Bhaderwah Pollution: Section 144 Imposed to Curb Rising Water Pollution

In a bid to curb rising pollution in Bhaderwah, authorities have imposed Section 144 around water bodies, aiming to protect the pristine environment of this picturesque valley.

In a bid to combat rising pollution levels and protect the pristine water bodies of Bhaderwah, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). The picturesque Bhaderwah valley, often referred to as "mini-Kashmir," has been grappling with escalating pollution due to the absence of an efficient sewerage system.

Pollution Threatens Bhaderwah's Water Resources

The impact of pollution on the once crystal-clear water bodies, including the Neel Ganga river, has prompted local authorities to take decisive action. Acknowledging the severity of the issue, the Doda deputy commissioner has issued orders to book offenders under Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of four or more people in an area.

Strict Measures to Protect Water Bodies

Bhaderwah Additional Deputy Commissioner Dilmir Choudhary expressed the urgency of preserving Bhaderwah's precious water bodies. Despite efforts to educate and motivate people to refrain from polluting water bodies, no significant change in attitudes has been observed. As a result, strict action is being taken against offenders by imposing Section 144 of the CrPC.

Uncontrolled Dumping Degrades Water Quality

The valley, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and numerous water bodies, is witnessing a disturbing transformation. Streams such as Puneja Nallah, Halian, Haloon, Hanga, and the sacred Neel Ganga River are succumbing to unabated dumping of town waste, including non-biodegradable materials and human excrement. This uncontrolled dumping has severely degraded the water quality, posing a significant threat to aquatic life and disrupting aquatic ecosystems.

Locals and Activists Demand Action

Locals, religious bodies, and environmentalists have expressed serious concerns about the detrimental effects of pollution on these vital water resources. Tariq Pervaiz Shaphri, a social worker and environmentalist from Bhaderwah, warns that pollution in water bodies severely impacts aquatic animals and disrupts aquatic ecosystems. Religious structures along the banks of the Neel Ganga River, such as the historic Gupta Ganga temple and Markazi Jamia Masjid, are now overshadowed by the overpowering stench of contaminated water.

Call for Immediate Corrective Measures

Concerned citizens and activists have been urging immediate corrective measures, emphasizing the need for strict actions against offenders. Rashid Choudhary, a Bhaderwah-based social activist, highlights the repeated outbreak of mysterious illnesses and waterborne diseases in Bhaderwah valley and its neighboring areas as a wake-up call on the increasing pollution levels in the Neeru river and other water bodies. Vishwa Hindu Parishad state secretary Satish Kotwal expressed frustration over the alleged indifference of the authorities to the issue, stating that despite repeated requests, no concrete measures have been taken to save the sanctity of the sacred Neel Ganga river.

Conclusion

The imposition of Section 144 around water bodies in Bhaderwah reflects the urgent need to address the rising pollution levels that threaten the valley's pristine environment and the well-being of its inhabitants. By taking strict action against offenders and implementing effective waste management systems, authorities can work towards restoring the beauty and ecological balance of Bhaderwah's water bodies, preserving them for future generations.