Berhampur: Raising concern over the alarming deterioration of ponds across Berhampur city, Sudhir Raut, often referred to as ‘Green Man’ of Odisha, on Friday launched an ambitious ‘Jalasaya Parikrama; campaign on the occasion of World Environment Day, urging people to protect and preserve water bodies from pollution.
Addressing residents during his visit to several ponds in the Silk City, Raut appealed to the public not to dump puja leftovers, flowers, old photographs of deities, plastic bottles, household waste or even milk into ponds. Such practices, he said, reduce oxygen levels in water, pollute aquatic ecosystems and gradually render ponds unusable.
Accompanied by supporters, he toured different ponds to sensitise local residents about the importance of keeping ponds clean. He observed that the condition of many ponds has become precarious, with water quality deteriorating to the extent that it is unfit for human use.
“Ponds once served as lifelines of communities, providing water, supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. Unfortunately, many have now turned into dumping grounds for garbage, sewage and plastic waste,” he said.
Highlighting the environmental significance of ponds, Raut noted that they play a crucial role in groundwater recharge, flood control, temperature regulation and sustaining local flora and fauna. Their degradation, he warned, poses a serious threat to biodiversity and long-term water security.
He said the this campaign aims to encourage community participation in cleaning water bodies, preventing pollution and conserving aquatic ecosystems. The initiative gains added importance at a time when climate change and rapid urbanisation are putting increasing pressure on natural water resources.
Emphasising the need for collective action, Raut said protecting ponds today is essential for ensuring a healthier environment and a secure water future for coming generations. The campaign seeks to inspire citizens to take care of local water bodies and restore them to their former ecological glory.
