Ludhiana: Cases have been registered under serious penal sections against two major dairy operators on charges of illegally dumping waste and discharging contaminated water along the banks of the river.
This action was initiated based on a written complaint and an investigation report submitted by senior officials of the Ludhiana Urban Water and Wastewater Management Limited (LUWWM). On June 2, the Assistant Corporation Engineer (Zone-B) of LUWWM submitted an official complaint to the police administration.
The complaint stated that certain dairies situated along the banks of the Budha Dariya were blatantly flouting regulations. These dairy operators were discharging highly contaminated water and cow dung (dairy waste) generated at their premises directly into the Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) drainage system.
Accused Caught Red-Handed During Investigation
Inspections and on-the-ground investigations conducted by LUWWM officials exposed gross negligence on the part of two prominent dairies. The first accused has been identified as Manu Malhotra (dairy operator), and the second as Mani Katyal (dairy operator). The investigation team discovered that harmful waste material generated by both their dairies was being dumped directly into the drainage channel. This toxic waste is not only causing severe damage to the environment but is also rapidly contaminating the region’s water sources.
FIR Filed Under Environmental and Drainage Acts
Upon receiving the complaint from LUWWM, the police immediately initiated a preliminary inquiry. Once the allegations were substantiated, a case was registered against both dairy operators. Action is being taken in this matter under strict environmental protection regulations and drainage laws regarding the violation of these statutes.
Authorities Act to Save Budha Dariya from Pollution
Local residents point out that while projects worth crores of rupees are currently underway to clean up the Budha Dariya, these efforts are often undermined by the negligence of a few individuals. The administration’s firm stance in this matter has now created a stir among others involved in the illegal dumping of waste. The police have initiated further legal action in this matter and have launched a search for the accused.