Lok Sabha Debates
Regarding The Need To Stop Further Flow Of Sewage From Rourkela Steel Plant To ... on 24 August, 2005
an> Title : Regarding the need to stop further flow of Sewage from Rourkela Steel Plant to river Koel and to supply potable drinking water to the Steel township.
SHRI JUAL ORAM (SUNDERGARH): Sir, I want to raise the following important matter of my area.
The growing pollution of water of River Koel has caused a great concern for the people living in and around Rourkela Township. The flow of sewage water and non-treated effluent from Rourkela Steel Plant is causing major pollution in the river water. This river is the only source of water which the people are using for drinking purposes and for other activities of their day-to-day life. This has given rise to a great controversy relating to the availability of pure drinking water in the city and in this area. It is unfortunate that the steel plant continues to discharge its sewage water and non-treated effluents into the river, flouting the State Pollution Control Board's directive.
MR. CHAIRMAN : You are a very senior Member. Why do you read it? You can hand it over.
SHRI JUAL ORAM : Sir, I am reading the text only.
MR. CHAIRMAN: Your submission will be taken as much valid as you say it in the House, if it is handed over.
SHRI JUAL ORAM : Sir, if you say, I can lay it also. I am reading it.
MR. CHAIRMAN: I want to save time. There are a number of other Members also who want to speak.
SHRI JUAL ORAM : Knowing fully well that the sewage treatment plant and effluent treatment plant of Rourkela Steel Plant remained defunct for the last few years, the Plant authority is not repairing it and allowing the flow of sewage to the River Koel through its main drain in Sector 16 and via the Deogaon Drainage.
As per the Water Act of 1974, the flow of sewage water effluent of any plant cannot be allowed to flow directly to any river since it carries the high risk of polluting the river and causing danger to human lives and other animals.
Unless immediate steps are taken to stop the flow of sewage and non-treated effluent of Rourkela Steel Plant, it will cause serious health hazards to the residents of the area, which includes the families of the employees of the Rourkela Steel Plant. As such, I demand the intervention of the Union Minister of Environment and Forests as well as the Union Government to stop this type of anti-people activity.