Jajpur: The Jajpur Municipality is at the center of controversy as waste continues to be dumped along the banks of the Baitarani River under the guise of development, despite crores of rupees being spent in the name of urban improvement. This dumping yard is severely polluting the river water. Despite repeated demands from concerned citizens, the municipality has not taken action to shut down the dumping yard, leading to growing public dissatisfaction. Additional District Magistrate Shubhendra Samal has stated that municipal officials will be informed about the matter.
Baitarani River Turning into a Dump Site
The river, once considered the lifeline of Jajpur, is now choked with garbage. The stench from the waste is unbearable. Every day, heaps of municipal waste are dumped on the riverbanks, turning the river into a toxic site. During the rainy season, waste and contaminated water mix directly with the river, raising fears of waterborne diseases spreading in the area.
Negligence Behind the Pollution
Despite the massive expenditure on Jajpur’s development, waste management continues to be handled poorly, with the dumping yard still operational right along the riverbank. This negligence is leading to severe water pollution. The municipality has ignored repeated appeals to shut down the dumping yard, causing frustration among the residents.
Impact on Pilgrimage and Heritage Sites
The banks of the Baitarani River are home to several ancient temples, including the Baraha Temple, Nrusingha Temple, Surya Temple, and Jagannath Temple. Pilgrims from across the state and country come here for holy dips in the river. However, due to the foul-smelling, polluted water caused by waste dumping, people are now reluctant to bathe in the river. Even though barrages and embankments have been constructed, no effective measures have been taken to maintain water cleanliness. This has disappointed pilgrims and visitors from outside the state.