The Waters of Prachi and Kadua Rivers Turn Toxic – Life and Livelihood at Risk, Demand for Dredging Intensifies
Kakatpur (Tushar Ranjan Dixit), Dated 03/10:
In the Kakatpur-Astarang block region of Puri district, the waters of the Prachi and Kadua rivers have now turned toxic. The level of pollution in both rivers has increased so much that the water is no longer suitable for bathing or any practical use. Direct contact with the river water is reportedly causing skin diseases.
Local residents and the Prachi Suraksha Committee have been repeatedly demanding proper drainage of flood and rainwater, the removal of obstructions in the rivers, the restoration of natural flow, and especially the cleaning of the confluence at Keluni Muhana, where the two rivers meet. Once known for their fertile banks and widespread paddy and vegetable cultivation, both rivers have now become unsuitable for farming due to the toxicity of the water, according to several local farmers.
Fisheries have also been affected, as fish, crabs, and aquatic snails are often seen dead and floating due to the polluted water. Additionally, aquatic weed growth has been increasing in both rivers. Large amounts of such weeds are stuck near the Kundai barrage on the Prachi river and the Tikarpada anicut on the Kadua river. Since these weeds are not being removed, sluice gates are clogged, preventing efficient drainage of rainwater. As a result, water stagnates in fields for months, destroying paddy and vegetable crops, as per farmer complaints.
Historically, the Prachi River has been revered as a sacred water body—witness to Odisha’s cultural awakening, ancient heritage, and maritime trade. Once considered holy water that devotees would sprinkle on their heads, the river now emits a foul odor, and people recoil from its current state. Originating from the Mahanadi River, the Prachi is now nearly extinct. In the past, it was a silent witness to Odisha’s trade and naval glory.
For years, local residents, along with priests, monks, and temple heads from various mathas and temples, have demanded the cleaning and dredging of the Prachi River through the Puri Drainage Division. However, the lack of response from the drainage department has led to growing dissatisfaction.
Except for the rainy season, the Prachi and Kadua rivers remain dry and stagnant for the rest of the year. In light of the situation, many social organizations are now firmly demanding that the Chief Engineer and the Executive Engineer of the Puri Drainage Division immediately intervene and initiate the revival and restoration of the Prachi and Kadua rivers.
