Despite official functions and pledges marking World Environment Day, residents of Baijnath have raised alarms over the deteriorating state of local water channels, alleging they have been turned into dumping grounds for plastic waste, garbage and empty liquor bottles.
Seeking immediate intervention, locals approached The Tribune, urging the authorities to restore the water bodies and halt further environmental degradation.
Residents pointed out a stark contrast between high-profile conservation campaigns and reality. While senior officials and public representatives regularly stress environmental protection in speeches, basic civic issues remain ignored. Currently, several channels passing through the town are choked with non-biodegradable waste, obstructing natural water flow and creating severe unhygienic conditions.
Locals warned that the crisis could worsen during the upcoming monsoon, as blocked channels risk severe waterlogging and contamination. Environmentalists have echoed these concerns, noting that indiscriminate dumping threatens local biodiversity and disrupts the regional ecological balance.
Demand for action
To resolve the crisis, residents are demanding — a comprehensive, immediate cleanliness drive, regular monitoring of water bodies, strict penalties for littering and installation of warning signboards and adequate dustbins at vulnerable spots.
Official response
When contacted, Rahul Dhiman, Executive Engineer, Jal Shakti Department, Baijnath, stated that while his department regularly cleans the channels, public cooperation remains a major hurdle.
“The department regularly undertakes cleaning work, but public cooperation is equally important,” Dhiman said. He added that the Municipal Council must intensify awareness efforts and take steps to discourage residents from disposing of waste in water channels.
However, residents maintain that environmental protection must move beyond ceremonial observances and speeches. They stressed that meaningful grassroots action is vital if the objectives of World Environment Day are to be realised in both letter and spirit.
