Efforts to restore the Karala River, a crucial waterway and cultural landmark in Jalpaiguri, are gaining momentum as authorities announce two key initiatives: dredging the river and constructing a sewage treatment plant. This collaborative effort by the State Irrigation Department and the Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department aims to combat pollution and rejuvenate the river’s ecosystem.
The Karala River, stretching over 15 kilometres and flowing through several neighbourhoods, has suffered years of neglect. Unchecked garbage dumping and untreated sewage discharge have severely impacted its health. Known as the “lungs of Jalpaiguri,” the deteriorating condition of the river has raised concerns among environmentalists and residents, prompting swift action from local and state authorities.
The State Irrigation Department plans to dredge the river along the stretch from Jalpaiguri Government Engineering College to its confluence with the Teesta River. This section, identified as the most polluted, will undergo intensive cleaning to improve water flow and biodiversity. “We are preparing a detailed project report, which will soon be submitted for approval,” said Chief Engineer Krishnendu Bhowmik. The dredging project involves removing approximately 4.22 lakh tons of silt and clay, with depths ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 meters.
Simultaneously, the Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department is addressing the issue of untreated sewage inflow. Currently, 48 drains release untreated waste directly into the river. Chief Engineer of the Municipal Engineering Department, North Bengal, Chittaranjan Barman, outlined plans to consolidate these drains into two or three major channels connected to a proposed sewage treatment plant.
These initiatives mark a significant step toward restoring the Karala River’s ecological balance and cultural significance for the residents of Jalpaiguri.
