In Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, the Kshipra River continues to grapple with pollution discharged from the Kanh River. Despite the implementation of crore-worthy schemes, devotees find it challenging to take baths without covering their noses due to the foul-smelling water.
The situation worsened as hundreds of fish perished in the Kshipra River near Bada Pull, emitting a strong odour in the surrounding area. The cause of this fish mortality was attributed to a lack of oxygen resulting from water withdrawal at the stop dam in front of Chakratirtha Ghat.
Upon learning about the fish deaths at Dhobi Ghat near Bada Pull, locals initiated efforts to collect the deceased fish. Mohammad Zakir, an employee at Dhobi Ghat, explained that the closure of the stop dam and water release from the dam ahead led to oxygen depletion, causing the mass fish deaths. Pedestrians near the bridge also experienced discomfort due to the unpleasant smell.
Expressing concern over pollution and fish deaths, Ujjain Municipal Corporation’s Opposition Leader Ravi Rai criticized the Kahn diversion project, stating that the water in Kshipra had turned black. Mayor Mukesh Tatwal attributed the fish deaths to oxygen depletion in the Kshipra River and announced plans to install fountains from Ramghat towards Dutt Akhara Ghat to address the issue. Corporator Prakash Sharma, in charge of the Ujjain Municipal Corporation PHE department, highlighted the challenges caused by the mixing of water from the Kanh River into the Kshipra, leading to the construction of vulnerable kutcha dams that pollute the river and contribute to fish deaths.
