Ganga's Plight: Half of UP Industries Flagrantly Violate Environmental Norms, Report Reveals

The sacred waters of the Ganga, a lifeline for millions, are facing an unprecedented threat from industrial negligence in Uttar Pradesh. A recent and damning report, submitted by the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), has unveiled a shocking reality: a staggering 50% of industrial units inspected along the river are openly flouting crucial environmental norms.

This widespread non-compliance paints a grim picture for the health of India's holiest river and casts a shadow over ongoing rejuvenation efforts.

The inspection, which formed the first phase of a critical state-wide assessment, covered a thousand industrial units situated in the catchment areas of the Ganga across 25 districts of Uttar Pradesh.

These industries, classified as either "red" (highly polluting) or "orange" (moderately polluting), were scrutinized for their adherence to environmental regulations. The findings are deeply troubling, revealing a pervasive disregard for the law and the environment.

Among the primary violations identified were non-functional or inadequately maintained Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs).

These essential facilities are designed to purify industrial waste before it is discharged, yet many were found to be either entirely defunct or operating far below optimal capacity. The consequence? The direct, unchecked discharge of untreated industrial effluents into local drains and, ultimately, into the Ganga itself.

Furthermore, a significant number of units were found to be operating without the requisite 'consent to operate' from the UPPCB, indicating a fundamental breach of regulatory framework. Lapses in online monitoring systems, designed to provide real-time data on effluent quality, also contributed to the overall picture of non-compliance.

This report comes in response to an urgent directive issued by the NGT in August 2023.

The tribunal, expressing grave concern over the "alarming levels of pollution" in the Ganga resulting from both industrial and municipal discharge, had explicitly ordered the UPPCB to identify non-compliant industries and initiate stringent action against them. The NGT has consistently underscored the imperative for all polluting industries to achieve "zero liquid discharge" and called for more robust management of industrial and sewage waste.

The implications of these findings are profound, particularly for the ambitious "Namami Gange" project.

This flagship initiative, launched by the central government, aims to effectively abate pollution, conserve, and rejuvenate the national river. The persistent environmental violations by industries directly undermine the project's goals, highlighting a significant challenge in achieving a clean and healthy Ganga.

The UPPCB has assured the NGT that strict punitive measures are on the horizon for all non-compliant units.

This includes the issuance of closure notices and the imposition of substantial environmental compensation, intended to penalize polluters and deter future violations. As the second phase of inspections gets underway, targeting even more industrial units, the spotlight remains firmly on Uttar Pradesh's industrial sector and its responsibility towards one of India's most revered natural treasures.

The fight to save the Ganga from industrial pollution is far from over, and this report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for robust enforcement and unwavering commitment.