The State Pollution Control Board (PCB) has taken cognizance of non adherence of defined parameters for Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) by Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam Limited (SJPNL) and Jal Shakti Vibhag, and there is always a fear of contamination of water bodies, stated Chairman, Pollution Control Board, Sanjay Gupta in a communiqué issued here today. As per the directions of National Green Tribunal (NGT), action Plans for the rejuvenation of polluted stretches of few rivers viz: River Sirsa, near Baddi, River Markanda, River Beas, Ashwani Khad, River Giri and Pabbar were formulated in 2019-20 and SJPNL & JSV were required to expedite the works as per the directions of NGT, which should be conformed with the guidelines of NGT, he affirmed.
Jal Shakti Vibhag is operating 70 STPs with 99.97 MLD capacity, in different parts of the State covering major urban areas. Besides, the SJPNL has six STPs with installed capacity of 26.06 MLD, which needs to be upgraded. However, the rejuvenation of the polluted river stretch of Ashwani Khad is being done as per the orders of National Green Tribunal (NGT). The bio remediation process of catchment area of Ashwani Khad also needs to be accelerated to reduce the concentration of pollutants, as well. The Board is regularly inspecting, monitoring and conducting sampling of treated waste water, and taking regulatory action as and when required, said Sanjay Gupta. Gupta said that the directions have been issued to the respective departments regarding improper operation and functioning of these non-complying STPs and to expedite the process of modification, up-gradation, expansion and construction of the plants on priority. The operations of the existing STPs needs to be improved and expedited in augmentation of sewage management system which is impacting water quality of rivers and natural aquatic resources of the State. Review meetings will soon be held with the concerned department, said the Chairman. The Board has also urged the Principal Secretary, Urban Development and Secretary, Jal Shakti Vibhag to look into the matter urgently.
