"MAHANANDA - RIVER OR A DRAIN"

MAHANANDA - RIVER OR A DRAIN

Water pollution is one of the major types of pollution. In present days it has been a global problem. Same problem is facing the river Mahananda of Siliguri. The day by day increase of dirt has transformed the river into a drain. Once transparent and clear water was seen with plenty of seasonal fishes dangling and dancing around. Now, scraps of vegetables, drain water from household, plastics, cans, toxic materials, bathing of animals and washing of clothes etc has changed the scenario of the city.

Natural water resources attracts population. River banks are densely populated, Mahananda not being the exceptional. People around are struggling to attain a high standard of living with economic and development growth. They utilize natural resources as a raw material. Consumerism in daily life has become alternative to the spirit of natural co-operation and saving of resources. Environmental Management is the most important as well as essential discipline, which is being negated.

Developmental processes cannot be successful until and unless the development of environment take place. In order to ensure a developed nation, participation of citizen in the growth of industries, agriculture, infrastructure build up; as well as concern towards environment is necessary.

River Mahananda is badly affected by the toxic pollutants but the hazardous water of the river is still being used by the people around. The contaminated water may cause bad results affecting the health of local people. Water borne diseases like viral hepatitis A, hepatitis E, rotavirus, diarrhoea, typhoid, cholera etc can affect the people around, as well as the children who plays in the bank of the river.