Rajya Sabha MP Calls for Urgent Action to Clean Buddha Nullah in Punjab

Rajya Sabha MP and environmentalist Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal held a meeting with Punjab officials addressing the severe pollution in Buddha Nullah. He emphasized the need for strict actions and discussed its harmful impact on the Sutlej River and residents. The call for a CBI investigation was also supported.

By Arun Kumar

Rajya Sabha MP and environmentalist Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal convened a crucial meeting on Wednesday with administrative officials in Punjab to address the escalating pollution in Buddha Nullah.

The MP stressed the necessity of stringent measures to ensure Buddha Nullah's cleanliness, speaking directly to administrative officials at the DC office. Seechewal also committed to personally advancing the cleaning efforts. In a post-meeting briefing with journalists, he highlighted various concerns, including pollution from local dairies and the deteriorating state of Buddha Nullah.

Ludhiana's Buddha Nullah, a 14-km stream, is severely contaminated with toxic effluents and approximately 200 MLD of untreated sewage pouring into the Sutlej River. The Nullah is a major pollution source for the Sutlej River. In 2020, the state government allocated Rs 650 crore for a rejuvenation project. According to Ludhiana Mayor Balkar Singh Sandhu, Buddha Nullah accounts for 90% of Sutlej River's pollution, impacting over two crore people in Punjab and Rajasthan.

Seechewal endorsed a CBI investigation recommended by the Assembly Committee to probe any irregularities in the rejuvenation project. He drew parallels with the Kali Bein rivulet, noting Buddha Nullah's historical significance and future potential for cleanliness under Guru Nanak Dev Ji's influence.

The MP also reviewed the status of treatment plants installed to combat pollution and called for the shutdown of industrial plants responsible for environmental harm. He expressed grave concern over the health implications for residents in Ludhiana, Rajasthan, and Punjab due to the pollution.

(With inputs from agencies.)