BIRGUNJ: Efforts to clean the Sirsiya River in Birgunj have been stepped up ahead of the Chhath festival, with the government prioritizing pollution control and environmental protection.
The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies has taken the initiative to intensify river-cleaning efforts and control industrial pollution. Industries operating in the area have been instructed to address the problem of chemical waste and untreated industrial wastewater being discharged into the river.
The government, concerned agencies and local authorities have stepped up efforts to ensure that devotees can perform Chhath rituals and offer prayers in a clean and safe environment.
The Department of Industries has already issued a directive instructing industries not to discharge untreated wastewater into the river. It also announced plans for joint monitoring and inspections.
Similarly, an all-party and multi-stakeholder meeting chaired by Chief District Officer Bhola Dahal made five decisions aimed at controlling pollution and improving waste management along the Sirsiya River.
The meeting directed industries in the industrial corridor to operate their wastewater treatment plants at full capacity around the clock and refrain from discharging untreated, chemically contaminated water into the river.
The meeting also prioritized a feasibility study for establishing a common wastewater treatment plant for small and medium-sized industries. Other decisions included exploring alternative drainage arrangements to prevent municipal sewage from entering the river and establishing a river conservation fund with the participation of all three levels of government for its long-term protection.
Action taken against 12 polluting industries
The government has previously taken action against industries found violating environmental standards in connection with pollution of the Sirsiya River.
According to a public report, wastewater samples from 12 industries operating near the river were found to have violated environmental standards. Authorities subsequently decided to impose a total fine of Rs 1.2 million on the industries.
The latest government initiative aims to address river pollution through sustained measures rather than limiting cleanup efforts to the Chhath festival.
Authorities have emphasized the need for regular industrial monitoring, effective operation of wastewater treatment facilities and legal action against industries that violate environmental regulations.
Sustained monitoring and effective implementation of these measures will be essential to ensuring the campaign’s long-term success. Beyond providing devotees with a clean environment for Chhath rituals, the initiative is also expected to help preserve the Sirsiya River’s natural ecosystem and protect the health of communities living along its banks.
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