Action plan launched to curb pollution in Kadambrayar, says Environment dept.

The Department of Environment has informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that a multi-pronged action plan has been launched to curb pollution of the Kadambrayar in Ernakulam.

The action plan was formulated by the district-level technical committee comprising representatives from the Irrigation department, Kerala State Pollution Control Board (PCB), and the Departments of Industries and Local Self Governments, along with the District Collector. Aimed at the rejuvenation of the Kadambrayar, the plan has been approved by the Central Pollution Control Board and is currently under implementation, the Environment department informed.

The key focus areas include cleaning the river by removing water hyacinth and silt, and ensuring minimum flow is maintained in the waterbody. The authorities will identify pollution sources such as industries, apartment complexes, hotels, waste dumping sites, and unauthorised discharges into the river. Steps will be taken to close down all such outlets.

The action plan includes augmenting infrastructure to curb the illegal discharge of untreated wastewater. It proposes the installation of sewage treatment plants, solid and liquid waste management facilities, and surveillance measures to prevent illegal dumping.

The committee has been regularly monitoring the progress of the action plan’s implementation. It has issued several directions to the departments concerned to take immediate action. Some projects were delayed due to the time taken to obtain administrative and technical sanctions.