Residents, activists, and volunteers demand stricter environmental enforcement to stop illegal waste dumping and restore the river’s natural ecosystem.

ABBOTTABAD: A large number of residents, social workers, and volunteers gathered along the banks of the Mangal River to protest against pollution, illegal industrial waste disposal, and activities threatening the river’s natural ecosystem under the banner of the “Mangal Bachao Movement.”

The demonstrators said the Mangal River is vital for the fertility of agricultural land, environmental protection, and the well-being of future generations, urging authorities to ensure its preservation at all costs.

Participants called for immediate legal action against those allegedly dumping industrial effluents and solid waste into the river. They also demanded that wastewater treatment systems be made mandatory for all industrial units and that environmental laws be strictly enforced through regular inspections and accountability measures.

The protesters further expressed concern over illegal encroachments along the riverbanks, unauthorized excavation of the riverbed, and deforestation, describing them as serious threats to the river’s natural flow and ecological balance.

Speakers at the protest pledged to continue the Mangal Bachao Movement until the river is free from pollution and its natural beauty and water flow are fully restored. They also appealed to the public to support the campaign and raise awareness about protecting the river.

According to the organizers, the Mangal River serves 56 villages and has been adversely affected by waste discharged from Ayub Medical Complex, nearby residential colonies, industrial units, mineral lease operations, and solid waste dumping.

They said the pollution has negatively impacted more than 20 fish farms, numerous water mills, and fertile agricultural land that depends on the river’s clean water.

The movement, led by Advocate Dilawar Khan, continues to campaign for stronger environmental safeguards and the long-term protection of the Mangal River.

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