Ludhiana, April 14
Over the past two years, significant positive changes have been observed in the Bhukhri Khurd area due to the continuous flow of clean water in the Buddha Dariya. Groundwater levels in nearby villages have risen by as much as 10 feet. The improved water quality has also attracted migratory birds, marking a major environmental achievement. Additionally, the TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) level of the river water near village Bhamian has shown considerable improvement.
Rajya Sabha MP and environmentalist Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal urged people to take ownership of the Buddha Dariya and contribute to its upkeep. While addressing a religious gathering at the Gurdwara Sahib in Bhukhri Khurd during a Baisakh-related event, he emphasized that rivers are part of our heritage and preserving them is a collective responsibility.
Extending Baisakhi greetings, Seechewal highlighted that the Khalsa Panth was established on this day in 1699, and Amrit was prepared using the waters of the Sutlej River. From Guru Nanak Dev to Guru Gobind Singh, all Sikh Gurus maintained a deep connection with water.
Seechewal stated that our relationship with rivers dates back centuries, and once we begin to treat them as our own, no one will dare to pollute them. He added that compared to last year, the river water is even cleaner this year, with TDS levels recorded around 185.
As part of the ongoing voluntary service (kar seva) for cleaning the Buddha Dariya, Baisakhi was celebrated again this year on the banks at Bhukhri Khurd. Fruit-bearing and shade-giving trees were planted to green the riverbanks. Devotees took a holy dip in the river, while children enjoyed playing in the water. Students from Sant Avtar Singh Memorial School presented kirtan, adding to the spiritual atmosphere.
