The check-dams and outdated bunds across several streams and rivulets in the district have turned dumping grounds for solid waste, blocking the flow of water. Floating wastes — mostly plastic bottles, carry bags and other non-biodegradable substances — have piled up in the streams at many places.
The Poonoor River and the Kuttiyadi River are the worst hit with the increased presence of bunds and check-dams. The Poonoor River has 15 bunds in various stretches, where the water flow is maintained with the occasional cleaning drive by the local river protection committees.
River protection committees have called for a campaign to remove the plastic waste before the onset of summer.
P.H. Thaha, president of the Save Poonur Puzha Forum, says the forum has been carrying out voluntary cleaning drive in selected areas with the cooperation of the locals as there has been no response from any government departments for the cause. “On Sunday, our members undertook massive cleaning drives near two bunds at Chelavur and Pooladikkunnu and removed heaps of non-degradable waste from the river.”
River Management Fund
Mr. Thaha alleges that the River Management Fund in the district is rarely used for cleaning up the rivers. “The only hope now is an ongoing survey on the condition of various rivers and the pollution threats. At the end of the survey, we hope that there will be some positive feedback,” he says.
Activists of the Mambuzha River Protection Committee led by T.K.A. Azeez also attests that minimal government fund is used to clear the choked stretches of the river. Often, it is the commitment of the local activists that helps to maintain a healthy flow of water and prevent encroachment attempts, they add.
Groundwater recharging
P.S. Harikumar, senior principal scientist with the Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM), points out that the polluted water in the bund area will naturally percolate into the groundwater and gradually contaminate the nearby potable water sources. Only the scientifically constructed bunds will contribute to groundwater recharge and the others will harm the nature, he reminds.
