Why in News
  • The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought a detailed action report to stop wastewater discharge into the Sauparnika River in Kollur, Karnataka.
  • The case will be heard again on February 9, 2026.
SOUPARNIKA RIVER POLLUTION explained for UPSC

WHO FILED THE CASE?

  • The petition was filed by a social activist from Kollur.
  • He highlighted long-term pollution of the river due to untreated sewage from commercial establishments.

MAIN ISSUE

  • Sewage and sullage water from:
    • Lodges
    • Hotels
    • Commercial establishments around Sri Mookambika Temple
  • This wastewater is directly entering the river, contaminating it for several years.
  • Devotees using river water are facing serious problems.

UNDERGROUND SEWERAGE SCHEME FAILURE

  • UGSS was:
    • Started in 2015
    • Completed in 2020
    • Cost: ₹19.97 crore
  • Despite this:
    • River pollution has not stopped
    • Commercial establishments continue to release untreated wastewater
NGT’s OBSERVATION
  • The report submitted by the Udupi District Collector (DC) in November 2025 was not satisfactory.
  • NGT noted missing critical details, such as:
    • Total volume of wastewater generated
    • Carrying capacity of the existing UGSS
    • Whether capacity enhancement is required
    • Estimated cost of upgrades
    • Clear timelines for corrective action
NGT’s DIRECTION To Udupi District Collector & KUWSDB
  • File a fresh, detailed report with:
    • Concrete action plan
    • Cost estimates
    • Clear timelines
  • Appear before the Tribunal via video conferencing
To Karnataka State Pollution Control Board
  • Identify violating establishments
  • Specify action taken against polluters
  • Submit a separate compliance report

ROLE OF KUWSDB

  • Karnataka Urban Water Supply and Drainage Board (KUWSDB) is responsible for:
    • Sewage management
    • STP functioning
  • NGT questioned the effectiveness of the existing STP and sewage infrastructure.

WHY THIS ISSUE IS SERIOUS?

  • Souparnika River has religious, ecological, and social importance.
  • Pollution effects:
    • Devotees visiting Kollur
    • Local ecology
    • Public health
  • Continuous neglect may cause irreversible environmental damage.

ABOUT SOUPARNIKA

  • Also called Sowparnika River
  • A west-flowing river in Karnataka
  • Originates from:
    • Kodachadri Hills, Western Ghats
  • Flows through dense forests and merges into the Arabian Sea
  • Unique feature:
    • Near Maravanthe Beach, the river runs parallel to the sea, separated by a narrow land strip

CONCLUSION

  • The NGT has taken a strong stand on prolonged river pollution.
  • Mere infrastructure creation like UGSS is not enough without enforcement.
  • Clear accountability, monitoring, and strict action against violators are essential.
  • The next hearing will be crucial for protecting the Sauparnika River and public interest.