The Kerala State Pollution Control Board has included the plan in its final draft report on the development of a process package for the treatment of domestic sewage discharged into canals. | Photo credit: H.Vibhu
The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) has proposed a management plan targeting specific measures to end discharge of untreated sewage into four canals including Edappally and Thevara-Perandoor canals in Ernakulam.
The plan was included in the final draft report on the development of a process package for treatment of domestic sewage discharged into canals submitted by the Kerala State Pollution Control Board before the National Green Tribunal. The southern bench of the tribunal took suo motu cognizance of the reckless discharge of untreated sewage into water bodies. Apart from Edappally and Thevara-Perandoor canals, the study was conducted in Patolithot and Valiyat canals in Kollam.
The report recommended that steps be taken to ensure a gradual reduction in the discharge of sewage and solid waste into canals. It proposed measures to prevent further deterioration of water bodies by improving water quality. Other proposed strategies include the integration of urban growth with the existing canal system to create sustainable and holistic development of adjacent areas and fencing on both sides of the canals.
The report recommended improving existing sewage system facilities to reduce the risk of sewage being discharged into canals. It is imperative that a comprehensive sewerage network plan be developed, including the extension of existing sewerage systems, so that all discharges in the catchment can be captured and transferred to the proposed and existing sewage treatment plants.
Encroachments on the banks of canals narrow the canal, intensify water pollution and cause the disintegration of the entire ecosystem of the surrounding areas. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly monitor the bank of the canal. Disposal of garbage and solid waste into canals, as observed during monitoring, leads to significant depletion of dissolved oxygen and affects the biotic community. Such dumping of waste in canals and discharge of waste should be restricted. This waste must be scientifically treated and disposed of in a municipal landfill.
Published – 06 Dec 2025 21:14 IST
