Meeting with Sarpanch of Meensarkar {Post survey}

On the 3rd of November 2023, a meeting was hosted by Dr. Bela Thakur, the Principal of Dogra Degree College. The Sarpanch of Meen Sarkar Village Sh. Bharat Bhushan was present as the primary speaker along with Mr. Balwant Singh, PI, Coordinator, and two student representatives from the UBA committee. The Sarpanch began the discussion by elaborating on the problems faced by Meen Sarkar Village. He explained that the major issue in the village was the pollution caused by the nearby factories. The pollutants from the factory area were adversely affecting the health of the villagers, resulting in a high incidence of heart diseases, lung problems, and other health-related issues. Moreover, the untreated water discharged from the factories was contaminating the canal water, making it unfit for consumption. The pollution had also altered the taste and quality of the groundwater in the village. Following the presentation of the problems, the meeting participants discussed possible remedial measures to address the issues in Meen Sarkar Village. Several ideas were exchanged, including initiating discussions with the factory owners to ensure they adopt proper pollution control measures and supporting the villagers in accessing clean and safe drinking water. It was also suggested that a joint effort should be made to raise awareness about the environmental impact of the factories on the village.