Why in news?
On 15 October 2025 the National Green Tribunal (NGT) directed the pollution control boards of Himachal Pradesh and Haryana and the deputy commissioner of Sirmaur district to submit detailed reports on pollution in the Markanda River. The order responds to allegations that industries in the Kala Amb industrial area discharge untreated effluents into the river, threatening a waterway revered by local communities.
Background
The Markanda River, historically called Aruna, rises in the Shivalik foothills near Sirmaur in Himachal Pradesh. It flows south through Haryana before joining the Ghaggar River, which some archaeologists link to the ancient Sarasvati. The river irrigates fertile plains divided into Khadir (flood‑plain) and Bangar (upland) zones and is considered holy by residents.
- Tributary of the Ghaggar: The Markanda’s 130 km course winds through forested hills and agricultural lands before merging with the Ghaggar. It supports rice, wheat and sugar‑cane cultivation.
- Cultural significance: Local legends associate the river with sage Markandeya, and temples along its banks draw pilgrims.
- Industrial hub: In recent decades the nearby Kala Amb industrial estate has attracted paper, pharmaceutical and metal‑processing units. Allegations have surfaced that some factories discharge wastewater into seasonal streams that feed the Markanda.
NGT’s directions
The NGT’s 15 October order seeks to identify pollution sources and ensure accountability:
- State pollution boards must inspect all drains and outlets emptying into the river and test effluent samples for compliance with discharge standards.
- Authorities must verify whether units connect to the common effluent treatment plant (CETP) or have zero‑liquid‑discharge systems. The tribunal also asked officials to report on ownership of river‑bank lands.
- The deputy commissioner of Sirmaur must file an action plan outlining how sludge and treated wastewater are transported and whether unauthorised dumps exist.
The tribunal’s intervention aims to protect a culturally significant river and ensure industries adhere to environmental norms. Its findings will guide further remedial measures, including penalties or closure of non‑compliant units.
Source: TOI