Authorities turn blind as tankers go on dumping sewage into Tungabhadra

Kurnool: The unauthorised discharge of sewage water from tankers into a canal near Masamaseed, which eventually joins Tungabhadra river, has raised serious concerns over water pollution and public health in Kurnool city. Despite The Hans India highlighting the issue on earlier occasions (February 23, 2026), the civic authorities appear to have failed to take effective action to prevent the practice.

The continued dumping of sewage into the canal has raised questions about the municipal administration’s monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.

Since Tungabhadra river is a crucial source of drinking water for Kurnool residents, discharge of sewage into its connecting waterways has become a matter of grave concern. The dumping of untreated wastewater through tankers threatens to contaminate the river and raises concerns over the quality and safety of water supplied to households. Residents fear that continued negligence could endanger public health and cause lasting damage to the aquatic environment.

Expressing concern over the civic authorities’ alleged inaction, residents pointed out the contrast between the continued pollution and official claims of transforming Kurnool into a clean and green city.

They demanded that the authorities identify the tanker operators involved in the illegal discharge and seize the vehicles used for dumping sewage. They also called for hefty penalties against the offenders to create a strong deterrent and ensure that others do not resort to similar practices.

Residents urged municipal authorities to conduct regular inspections of the canal near Masamaseed and deploy monitoring measures to prevent further violations.

They stressed that mere warnings and assurances would not solve the problem, insisting on stringent enforcement and exemplary action against those responsible.

With the Tungabhadra serving as a vital source of drinking water for Kurnool, they said protecting the river from sewage pollution should be treated as an urgent public health priority.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

V Narendra Kumar

V Narendra Kumar[email protected]

Narendra Kumar Varikuntla is a seasoned journalist with 15 years of experience in reporting and news coverage. He holds a Master's degree in English Literature. He is Staff Correspondent for The Hans India based in Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh Before embarking on his career in journalism, he worked with Tata Robins Fraser (TRF) as a Confidential Assistant at the Rourkela Steel Plant, where he served for 10 years. His tenure at TRF enabled him to develop strong administrative, communication, and organisational skills, which have significantly contributed to his success in journalism. He began his journalistic career with Deccan Chronicle, where he gained valuable experience in reporting and news gathering. Since 2015, he has been serving as a Staff Correspondent with The Hans India, covering the erstwhile Kurnool district, including Kurnool and Nandyal. During his journalism career, Narendra Kumar has extensively reported on governance, politics, public affairs, social issues, agriculture, and developmental activities. He is known for his commitment to accurate, balanced, and responsible journalism, maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. In addition to his journalistic profession, he is actively engaged in agriculture and personally cultivates 10 acres of farmland. His close association with farming provides him with firsthand insight into rural life and farmers' issues, enriching his reporting on agriculture and rural development.

Read More