The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Odisha government to revive a dead river in next six months by earmarking dedicated fund for the purpose.
It was alleged that the river Sukapaika (a branch of river Mahanadi) in Cuttack district became dead after its mouth was closed restricting its free flow in 1950s. The entire river bed was converted into a dumping ground for garbage and solid and liquid waste. Seven petitioners had moved the tribunal seeking its revival.
In his affidavit filed last year, Odisha’s Chief Engineer (Drainage) said Sukapaika River, a dead river, originates from Mahanadi River, having its mouth at Ayatpur.
