CRUISE SEWAGE ALLEGATION RAISES GANGA CONCERNS

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH: A fresh controversy over pollution of holy Ganga river has surfaced in Varanasi after the allegedly showing untreated sewage discharge from the Vivekananda cruise into the river went viral on social media. The incident, where the alleged discharge occurred near the ghats of varanasi, when it was reportedly recorded by the local boatmen in recent days, has raised a serious concern about environmental norms, who is responsible, what exactly was released into the river, why such lapse has occurred and how waste disposal system on luxury cruise being monitored.

According to local boatmen who recorded the video, the cruiser was seen releasing dirty water directly into Ganga. They allege that this action is hurting religious sentiments and is also posing threat to cleanliness of the river.The boatmen also expressed their anger, claiming that small boat operators face strict scrutiny and large cruise operators often escape rigorous checks.

After acknowledging the matter, Nagar Nigam has constituted a special investigation committee to examine the cruise’s waste disposal system, compliance with environmental regulations and the authenticity of the viral video. The DM has also ordered an immediate inquiry, stating that no compromise will be made on the sanctity of the Ganga.

On the other hand, the cruise operator has denied all the allegations, stating that only normal water was released into the river and the cruise is equipped with a proper disposal system which adheres to all environmental standards.