The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has identified approximately 1,500 factories in Loni, located on the eastern edge of Ghaziabad near Delhi, that are contributing to air and water pollution. Among these, more than 500 units are allegedly discharging untreated effluents that eventually reach the Yamuna River.
Fresh Enforcement Drive Targets Illegal Units
The identification marks the start of a renewed enforcement campaign linked to efforts to reduce pollution in the Yamuna. According to UPPCB officials, most of these units operate illegally and are involved in activities such as cloth dyeing, electroplating, and metal finishing. The board has decided to first target factories that release untreated wastewater into local drains.
UPPCB regional officer Ankit Singh stated: “Chemical-laden wastewater from these units is discharged into local drains without treatment. The wastewater then flows through the drainage network before reaching the Yamuna. Around 1,500 polluting factories have been identified in Loni. Of these, over 500 units are contributing to water pollution.”
Coordinated Action with Power Utility and District Administration
To take action against these units, the pollution board has launched a joint campaign with the power utility and the district administration. Teams have been deployed to inspect and act against identified factories. Coordination is also underway with the Electricity Department to ensure that factories found violating norms do not obtain power connections again without complying with prescribed standards. Authorities have warned of strict action against violators.
The crackdown comes amid wider concerns over pollution in Loni after reports highlighted the area’s severe environmental conditions. Since March, the UPPCB and district administration have intensified actions in the region. Officials reported that nearly 300 factories have been shut during this period, with their electricity connections disconnected.
Residents Report Persistent Problems
However, residents note that the problem often returns. According to local people, some units resume operations after a brief shutdown, preventing a lasting solution to the pollution crisis.
Expanding Focus to Hindon River
The pollution board is now preparing to widen its focus beyond Loni. Officials plan to identify industrial units polluting the Hindon River, which ultimately joins the Yamuna. This move is based on the view that cleaning the Yamuna will remain difficult unless pollution entering through the Hindon is also addressed.
As part of this exercise, the UPPCB has sought details of electricity connections of industrial units operating in Ghaziabad city and the Trans-Hindon zone. Besides Loni, authorities have flagged concerns over illegal industrial activity in areas including Hindon Vihar, New Hindon Vihar, Kanawani Doob area, Arthala, Nandgram, Sihani, Meerut Road, Mainapur, and Duhai.
With enforcement now expanding from factory identification to power disconnections and coordinated field action, officials are attempting to tackle pollution at its source.
