Public anger has flared once again over the discharge of wastewater from the Ghausia Street sewage pumping station into the Sarabi River. The Sarabi River Horata Samithi (SRH) is contemplating filing a complaint with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) due to ongoing environmental damage.
The river has been severely polluted, turning it into a virtual sewer due to continuous drainage discharge. This contamination has rendered many local wells unusable, creating a significant drinking water crisis and a foul-smelling environment. The stagnant sewage also contributes to increased mosquito breeding, posing further health risks.
Local frustration is directed at the Town Municipal Council (TMC) and local officials, who are accused of failing to address technical issues at the pumping station. The station, which operates with limited motor capacity due to a 100HP transformer, struggles to manage the large volume of wastewater, especially during the rainy season. Attempts to use additional motors without upgrading the transformer have been thwarted by bureaucratic delays.
Residents also allege that workers at the station often shut down motors to cut diesel costs, resulting in illegal sewage discharge. Compounding the problem, the municipality’s recent decision to bill residents for water, despite the ongoing sewage crisis, has further fueled discontent.
Councillor Qaiser Mohtsham stated that efforts were previously made to provide free water, but municipal changes and new billing mandates have since taken effect. He assured that the new municipal body would work towards providing free water to affected households.
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