Chennai, July 1: Toxic foam accumulating in the South Pennai River near the Kelavarapalli Dam has raised serious concerns among farmers in Krishnagiri district. They are urging the Tamil Nadu and Karnataka governments to jointly investigate the pollution sources and take immediate corrective actions.
The foam has been visible in the river for nearly a month, exacerbated by recent rains in Karnataka, which have increased the water flow into the Kelavarapalli Dam.
Farmers fear that the deteriorating water quality could adversely affect irrigation, agriculture, and the overall ecological health of the river. The Kelavarapalli Dam is a crucial irrigation source for thousands of acres of farmland in the region. Farmers reliant on this reservoir have expressed concerns that ongoing pollution could threaten crop production and diminish the long-term viability of agriculture in the command area.
Local farmer organizations believe that the pollution is primarily due to untreated sewage entering the South Pennai River upstream, particularly from urban areas in Karnataka. They have also called for a comprehensive investigation of all industrial units along the riverbanks in both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to determine if industrial waste is contributing to the pollution.
Representatives from farmer organizations plan to meet with officials from the Water Resources Department to demand immediate action and the development of a coordinated action plan involving both states.
They are advocating for scientific studies to identify the exact sources of pollution and for measures to prevent untreated waste from entering the river.
Officials from the Water Resources Department have stated that regular monitoring of the river’s water is conducted monthly. Initial results have shown elevated levels of sulfate and phosphate, typically associated with sewage pollution rather than chemical industry waste.
The department has also found that the dissolved oxygen levels in the affected area have fallen below one milligram per liter, indicating very poor water quality, making it difficult for aquatic life, including fish, to thrive.
Water samples are continuously collected and sent to laboratories in Chennai and Pollachi for detailed analysis of various quality parameters. The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board is also independently sampling to assess pollution levels.
Farmers have urged officials to expedite investigations and implement long-term measures to curb pollution. They have warned that if the condition of the South Pennai River continues to deteriorate, it could have severe impacts on agriculture, biodiversity, and public health in the region.
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