The Bharalu River in Guwahati is facing severe pollution due to unchecked dumping of plastic and household waste, raising concerns over urban flooding and public health.

About Bharalu River

• The Bharalu River is a tributary of the Brahmaputra River flowing through Guwahati, Assam.
• It historically functioned as a natural drainage channel, helping manage stormwater and prevent flooding.
• It is a non- perennial river. 
• Initially Bharalu River received perennial flow from Bahini River which originates from Khasi Hills of Meghalaya at Umtyrnga. 
• It travels a distance of 9.29 Km before confluence with Bharalu River at Jonali point. 
• The width of the River is on an average 14 meters.

Key Issues

• Severe Pollution:
  • Continuous dumping of plastic, solid waste, and sewage has degraded water quality.
• Urban Flooding:
  • Blockage of drainage channels has led to frequent waterlogging in Guwahati.
• Health Hazards:
  • Polluted water causes foul odour and spread of diseases.
• Loss of Ecological Function:
  • The river has lost its ability to act as a functional urban ecosystem.

Government Initiatives

• Cleanup and revival efforts are undertaken under urban schemes such as:
  • National River Conservation Plan
  • Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)
• Municipal authorities are promoting scientific waste management and river restoration.

Key Challenge: Citizen Behaviour

• Experts highlight that government action alone is insufficient.
• Major concerns include:
  • Lack of household waste segregation (wet and dry waste)
  • Continued dumping into drains and water bodies
• Emphasis on:
  • Use of green bins (wet waste) and blue bins (dry waste)
  • Regular use of municipal waste collection systems

Exam Hook (Prelims MCQ)

With reference to the Bharalu River, consider the following statements:

1. It is a tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
2. It plays a role in urban drainage in Guwahati.
3. Its pollution is mainly due to glacial melting.

Which of the above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

One-Line Wrap

The Bharalu River crisis highlights how urban pollution and poor waste management can turn vital natural drains into environmental hazards.

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