The marble industry in Mohmand district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which was once celebrated for generating employment opportunities and driving economic growth, is now facing significant scrutiny due to its adverse environmental impacts. Local residents and experts are raising alarms about the detrimental effects of lax industrial practices on essential water resources, agricultural land, and local infrastructure.

Rich Natural Resources

Mohmand district is rich in natural resources, including marble, chromite, and nephrite, which have historically supported community livelihoods and contributed to the broader national economy. However, the lack of stringent regulatory action has led to serious ecological degradation in the area.

Government Initiatives and Industry Relocation Efforts

In an attempt to address these concerns, authorities initiated the Mohmand Marble City project, now rebranded as the Mohmand Economic Zone at Machnai, aimed at moving factories into a regulated industrial environment with proper waste management systems. Despite this initiative, only a limited number of factories have transitioned to the new zone, while a majority continue operations in Halimzai tehsil, specifically in locations such as Chanda, Sangar, and Nasapai.

Environmental Impacts of Unregulated Operations

Experts indicate that numerous factories are improperly discharging untreated wastewater, marble slurry, and dust into local streams. This indiscriminate waste disposal significantly clogs waterways, increasing the likelihood of flash floods during periods of heavy rainfall. Authorities have cautioned that obstructed drainage systems could lead to considerable damage to residences, farmland, and road networks.

Threat to Local Water Resources

The adverse environmental effects are extending to government-constructed small dams intended to alleviate water shortages. These reservoirs are increasingly becoming choked with industrial waste. A check dam located near Chanda Bazaar is almost entirely obstructed, while the Abdul Shakoor Small Dam near Ghalanai faces similar risks, potentially jeopardizing irrigation initiatives and local fisheries.

Community Frustration and Call for Action

Residents have voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the authorities’ inaction despite multiple complaints. Observers attribute this lack of response to ineffective enforcement of existing environmental laws, allowing industries to function without strictly adhering to safety regulations.

Urgent Interventions Proposed

Concerned stakeholders are now advocating for urgent measures, including the strict enforcement of environmental regulations, the relocation of hazardous industrial units, and immediate desilting of local dams and waterways. These actions are deemed essential to prevent further ecological damage in the region.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share