BIRGUNJ: Once a lifeline for the people of Birgunj, the Sirsiya River has now become a curse due to escalating pollution levels.
For years, the river served as a vital water source, but the industrial activities along the Parsa-Bara area have led to the discharge of pollutants into its waters, transforming it into a putrid stream.
The foul odor emanating from the river has become unbearable for the locals.
Krishna Kumar Kanu from Chapkaiya of Birgunj reminisces, “We used to bathe in the Sirsiya River, wash our clothes and utensils on its banks, but…” he trails off, “…it has become nearly impossible to even stand near the riverbank due to the horrendous smell. We must cover our noses to endure it.”
Subash Mahato from Birgunj Metropolis-9 shares similar sentiments, “During our childhood, we used to swim and play in the Sirsiya River. Now, it’s nothing but a sludgy mess emitting a foul stench.”
Moreover, the river has lost its religious and cultural significance.
With pollution pervading its waters, it no longer remains a sacred site for festivals like Chhath.
Mahato laments the lack of interest shown by elected representatives in addressing this pressing environmental issue.
The pollution has severely impacted agriculture, aquatic life, and vegetation along the riverbanks. Originating from Ramban in west Simara, Bara, the Sirsiya River flows through Birgunj, Parsa, before reaching Raxaul, India.
Waste from industries including tanneries, distilleries, textile factories, ghee production units, and soap manufacturers is indiscriminately dumped into its waters.
Villages along the corridor and nearby areas such as Simara, Bakuliya, Lohusanda, Ramuli, Sagardina, Rampur Tokani, Chhatapipara, Nitanpur, Gamhargawa, Behara, Baluwa, Sirsiya, Tajpur, Bhaluwi, Ramgadhwa, Parwanipur, Ramban, Ramgadhwa, Bindabasini, Ranighat, Ashokbatika, and Chapkaiya are the worst affected by the pollution.
Thirteen years ago, locals staged protests at the district administration office to draw attention to the deteriorating condition of the Sirsiya River.
Consequently, a river monitoring committee was formed, which attributed the pollution to industries operating along the riverbank.
Assistant Chief District Officer Shiva Prasad Lamsal has assured that the office will take action against those responsible for the pollution.
However, residents from numerous villages await environmental justice, and it remains to be seen how the concerned authorities will respond to this crisis.
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