In a decisive move to safeguard the waters of the Ganga, the Uttar Pradesh government and the state's Pollution Control Board have announced a mandatory shutdown of tanneries in Kanpur and other industrial units for a 24-day period. This action coincides with the upcoming Magh Mela, a significant religious congregation.
Key Dates and Implementation of the Closure Roster
The closure directive is part of a strict anti-pollution roster that will be enforced from December 31, 2025. The industrial units will remain shut throughout the duration of the Magh Mela, which is scheduled to run from January 3 to February 15, 2026. The 24-day closure window falls within this larger period.
Ajit Suman, an officer of the regional Pollution Control Board, confirmed the details. He emphasized that the roster targets not only tanneries but also other industries contributing to river pollution. The primary objective is to ensure the Ganga's water quality is maintained while millions of devotees take a holy dip during the mela.
Monitoring and Enforcement Measures
The responsibility of ensuring compliance lies squarely with the regional Pollution Control Board. Officials will actively monitor pollution levels in the river and keep a close watch on the industrial units to enforce the shutdown order.
Any unit found violating the mandatory closure will face strict punitive action, as per the official statement. This zero-tolerance approach underscores the administration's commitment to the cleanup drive for the Ganga, a perennial focus for both state and central governments.
Significance for Kanpur and the Ganga
Kanpur, a major leather processing hub, has historically been a significant point of industrial pollution entering the Ganga. The temporary closure of tanneries during sensitive periods like the Magh Mela is a recurring strategy to mitigate this impact.
This planned shutdown allows for a natural reduction in the discharge of industrial effluents, giving the river a much-needed respite. The success of such measures relies heavily on rigorous supervision and the willingness to penalize defaulters, setting a precedent for environmental accountability.
