Tue Jun 24 15:41:01 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The Department of Water Resources, under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, is conducting a Condition Assessment and Management Plan (CAMP) study for six major river basins in India, including the Periyar. This project aims to create action plans for the holistic development of these basins, focusing on river conservation, ecosystem restoration, and improved waterbody health. A petition before the National Green Tribunal highlighted pollution issues in the Periyar River caused by illegal pollutant discharge and industrial pollution. In addition to the CAMP study, the Wildlife Institute of India is conducting a biodiversity study for the same rivers. The Department of Water Resources has sanctioned pollution abatement projects for the Pampa, Chitrapuzha, and Periyar rivers. However, the department clarified that issues related to industrial toxic effluents and illegal encroachment fall under the jurisdiction of the State government and local bodies.
**News Article:**
**National Green Tribunal Hears Progress on River Basin Studies Amidst Periyar Pollution Concerns**
*KOCHI, June 24, 2025* – The Department of Water Resources, Ministry of Jal Shakti, has informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) of ongoing efforts to assess and manage six major river basins across India, including the Periyar. The announcement comes as the NGT’s Southern Bench hears a petition regarding escalating pollution issues plaguing the Periyar River.
The Condition Assessment and Management Plan (CAMP) study, encompassing the Godavari, Narmada, Mahanadi, Cauvery, Krishna, and Periyar basins, aims to formulate comprehensive action plans for the holistic development of these vital waterways. The plans will prioritize the conservation and rejuvenation of rivers and tributaries, the restoration of river ecosystems, and the overall improvement of waterbody health.
“This project is crucial for ensuring the long-term ecological health and sustainability of these essential river systems,” stated a spokesperson for the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
The announcement follows a petition filed with the NGT highlighting the severe pollution impacting the Periyar River, specifically focusing on illegal discharge of pollutants through unauthorized drains and the detrimental effects of industrial pollution on the Eloor-Edayar stretch.
Alongside the CAMP project, the Wildlife Institute of India is undertaking a biodiversity study for the same six rivers, promising a comprehensive understanding of the region’s ecological dynamics.
The Department of Water Resources also announced the sanctioning of ₹115.7 crore for pollution abatement projects on the Pampa, Chitrapuzha, and Periyar rivers.
While outlining these efforts, the Department clarified that issues pertaining to industrial toxic effluents and illegal encroachment fall under the purview of respective State governments and local urban bodies, as water management is primarily a state subject. The department emphasized the responsibility of these entities to ensure proper treatment of sewage and industrial effluents before their discharge into rivers and waterbodies.
The progress on these studies and projects offers a glimmer of hope for the long-term health of India’s river basins, however, the NGT petition serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for coordinated action at both national and state levels to address the ongoing pollution crisis.
First Piper 