Rourkela: Release of untreated effluents and drain water straight into the rivers has polluted the water bodies and led to a decline in the fish population, thereby causing a loss of livelihood for fishermen in riparian villages here. According to sources, hundreds of fishermen depend on rivers like Brahmani, Koel, and Sankha flowing through Steel City.
However, they are a worried lot nowadays with a sharp drop in fish catch from the rivers. They alleged that their livelihood has been seriously hit as their fish catch is dwindling by the day. The fishermen used to catch fishes like Boal (balia), Rohu, Catla (Bhakur), Sheula and prawns from these three rivers.
However, river pollution stands as a stumbling block for a good catch. Toxic and chemical effluents as well as solid waste and sewage of the city are being discharged into the Brahmani river through a large drain that runs from Civil Township to Balughat, Tarekela in the city. The wastewater of seven big hospitals in the city, as well as that of other establishments, is being discharged into the river without proper treatment.
However, the authorities are silent on the issue and have yet to take any steps to protect the rivers. Discharge of chemical and toxic effluents into the river is the reason behind a sharp fall in fish population, alleged a fisherwoman Archana Naik and her male counterparts Ajay Naik and Bipin Toppo living near the river banks. ‘Save River’ movement coordinator Gurupada Arabinda Swain said that rampant pollution in the rivers and the decline in fish population is a matter of serious concern and all should work in tandem to save these three rivers. When contacted, ADM, Rourkela Subhankar Mohapatra said the Rourkela Municipal Corporation has been taking a slew of measures to keep the rivers pollution free. He added that action will be taken if any organisation is found discharging chemical and toxic effluents into the rivers.
