The Crying Sirsiya River (Birgunj): A Tale of Neglect and Hope

As I journeyed along the India-Nepal border, my second visit to Raxaul, India, was marred by a troubling sight. Amidst the routine of travel and commerce, my attention was drawn to the Sirsiya River. What I beheld was not the serene flow of a typical river but a dismal sight – its waters were a deep, ominous black. 

I approached the river anxiously, but the workers who were digging a ditch along the bank warned me not to get too close. They cautioned that the water was falling heavily and the river itself was polluted and dangerous; touching it could cause numbness and itchiness. Despite their warning, I observed the scene and managed to take two or four pictures. Reflecting on the experience, I felt compelled to write something.  

Current situation of the Sirsiya River ( Photo by Tek) 

The Sirsiya River, originating in the pristine Ramban forest of Jitpur Simara Sub-metropolitan 3, was once a symbol of natural beauty and vitality. However, as it meandered its way towards Birgunj, it fell victim to the relentless onslaught of industrial pollution. Over the past four decades, rapid industrialization in the Birgunj-Pathalaiya area has resulted in unchecked discharge of solid and liquid waste directly into the river's stream. The transformation of the Sirsiya River from a clear, flowing stream to a murky depth is a testament to the collective failure of industrial mismanagement and the environmental and social impacts of unplanned industrial development. With over 2000 industries shamelessly dumping their waste into its waters, the river has become a symbol of environmental degradation and human indifference.

Source of the Sirsiya River (Ramban) (Google Earth Photo)

As the Sirsiya River languishes in agony, it is not just the river itself that suffers. Over 20 communities, both in Nepal and across the border in Bihar, India, bear the brunt of its pollution. The once vibrant tradition of bathing in its waters during the month of Kartik has become a distant memory, as the younger generation remains oblivious to its former glory.

A Call to Action:

Despite efforts by local authorities and environmental activists, concrete action to address the plight of the Sirsiya River remains elusive. While committees have been formed and reports submitted, little has been done to stem the tide of pollution and restore the river to its former glory.

As a development practitioner dedicated to social and environmental causes, I urge the federal and local governments, along with all concerned stakeholders, to heed the cry of the Sirsiya River. Let us not allow indifference and neglect to drown out the voice of nature. Let us take decisive action to cleanse and rejuvenate the Sirsiya River, turning its tears of sorrow into tears of joy once more.

Thank you.