Buddha nullah's pollution to be tackled permanently Punjab CM Mann

Chandigarh, Oct 31 (PTI) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said finding a permanent solution to the long-standing 'Buddha nullah' issue in Ludhiana is among the government's top priorities to ensure that pollution does not impact public health and the environment.

     Mann announced a special high-level committee, led by environmentalist and Rajya Sabha MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal. According to an official statement, the chief minister directed the panel to submit a comprehensive report within 15 days after consulting residents, industrialists, dairy-sector representatives, and administrative officials.

     Chairing a high-level meeting to review the prevailing situation of 'Buddha nullah', Mann said the government is determined to free this historic water body from pollution and restore its pristine glory. He said, "The people of Punjab have every right to clean water and a pollution-free environment. These are not privileges but fundamental rights of every citizen, and no compromise will be made on them. The government will not allow the health of people and the environment to be held hostage to pollution."

     The committee will also include the secretary, local government; representatives of the industries department; the Punjab Pollution Control Board; Ludhiana police; two representatives of the dairy complex; and other concerned stakeholders.

     Mann said the problem of 'Buddha nullah' requires a comprehensive, coordinated and permanent solution backed by strong political will.

     He said the contamination of 'Buddha nullah' has serious implications for public health and the environment, making its restoration an urgent priority for Ludhiana and surrounding areas.

(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)