Plastic Waste From Storm Drains Pollutes Puducherry's River, Backwaters

Large quantities of single-use plastic waste are polluting the Ariyankuppam River and Thengaithittu backwaters in Puducherry, with debris entering the water through the Uppar drain and two major storm-water drains. The waste has accumulated along slow-moving backwater channels south of Pondy Marina, creating visible pollution in areas frequented by visitors and affecting the appearance of the waterways.

The plastic waste includes disposable bags, bottles, food wrappers, tetra packets, cups, sachets and thermocol materials. These items are carried through drains along with wastewater and stormwater runoff, particularly during rainfall. As the flow reaches the backwaters, the waste becomes trapped in areas where water movement is slower, allowing large quantities of debris to collect over time.

Mangrove vegetation in the Thengaithittu backwaters has also been affected as plastic materials become entangled among the plants. The accumulation of waste has raised concerns about the condition of the wetland ecosystem, which supports a range of aquatic and plant life. Persistent plastic pollution can also interfere with the natural functioning of mangrove areas and reduce the ecological value of the waterway.

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The pollution has become particularly visible along boating routes, where large mounds of plastic and other discarded materials can be seen along the banks and among the mangroves. The growing presence of waste is also affecting the experience of visitors who use the area for recreation and boating. The situation highlights concerns about the movement of improperly discarded plastic from urban drains into sensitive water bodies.

The Ariyankuppam River and Thengaithittu backwaters form an important part of Puducherry’s coastal and wetland environment. The flow of plastic waste into these waterways demonstrates how waste generated in urban areas can eventually reach natural ecosystems through drainage networks. Rainfall can further increase the movement of discarded materials by carrying waste from roads, residential areas and other locations into storm-water channels.

The accumulation of single-use plastic in the backwaters underlines the need for better waste management and regular removal of debris from drainage channels before it reaches environmentally sensitive areas. Preventing plastic from entering the drains, maintaining the waterways and protecting mangrove vegetation could help reduce the pressure on the fragile ecosystem. Greater public awareness and responsible disposal of waste are also important to prevent further pollution of the river and backwaters.

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