ABBOTTABAD: Concerns have been raised over the potential environmental impact of the proposed Small Industries Phase Two and Marble Zone projects near the Haro River in Havelian, with officials warning that inadequate drainage management could affect water quality and agriculture in nearby areas of Haripur district.

On the instructions of Deputy Commissioner Sarmad Saleem Akram, Assistant Commissioner Sameera Mehsud visited the Small Industries Zone site and inspected the Haro River watercourse in the land allocated for the Marble Zone. A report on the situation will be submitted to the district administration.

Officials and representatives from industrial and business organizations participated in the inspection, including SIDP Deputy Director Rafiullah, Industry Development Officer Hamza Nisar, Tehsildar Havelian Shakeel Khan, President of Industry Association Abbottabad Haji Iftikhar Khan and members of the Abbottabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

According to officials, the project includes a 400-kanal economic zone and an 82-kanal marble zone in Havelian. Concerns were expressed that untreated drainage from the industrial area could flow into the Haro River, potentially affecting water resources and agricultural land in Haripur district.

During the visit, Assistant Commissioner Sameera Mehsud reviewed the drainage system and heard concerns raised by industrialists and stakeholders regarding environmental safeguards and waste management measures.

Officials noted that the Haro River is a natural waterway originating from the Galiyat mountain range in Abbottabad and has historically served surrounding communities and agricultural areas.

The land for the Small Industry Economic Zone was acquired during the tenure of former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister Ameer Haider Khan Hoti, with support from former provincial minister Ahmed Hussain Shah. Authorities said further recommendations regarding environmental protection and drainage management would be included in the final report.