Ludhiana, December 4, 2024 (Yes Punjab News)
Renowned actress and social activist Sonia Mann was arrested on Tuesday while protesting against severe industrial pollution affecting Budha Nallah and the Sutlej River. The protest aimed to draw attention to the hazardous discharge of untreated wastewater from industries in Ludhiana, which has caused significant environmental and health problems in surrounding communities.
Protest Highlights Environmental Crisis in Punjab
Sonia Mann, a vocal advocate for social and environmental issues, joined citizens demanding urgent action against unchecked pollution. Protesters accused local industries of dumping untreated waste directly into Budha Nallah, severely contaminating water sources. This pollution has led to numerous health issues, including skin diseases and even cases of skin cancer among affected populations.
Before her arrest, Sonia Mann addressed the crowd, stating, “The pollution of Budha Nallah is not just an environmental issue—it’s a humanitarian crisis. The contaminated water flowing into the Sutlej River is poisoning our people and future generations. We need accountability and immediate action to stop this catastrophe.”
Police Action Sparks Outrage
The protest escalated as activists demanded government accountability and stricter regulations against polluting industries. Police intervened, citing disruption of public order, and detained Sonia Mann along with other protesters at Dogri police station for the entire day. The arrest has drawn widespread criticism, with supporters taking to social media to demand her release.
Impact on Communities and Public Health
The alarming pollution of Budha Nallah has turned it into a toxic drain, with untreated industrial waste severely affecting nearby communities. Residents have reported polluted drinking water, increased skin diseases, and long-term health risks. Environmentalists warn that if immediate measures are not taken, the crisis could escalate, affecting not only Punjab’s water resources but also the livelihoods of millions.
Call for Sustainable Practices
Environmental activists and citizens have vowed to continue their fight for cleaner water and stricter enforcement of environmental laws. They stress the urgent need for industries to adopt sustainable practices and for the government to hold polluters accountable. Support for Sonia Mann and the cause is growing online, with many urging authorities to take swift and effective action.
FAQs
1. Why was Sonia Mann arrested?
Sonia Mann was arrested during a protest against industrial pollution in Budha Nallah, where she demanded action against industries polluting Punjab’s water resources.
2. What is the issue with Budha Nallah?
Budha Nallah has become severely polluted due to untreated industrial wastewater discharge, leading to contaminated drinking water, skin diseases, and long-term health risks.
3. What did Sonia Mann say about the pollution crisis?
Sonia Mann called the pollution of Budha Nallah a humanitarian crisis and urged the government to hold industries accountable and take immediate action to prevent further damage.
4. How has the public reacted to her arrest?
Sonia Mann’s arrest has sparked outrage on social media, with supporters calling for her release and demanding stricter action against polluters.
5. What are the health impacts of Budha Nallah pollution?
Communities near Budha Nallah report skin diseases, cases of skin cancer, and polluted drinking water, highlighting the urgent need for environmental reforms.
6. What actions are activists demanding?
Activists are calling for stricter environmental regulations, sustainable industrial practices, and immediate measures to clean up polluted water bodies in Punjab.
