In a major victory for environmentalists and residents of Thane district, the National Green Tribunal has directed the state and local industries to take concrete steps to prevent the pollution of the Ulhas and Waldhuni rivers. In fact, no new industrial units will be allowed, neither will expansion of existing units, until measures are taken to protect the rivers that provide drinking water to thousands in the district.

Widespread pollution was taking place at Ulhas and Waldhuni rivers, which had become a dumping spot for sewage from local municipal bodies and effluents from industrial units in the vicinity. Pic for representation/Thinkstock