Social and environmental activist Tejasvi Minhas has raised serious concerns over the worsening pollution in the Bist Doab Canal distributary that flows through Jalandhar. In a representation to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Minhas has demanded an immediate inspection and comprehensive clean-up of the water body, which has turned into a dumping ground for pollutants, effluents, and plastic waste.
Once a Clean Water Channel, Now an Eyesore
Historically, the canal—popularly known as the DAV College 'nahar'—was a clean water source where people used to bathe. However, over the years, rampant urbanisation and indiscriminate dumping of waste along its banks have severely degraded its condition. The canal now passes through several localities including Gadaipur, Maqsudan, Mithu Basti, Basti Bawa Khel, and Gakhlan, and is considered one of the most polluted stretches in the district.
Allegations of Untreated Sewage and Industrial Effluents
In his representation, Minhas alleged that large quantities of garbage, plastic, and polythene have accumulated in the canal. He also pointed out that untreated sewage from nearby residential areas and possibly industrial effluents are being discharged directly into the watercourse. This contamination poses serious risks to crops, groundwater, public health, and the environment, especially since the canal is part of an important irrigation network under the state's surface water project.
Minhas warned that using such polluted water for agricultural purposes could contaminate the food chain, affecting the health of consumers.
Demands for Joint Inspection and Strict Action
The activist has called for a joint inspection of the entire stretch of the canal, scientific testing of water samples, identification of pollution sources, removal of accumulated waste, and strict action against violators. He has also demanded accountability and long-term measures to restore and protect the watercourse.
The representation has been marked to multiple authorities, including the Punjab Pollution Control Board, Central Pollution Control Board, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Water Resources Department, Municipal Corporation Jalandhar, and the district administration.
Minhas urged the Chief Minister to ensure a comprehensive inspection and immediate clean-up to prevent further environmental and health hazards.
