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Cuttack: Despite directives issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) asking the local administration not to allow garbage dumping at Mahanadi and Kathajodi river beds, disposal of waste and building construction debris continues unabated in Cuttack.
Tractors and trucks can be seen dumping heaps of garbage on the river bed at regular intervals which has now sparked pollution threat. As per allegations, vehicles of the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) and private contractors are dumping solid waste and debris which has led to resentment among environmentalists.
“The NGT had given a detailed directive on the issue in October 16, 2017. It clearly stated no garbage or building and construction materials can be dumped at Mahanadi and Kathajodi river bed,” said environmentalist, Biswajit Mohanty.
Following the NGT order, the administration had earlier installed sign boards asking people to refrain from dumping waste in river bed. However, directives are being openly flouted in the city.
“The NGT had directed the Collector and the CMC to dump garbage elsewhere instead of the river bed. Dumping of waste will cause pollution to ground water and residents of low lying areas will be affected. The administration has turned a blind eye to such issues,” said convener of the Mahanagar Nagarik Manch, Chittaranjan Mohanty.
On the other hand, Cuttack Municipal Commissioner Bikash Mohapatra stated that the civic body is not dumping solid waste or any other items.
“The CMC is not dumping any garbage in the river bed. But as construction debris were found at the spot, we will take steps to stop such activities,” Mohapatra added.
Expressing similar views, CMC Mayor Minakshi Behera assured that concerned department officials will be asked to ensure that dumping of any waste materials is stopped immediately.
