Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh deputy chief minister Pawan Kalyan ordered immediate action against alleged polluters after laboratory tests reportedly revealed alarming levels of contamination in the Godavari River near Rajahmundry.The deputy chief minister recently conducted a field inspection of the river following complaints from residents and environmental concerns over deteriorating water quality. During the visit, officials collected water samples from various locations, which were later sent for laboratory analysis.At a review meeting with district officials on Monday, Pawan Kalyan examined the test reports and expressed serious concern over the findings. According to officials, the analysis indicated that hazardous chemical content in parts of the river exceeded the permissible limits prescribed under environmental regulations.Questioning officials over the situation, Pawan Kalyan sought to know how such pollution levels went unchecked. Pollution Control Board authorities informed him that water samples were being collected once every month as part of routine monitoring. However, the deputy chief minister expressed dissatisfaction and asked why no stringent action was taken despite indications of significant pollution.He directed the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board to issue show-cause notices to the management of Andhra Paper Mills and seek explanations regarding the alleged discharge of pollutants into the river.Pawan Kalyan also ordered notices to the Rajahmundry Municipal Corporation, citing inadequate monitoring and enforcement measures. He instructed officials to examine possible lapses and strengthen surveillance mechanisms.Emphasising the importance of protecting the Godavari River, especially with future Godavari Pushkaralu expected to attract millions of devotees, the deputy chief minister directed authorities to take all necessary steps to ensure a clean, safe and pollution-free river environment.