Sano Paila calls for a collective action to restore Sirsia
October 30, 2025
Sano Paila (A Little Step) expresses deep concern about the ongoing pollution of the Sirsia River, a lifeline of Birgunj that continues to suffer from industrial waste, negligence, and lack of long-term attention. We believe that the pollution of the Sirsia is not only an environmental problem but also a serious public health issue that affects thousands of families, their livelihoods, and the local ecosystem.
“The pollution of the Sirsia River shows how passive we have become as a community. We remember the river only during festivals like Chhath, when its water is needed for rituals. But Sirsia deserves care and attention every day, not just once a year,” said Raunak Raj Sarraf, a public health professional and Head of Resource Mobilization and Grants Management at Sano Paila. “A few careless industries should not define the image of Birgunj. Everyone must take responsibility, and efforts to clean and protect the river must continue throughout the year. Industries and Factories located at the banks of sirsia should install wastewater treatment plants.”
Sano Paila stresses that short-term clean-up events are not enough to solve this problem. The organization calls for regular cooperation and coordination between all sectors, government authorities, industries, civil society, and local communities, to keep the river clean and safe. The Sirsia River should not be used as a publicity tool by local leaders, as it has often been mentioned in political manifestos without meaningful action.
Reviving the Sirsia requires joint responsibility, transparency, and accountability from every sector. Clean water is not a privilege; it is a basic right for everyone. Restoring the Sirsia means protecting the health, dignity, and future of the people of Birgunj. Sano Paila remains committed to working with all stakeholders to create a cleaner and healthier city through cooperation, awareness, and collective action. 6
Let’s join hands in making sirsia clean and pollution-free.
