PPCB orders restoration of five polluted ponds in Ludhiana’s Alamgir village

The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) has directed the restoration of five ponds located in Alamgir village of Ludhiana district after water samples collected on February 26, 2026, were found to exceed the prescribed pollution limits. The board conveyed this information to the tribunal, confirming that the samples taken from the ponds showed levels of contaminants beyond the standards set for safe water use.

The directive comes amid growing concerns about water quality across Punjab, where many water bodies have been affected by industrial discharge, untreated sewage, and agricultural runoff. Ponds, which traditionally serve as recharge zones for groundwater and provide ecological habitats, have increasingly become sites of contamination.

According to the PPCB, the order to restore the ponds is part of a broader effort to bring these water bodies back into compliance with environmental standards. The board has not detailed the specific steps that will be taken, but the directive implies that cleaning, removal of encroachments, and measures to prevent further pollution will be undertaken.

Alamgir village, situated on the outskirts of Ludhiana, has long relied on its local water bodies for irrigation and domestic purposes. The recent findings have raised awareness among residents about the condition of these ponds, which have historically shown signs of deterioration. While the exact extent of pollution in each pond was not disclosed, the sampling results indicated that all five sites failed to meet the required criteria.

The restoration move reflects a proactive approach by the PPCB to address water quality issues before they escalate into larger public health concerns. By targeting these ponds, the board aims to protect groundwater sources that many communities depend on for drinking and agricultural needs.

In recent years, Punjab has faced increasing challenges related to water contamination, prompting the state government and its agencies to intensify monitoring and remediation activities. The action in Alamgir village is consistent with these broader initiatives, which include the identification of polluted water bodies and the formulation of restoration plans.

Residents of Alamgir village have expressed concern over the state of the ponds, noting that the water has become discolored and unsuitable for use. While specific community reactions were not detailed in the report, the focus on restoring the ponds suggests an acknowledgment of the impact on local livelihoods and health.

The PPCB’s directive underscores the importance of regular water quality testing and timely intervention to mitigate environmental degradation. As the board moves forward with the restoration, the process will likely involve coordination with local authorities, community stakeholders, and possibly technical experts to ensure that the ponds are returned to a condition that meets safety standards.

Overall, the order to restore the five ponds in Alamgir village marks a significant step in Punjab’s ongoing efforts to improve water quality and protect vital natural resources. The action highlights the need for sustained monitoring and proactive measures to address pollution in water bodies across the region.

Source: Hindustan Times