First Anniversary of Sacred Budha Dariya Kar Seva Celebrated

Ludhiana, February 2, 2025: The first anniversary of the Kar Seva for the rejuvenation of Punjab’s most polluted river, Budha Dariya, was marked with a special event at Gurudwara Gau Ghat. On this occasion, environmentalist and Rajya Sabha member, Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, shared insights into the progress made since the initiative's launch. 

Reflecting on the first phase of the Kar Seva, which began on February 2, 2024, Sant Seechewal highlighted the planting of over 11,000 trees along the riverbanks and the construction of pathways on both sides of the river. 

He also emphasized the commencement of the second phase of the initiative, which began on December 22, 2024, at Gurudwara Gau Ghat. This phase focused on halting the discharge of sewage into the river. Sant Seechewal said that a long-awaited pumping station near Gurudwara Gau Ghat had been temporarily activated to prevent the flow of approximately 60 MLD of untreated wastewater into the river. Additionally, measures were implemented to stop the disposal of waste from nearby dairies into the river. 

To further enhance the cleanliness of Budha Dariya, the Seechewal model is being established in the seven villages along the riverbanks to prevent the inflow of contaminated water. Sant Seechewal expressed optimism, stating that the construction of ghats along the river has rekindled hope among locals that soon, the river will once again flow with clean water.

In his address, Sant Seechewal remarked that February 2 is a significant day, as it coincides with World Wetlands Day, which is observed globally to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands in maintaining ecological balance. He stressed the need to protect these vital water bodies, which are increasingly under threat.

Sant Seechewal further acknowledged the sacredness of Budha Dariya, pointing out that it was historically blessed by the footsteps of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He emphasized that Guru Nanak’s teachings called for the preservation of water, air, and land for the welfare of all. Sant Seechewal lamented that the river, once revered, has now been reduced to a drain, with many referring to it as Budha Nala. He called for restoring the river’s original name and promised to halt the discharge of polluted and toxic water into it, deeming such actions illegal.  

As part of the ongoing efforts, Sant Seechewal informed that new bathing ghats are being constructed along the riverbanks. He urged officials from the Punjab Pollution Control Board and the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation to take strict action against those discharging harmful waste into Budha Dariya.

The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Sant Sukhjeet Singh, Sant Kulwant Singh, Sant Sukhvinder Singh, Lakhvir Singh (Manager, Gurudwara Gau Ghat), Advocate Suresh Sharma, Balbir Singh Virk, Harbhajan Singh Kahlon, Jaswinder Singh Kala, Surjeet Singh Shanti, former President Nek Singh, Bibi Minhas, and numerous Kar Sevaks and local residents.  

Sant Seechewal concluded his address with a call for collective action, urging everyone to rise above political differences and work together to save Punjab’s rivers and natural resources for future generations.