NGT seeks action on untreated sewage, garbage hotspots in Himachal

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) expressed concern over untreated sewage and garbage hotspots in Himachal Pradesh.

The state has 78 sewage treatment plants (STPs) with a capacity of 149.248 MLD, but only 88.293 MLD is treated, leaving nearly 45% capacity unutilized.

Over 30 urban local bodies, including Bilaspur, Nahan, and Banikhet, reported no household sewer connections despite existing sewerage infrastructure.

STPs were not complying with effluent standards, and some operated without valid consent.

Himachal generates 420.82 tonnes of urban solid waste daily; over 20 tonnes are disposed unscientifically, with 295 waste dumping hotspots identified.