Surplus Water Release Turns Hosur’s River Into Toxic Frothy Mess

A section of the South Pennai River near Tamil Nadu's Hosur has been transformed into a frothy expanse of toxic foam, sparking environmental and public health concerns, NDTV reported.

The situation is attributed to the release of surplus water from the Kellavarapalli Dam, triggered by heavy rainfall in Karnataka.

Visuals circulating on social media show the river's surface engulfed in thick froth, with foam spreading to surrounding areas and carried by gusts of wind. The spectacle has alarmed local residents and environmentalists alike.

Liquid wastes have been released during the recent rains by factories which has contributed to the toxic build up, authorities suspect.

Professor Sacchida Nand Tripathi, Dean of the Kotak School of Sustainability, identified "excessive organic loads from industrial waste and untreated sewage" as the primary drivers of the frothing. "This foam depletes oxygen levels in the water, leading to aquatic die-offs and disrupting the river's ecological balance," he explained, highlighting the added risks of waterborne diseases for nearby communities.

Similarly in October, Hosur had grappled with toxic foam. The latest incident caused significant disruption, with froth-laden water submerging a bridge on the Hosur-Nandimangalam road.

An official from Hosur, speaking anonymously to Hindustan Times, noted that the dam's water is no longer used for drinking purposes due to severe pollution. "The toxic foam is a stark reminder of the pollution levels and the urgent need for effective waste management and regulation," they added.

This recurring environmental crisis calls for stricter enforcement of pollution control measures and cross-border cooperation to address the source of contaminants affecting shared water systems.