Karnataka Directed By NGT To Address Thenpennai River Pollution

In Karnataka, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) southern bench has directed the government to submit an action plan within a month to control the discharge of untreated sewage and industrial effluents into the Thenpennai river. This directive comes pending the completion of new sewage treatment plants (STPs) scheduled for the end of December. The NGT expressed serious concern over the river’s condition, particularly the foaming, blackened water, and foul odor reported downstream in Tamil Nadu, highlighting the urgent need for remedial measures.

The NGT’s concern originated from a suo motu case initiated based on various news reports. Its order specifically noted that untreated domestic sewage and industrial waste from Bengaluru, primarily from Bellandur and Varthur lakes, is consistently being discharged into the river, causing significant pollution as it flows downstream into Tamil Nadu. Karnataka’s official report revealed that out of 531 industries located in the river’s catchment area, 11 were found to be non-compliant with existing environmental regulations. While plans are underway for 10 new STPs with a cumulative capacity of 313 MLD, only four have received administrative approval, and none are currently operational, underscoring a critical gap in waste treatment infrastructure.

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Tamil Nadu officials have consistently reported severe pollution of the Thenpennai as it enters their state. Instances of frothing, extensive hyacinth growth, and contamination of irrigation tanks near the Kelavarapalli dam in Hosur have been repeatedly cited. Tamil Nadu has formally urged the Karnataka government to prevent the discharge of untreated waste into the river and to significantly improve its pollution monitoring efforts. The NGT has stressed the urgency of interim pollution control measures, particularly with the monsoon season approaching Tamil Nadu, warning that delays in action would worsen the situation and impede river rejuvenation efforts.

Across Karnataka, the NGT’s firm directive underscores the urgent need for robust waste management and stringent environmental compliance. The mandated action plan and timely completion of sewage treatment plants are critical steps towards rejuvenating the Thenpennai river and ensuring the ecological health of the region shared with neighboring states.

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Karnataka Directed By NGT To Address Thenpennai River Pollution