PAC Calls for Urgent Action on Water Pollution in Gujarat

Gandhinagar: The state’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has raised significant concerns over the escalating levels of pollution in Gujarat’s rivers and water bodies, urging the government to implement a robust, permanent mechanism for monitoring and addressing water contamination. In its recent report presented to the state assembly, the PAC, led by a senior BJP Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), highlighted the critical need for immediate and sustained efforts to safeguard the state’s water resources.

The PAC’s report underscores the pressing issue of water pollution, which has reached alarming levels in several of the state’s rivers and reservoirs. The committee expressed deep apprehension about the deteriorating quality of water, noting that the contamination poses severe risks to public health, agriculture, and the overall ecosystem. The report draws attention to the various sources of pollution, including industrial effluents, untreated sewage, and agricultural runoff, which collectively contribute to the degradation of water quality across Gujarat. According to the report, the current measures to control pollution are inadequate and lack the necessary enforcement and monitoring mechanisms. The PAC emphasised the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy that not only addresses the existing pollution but also prevents future contamination. This includes stricter regulations on industrial discharges, improved sewage treatment facilities, and sustainable agricultural practices to minimise chemical runoff.

In light of the findings, the PAC has recommended the establishment of a permanent framework dedicated to the continuous monitoring and management of water pollution. The committee suggested that this framework should involve multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, local bodies, industries, and civil society organisations, to ensure a coordinated and effective response to the issue. It also called for the adoption of advanced technologies and scientific methods for regular water quality assessment and pollution source tracking. Furthermore, the PAC advocated for increased public awareness and community involvement in water conservation and pollution control efforts. The committee highlighted the importance of educating citizens about the impact of water pollution and encouraging sustainable practices at the grassroots level. It also recommended that the government launch public awareness campaigns and educational programmes to foster a culture of environmental responsibility.

The PAC’s report places significant responsibility on the state government to take immediate and decisive action to address water pollution. It criticised the lack of accountability and transparency in the current system and urged the government to prioritise water management and pollution control in its policy agenda. The committee stressed that protecting the state’s water resources is not only an environmental imperative but also a social and economic necessity, given the reliance of many communities on these water bodies for drinking water, agriculture, and livelihoods.

The committee also recommended that the government allocate sufficient funds for water pollution control initiatives and ensure their effective utilisation. It called for regular audits and reviews of these initiatives to assess their impact and make necessary adjustments to achieve desired outcomes. As Gujarat faces increasing challenges related to water pollution, the PAC’s recommendations serve as a critical call to action for the state government. By establishing a permanent monitoring framework and fostering greater public participation, Gujarat can take significant steps towards safeguarding its water resources and ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for its residents.