Kalmoni River Faces Environmental Crisis Due to Waste Dumping

The Kalmoni river, a vital waterway in Azara, is facing a serious pollution crisis as it has become a dumping ground for waste. This situation has raised significant health concerns among local residents and commuters. The river, which traditionally serves as a drainage channel during monsoon season, is now obstructed by heaps of garbage, largely due to improper waste disposal practices. Local businesses and residents alike are contributing to the problem, prompting calls for immediate action from authorities to restore the river and protect public health. The community is urging for dredging and restoration efforts to prevent further environmental degradation and health risks.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 6, 2026, 11:56 IST

Environmental Concerns Surrounding Kalmoni River

AZARA, March 6: The Kalmoni river, a historic waterway situated between Kahikuchi and Azara villages in the Azara Revenue Circle on the outskirts of Guwahati, is currently suffering from severe pollution as it has become a dumping ground for waste, alarming local residents and environmentally conscious citizens.

This river, which runs parallel to National Highway 37, is facing significant neglect, with some individuals reportedly using it as a site for garbage disposal. The unpleasant odor from the accumulated refuse has made life challenging for those living nearby and for commuters, many of whom find themselves covering their noses while passing through the area. The deteriorating condition of the river poses a serious threat to public health.

Traditionally, during the monsoon season, the Kalmoni river plays a crucial role as a drainage channel, managing excess rainwater from the surrounding region.

However, the indiscriminate disposal of household waste by certain residents has resulted in large piles of garbage forming along various sections of the river, obstructing its natural flow. A significant issue is the lack of a proper waste management system for many tenant families in the area, forcing some to dispose of their domestic waste into the river.

Moreover, businesses situated along the riverbank are also reportedly contributing to the pollution by discarding their waste into the water. The situation is exacerbated by the presence of Azara’s evening market and numerous hotels, restaurants, and meat and fish shops along the riverbank. There are growing concerns that pathogens from the decaying waste could easily spread to these establishments, heightening the risk of disease outbreaks in the vicinity.

Residents are calling on local authorities to take immediate action to dredge and restore the river to ensure proper water flow and mitigate further environmental and health risks.