NGT flags MP sewage crisis: 18 of 48 rivers fail pollution standards
The National Green Tribunal's Central Zone Bench has flagged serious pollution concerns in Madhya Pradesh, noting that untreated sewage from major rivers including the Narmada, Chambal, Betwa and Tapi is entering water bodies. The state generates approximately 2,183.7 million litres of sewage daily but has installed treatment capacity of only 1,311.99 MLD, with just 696.03 MLD actually being utilised—treating only around 32 per cent of total sewage generated.
According to Central Pollution Control Board data, water quality monitoring at 164 locations across 48 rivers during 2022-2023 found 36 monitoring locations covering 18 rivers non-compliant with biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) standards. The Tribunal expressed concern over slow expansion of sewer infrastructure, noting that while Madhya Pradesh has 3,629.65 km of sewer network, 7,166.93 km is planned under AMRUT 2.0 but none has been completed. The NGT has directed state authorities to submit district-wise action plans and improve sewage treatment plant monitoring.
