JK Paper Mill Accused of Polluting Tapi River, Faces EPA Notice

Songadh (Tapi District), Gujarat – In a serious development, JK Paper Mill Limited located in Gunsada, Songadh, has come under legal scrutiny for allegedly violating environmental laws by discharging untreated industrial effluents into Ghodanaala — a local stream that flows directly into the Tapi river. This river serves as a crucial water source for thousands across Songadh to Surat, used for irrigation, livestock, and even drinking purposes.

Despite repeated complaints from locals over foul odors, contaminated water, and air pollution in the surrounding area, authorities have allegedly failed to take any decisive action. The residents say they have suffered for years under the environmental degradation caused by the mill.

Environmental scientist and advocate Roshni B. Patel has now stepped in, issuing a statutory notice under Section 19-B of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The notice has been served to the Chairman of Gujarat’s Forest and Environment Department, the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), and the District Collector of Tapi, among others.

“The discharge of untreated effluents into natural water bodies is a gross violation of environmental law. If no action is taken within 60 days, we will move the National Green Tribunal, West Zone, Pune,” said Adv. Roshni B. Patel, who is leading the charge against the mill.

Local residents report strong stenches from the factory premises and visible black water mixing into the natural stream, raising alarm about the plant’s alleged non-compliance with Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) requirements set by the GPCB.

“We can no longer use the nearby water for farming or cattle. Children fall sick often. We have raised our voices many times, but no one listens,” said Mahesh Vasava, a local farmer and activist from a nearby village.

The notice demands immediate cessation of all illegal discharges and strict implementation of environmental safeguards, particularly ZLD compliance. If authorities fail to act within the 60-day notice period, Patel has threatened to file a petition with the National Green Tribunal, citing prolonged inaction and environmental degradation.

The issue has reignited calls for stronger environmental enforcement in Gujarat’s industrial corridors. With the pollution in the Tapi river potentially affecting regions downstream — including urban centers like Surat — the pressure is now on both the GPCB and state authorities to act before the matter escalates further.