NGT Orders Udupi DC and KUWSDB to Curb Sauparnika River Pollution

Key facts

• The National Green Tribunal (NGT) Southern Zone directed Udupi DC and Karnataka Urban Water Supply and Drainage Board (KUWSDB) Chairman to file a detailed report on stopping wastewater flow into the Sauparnika River in Kollur.
• Commercial establishments—lodges and hotels around Sri Mookambika Temple—are allegedly discharging sewage and sullage water into the river, causing long-term contamination.
• Although the Underground Sewerage Scheme (UGSS) was completed in 2020 at a cost of Rs 19.97 crore, river contamination persists.
• NGT observed that the Udupi DC’s report filed on November 25, 2025, lacked specifics on waste volume, UGSS carrying capacity, required enhancements, estimated costs, and implementation timelines.
• Karnataka State Pollution Control Board has been instructed to identify violators and report enforcement actions taken.