Buner district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa is blessed with rich marble mountains, making it a significant hub for the marble industry. This natural resource plays a vital role in the local economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing to economic growth. However, the rapid expansion of marble industries has led to severe environmental consequences, particularly in the form of water pollution.
Once pristine and suitable for human consumption, the rivers and canals of Buner are now heavily contaminated due to industrial waste. Many marble factories discharge their waste directly into local water bodies without proper treatment. As a result, pollution levels have risen, harming aquatic life and reducing fish populations. This environmental degradation not only threatens biodiversity but also has wider implications for climate change and public health.
It is high time for the government and district administration to address this growing crisis. Strict regulations should be enforced to ensure that factories install proper waste management systems. Additionally, efforts should be made to clean and restore the rivers so they can once again serve as valuable resources for the local community.
Imrana Noor Bakhsh
Turbat
