Reported by Manoj Kumar Ojha
Doomdooma: Growing discharge of untreated wastewater and plastic waste into the Dibru and Tingrai rivers in Tinsukia district has raised serious environmental concerns, with residents and environmental observers warning that the fragile river ecosystem is under increasing pressure due to rapid urbanisation and inadequate waste management.
According to local sources, sewage from residential areas, commercial establishments, railway colonies and certain institutions is being discharged into drains that ultimately flow into the Dibru river system without scientific treatment.
Residents said the continued dumping of plastic waste and untreated wastewater has gradually affected water quality and disturbed local biodiversity in the region.
“Clean rivers are essential for both public health and biodiversity,” said a local.
Environmental activists and concerned citizens have expressed concern that sustained contamination could adversely impact aquatic life, wetlands and migratory bird habitats associated with the river ecosystem. They noted that the Dibru river has historically played an important role in maintaining ecological balance in and around Tinsukia.
Residents of several areas, including Bordoloi Nagar and adjoining localities, alleged that poor drainage planning and absence of proper wastewater disposal systems have worsened the situation, particularly during the monsoon when contaminated water inundates low-lying areas.
“A scientific drainage and waste treatment system is the need of the hour,” said a senior resident.
Social workers and senior citizens of the town have urged authorities to take immediate corrective steps, including the establishment of proper waste treatment facilities, stricter monitoring of drainage discharge and awareness drives to curb indiscriminate dumping of plastic waste.
Environmental experts cautioned that unchecked pollution of urban rivers could lead to long-term ecological imbalance and public health risks if preventive measures are not implemented in time.
The Dibru river hosts rare aquatic species, including the endangered Gangetic river dolphin, making its conservation critical for regional biodiversity.