Shimla Water Pollution Scandal: SJPN Fined ₹31.17 Lakh for Violating Norms
In a significant move to curb water pollution, the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB) has slapped a hefty fine of ₹31.17 lakh on Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam (SJPN) for polluting water bodies in Shimla town.
The HPSPCB took this stern action after conducting random sampling of water discharge from the sewage treatment plant at Golcha, Shimla. The findings revealed that the sewage discharge repeatedly violated prescribed pollution norms, indicating that the wastewater was not adequately treated before being released into the environment.
According to Anil Joshi, Secretary of HPSPCB, the board has been actively monitoring the sewage treatment plant’s operations and regularly collecting water samples from critical points. “Our random sampling at sensitive locations clearly showed that the treated wastewater exceeded permissible limits for suspended solids, biochemical oxygen demand, and chemical oxygen demand. This clearly indicates improper treatment before discharge,” Joshi said.
The board noted that SJPN has repeatedly violated the directives of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), prompting HPSPCB to impose the fine under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
The hefty penalty serves as a wake-up call for authorities to ensure proper wastewater management, especially in ecologically sensitive areas like Shimla. As water pollution remains a pressing concern, the onus now lies on SJPN to take corrective measures and adhere strictly to environmental standards to prevent further damage to Shimla’s water bodies.
