NHRC Demands Report on Groundwater Contamination in Nashik
The National Human Rights Commission has initiated action regarding groundwater pollution in Dattanagar, Nashik, citing potential human rights violations.
NHRC has requested a report from Maharashtra's chief secretary on groundwater issues in Dattanagar.
Residents report health problems linked to contaminated borewell water.
Environmentalists are also pressing for action from the National Green Tribunal.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken significant action regarding groundwater contamination in Dattanagar, located near Nashik's Ambad industrial area. This decision escalates the situation from an environmental concern to a potential human rights issue, as the commission has requested a detailed report from Maharashtra's chief secretary, Rajesh Aggarwal, within a two-week timeframe.
The NHRC's involvement is crucial, as the reported pollution has serious implications for the health and livelihoods of local residents. Many individuals in Dattanagar and surrounding areas have reported various health issues, including skin irritations and rashes, after using borewell water that has recently changed color to a yellowish hue. The commission's statement highlighted that if the allegations regarding chemical-laden effluents from nearby factories contaminating groundwater are accurate, it raises significant human rights concerns.
Reports indicate that residents have been receiving contaminated water for approximately two months, leading to alarming situations where children have been advised to refrain from attending school. Families affected by this contamination are reportedly spending around Rs 5,000 each month on bottled drinking water, in addition to incurring substantial medical expenses due to health complications.
As the NHRC investigates, environmentalists have also approached the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Pune, seeking immediate action regarding the pollution. The NGT has requested reports from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board and local authorities, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability in addressing the contamination issue. This dual scrutiny from both the NHRC and NGT places additional pressure on authorities to respond effectively to the public health crisis.
The NHRC's intervention comes after The Times of India first reported complaints about contaminated borewell water in Dattanagar on September 30. Subsequent investigations revealed the presence of chromium in the groundwater, raising concerns about the long-term health risks for residents who rely on borewells for their daily water supply. As the situation develops, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and health of the affected communities in Nashik.
