River Bhogdoi
- September 6, 2021
- Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
- Category: DPN Topics
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River Bhogdoi
Subject: Environment
Context:
The rampant coal mining in Nagaland, coupled with waste discharge from tea estates and encroachment have been sounding death knells for River Bhogdoi in Assam.
Concept:
- The river is on the south bank tributaries of the mighty river Brahmaputra, originates from Mokokchung in Nagaland where it is also known as Tsujenyongnullah.
- From its origin in the Naga Hills, it flows through the City of Jorhat and then it merges with another river and its name becomes Gelabill. The previous name of the river was Desoi
- The total catchment area of the inter-state river (flowing between Assam and Nagaland) is 1,545 square kilometres and travels 160 kilometres before joining Dhansiririver near its confluence with Brahmaputra.
Issues
- Bhogdoi is one of the most polluted rivers in Assam and 351st among the polluted rivers in the country.
- Coal mining in Nagaland introduced high levels of manganese in the river,
- Locals had also complained of tea brewed from it tasting bitter.
- The drains carry industrial and residential wastes. The river has also become heavily silted, reducing its carrying capacity. There have been no systematic studies done to save the river
- The high BOD indicates low water quality and less oxygen for aquatic life.
- The massive encroachments along the river bank have been not only making the river narrower but also increasing the filth and garbage.
- Disposing human excreta and cremating dead bodies along the river bank are gradually contaminating the soil and water of the region. This is increasing the threat of water-borne diseases.