Barmer MP Ummedaram Beniwal took direct action on Saturday. He led a Central Pollution Control Board investigation team to the Ramky industrial waste treatment plant in Balotara. This inspection addressed mounting environmental fears in the Balotara-Barmer region.
MP Confronts Officials Over Inaction
During the visit, Beniwal did not hold back. He confronted officials from the Rajasthan Pollution Control Board. He questioned their failure to act. The MP stated they were fully aware of chemical waste being dumped into the Luni River and nearby agricultural land.
Major Lapses Found at Treatment Plant
The inspection revealed serious problems at the facility. Beniwal pointed out critical technical and operational failures. The plant's waste treatment capacity was insufficient. Its operations were irregular and unreliable.
Authorities also noted the absence of proper storage facilities. There was no development of a mandatory green belt around the site. These shortcomings are having a direct and harmful impact.
Groundwater and Farmland at Risk
Inadequate treatment is causing widespread contamination. Beniwal issued a clear warning. The insufficient processing of waste is polluting the local groundwater supply. It is also damaging precious farmland in the area.
The MP demanded strict and immediate action. He called for penalties against the operating company. He also insisted on accountability for the responsible officials who allowed this situation to develop.
Call for Central Government Probe
Beniwal reminded everyone of his earlier efforts. He had already requested a high-level investigation from the Central Government's Ministry of Forest, Environment, and Climate Change. This request focused on the escalating pollution crisis in the region.
The current CPCB field investigation is a direct result of these concerns. The team is examining pollution from chemical waste. Their focus includes Barmer's crude oil extraction zones and the industrial units concentrated in Balotara.
Demand for a Factual Report
The MP urged the CPCB officials to do their job thoroughly. He emphasized the need for a completely factual and unbiased investigation report. The truth of the situation must be documented without any compromise.
Review Meeting and Sample Collection
The plant inspection was just one part of a broader field investigation. The team is looking into pollution from various sources, including crude oil areas and industrial plants.
Following the site visit, officials held a review meeting. Representatives from both the Central and Rajasthan pollution control boards attended. As a key part of their inquiry, they collected water samples from the area. These samples will now undergo detailed laboratory analysis.
