PPCB Launches Review of Ludhiana Dyeing Units After Deadline Passes
The Punjab Pollution Control Board has started a crucial evaluation of Ludhiana's scattered dyeing units. This action follows the expiration of a December deadline. The deadline required these units to stop discharging toxic industrial waste into the city's sewage system.
For many years, untreated effluent from these dyeing operations has overwhelmed municipal sewage treatment plants. These treatment facilities were not designed to handle industrial chemicals. The polluted water ultimately flowed into the heavily contaminated Buddha Dariya stream.
In a final ultimatum, the PPCB ordered fifty-four identified units to make a choice. They must either adopt Zero Liquid Discharge technology or relocate outside Ludhiana's city limits.
The Shift Toward Zero Liquid Discharge
Official PPCB data reveals the industry is now fragmenting under environmental pressure. The transition for eleven large-scale and forty-three small-scale units shows mixed progress.
Among the large-scale units, two have successfully implemented ZLD systems. Two others have completely stopped wet processing activities. One owner has challenged the ZLD mandate in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Six units have submitted action plans to achieve compliance.
For the small-scale units, twelve have already closed or relocated. Four are currently shifting their operations. Three have adopted ZLD technology. Others have switched disposal methods or closed dyeing lines. Twenty-one units are under inspection to verify if they met the year-end target.
Accountability and Enforcement Measures
The PPCB is not relying on self-reporting alone. To combat rogue discharging, the board has imposed new requirements. Units found guilty of polluting the sewer system must now install CCTV cameras. They must also maintain strict records of waste transport.
Chief Engineer R K Ratra confirmed the board's current stance. While the deadline has passed, officials are in a consideration phase. They are assessing the physical progress of each unit. "We will check the status they have reached; only then can further action be taken," Ratra stated.
The board has already taken decisive action against other violators. Authorities moved to close twenty-five electroplating units for persistent violations.
Signs of Recovery for Buddha Dariya
Despite the ongoing industrial battle, the PPCB claims integrated efforts are yielding results. Water quality testing at Walipur shows marked improvement over the past twelve months. This is where Buddha Dariya merges with the Satluj River.
Rajya Sabha member Balbir Singh Seechewal continues to press for greater transparency. Officials remain optimistic about the future. They believe combining ZLD technology with stricter monitoring will prevent further contamination. The goal is to stop the "Black Stream" from polluting Punjab's water table.
