Chandigarh: Senior Congress leader and AICC secretary Pargat Singh has lauded the National Green Tribunal's (NGT) intervention regarding uranium contamination in Punjab's groundwater, describing it as a pivotal move for public health and accountability. The NGT issued notices to both the Punjab and central governments following alarming reports of elevated uranium levels in drinking water sources across several districts, as highlighted by a Times of India report. The Times of India

Singh emphasized that this issue transcends environmental concerns, labeling it a "serious health threat affecting thousands of families." He called for immediate actions, including the release of funds under the Jal Jeevan Mission, installation of water purification systems, comprehensive medical screenings, and transparent publication of water quality data. Singh stressed that any delays or excuses from the authorities would be unacceptable.

Furthermore, Singh welcomed the NGT's order for the permanent closure and dismantling of Malbros Distillery in Zira, following a prolonged agitation by a coalition of 40 villages against pollution of land, air, and water. He viewed this as a testament to the power of community resilience and underscored the need for continuous vigilance, stringent enforcement, and comprehensive coverage of all affected areas to safeguard public health and the environment.

In conclusion, Singh called for immediate medical camps in the affected regions, real-time water quality monitoring with public dashboards, stronger penalties for polluters, and the establishment of a dedicated state-level task force to coordinate further action with the Centre and NGT. He asserted that Punjab requires justice, not just sympathy, and that clean water must be guaranteed for all its residents.

Source: Times of India

Addressing Uranium Contamination in Punjab's Groundwater

The recent revelation of elevated uranium levels in Punjab's groundwater has raised serious concerns about public health and environmental safety. The National Green Tribunal's (NGT) intervention, prompted by a Times of India report, has brought this issue to the forefront, urging both state and central governments to take immediate and decisive action.

Uranium contamination in drinking water is not merely an environmental issue; it poses significant health risks to thousands of families across the affected districts. The Congress party, through leaders like Pargat Singh, has called for urgent measures, including the release of funds under the Jal Jeevan Mission, installation of water purification systems, and comprehensive medical screenings for residents in contaminated areas.

The situation in Zira, where a community-led agitation led to the NGT's order for the closure of Malbros Distillery, highlights the importance of citizen involvement and accountability in addressing pollution. This case serves as a model for other affected regions, demonstrating that collective action can lead to meaningful change.

For GD Water Consult, this crisis underscores the critical need for real-time water quality monitoring systems, transparent data sharing, and robust regulatory frameworks to prevent and address contamination issues. Implementing these measures can help ensure safe drinking water for all and protect public health from the dangers of waterborne pollutants.

As we continue to monitor the developments in Punjab, it is imperative that all stakeholders—government agencies, environmental organizations, and citizens—collaborate to tackle this pressing issue and secure a healthier future for the state's residents.