The feasibility of utilising the multiband ground truth radiometer (MGTR) for monitoring the pollution of the river Ganga by tanneries at Kanpur, India is explored. Parameters targeted in the study were Secchi depth (a measure of turbidity), turbidity, tannin concentration and chemical oxygen demand (COD). MGTR offers reflectance in 11 bands within the spectral range of 0.45 to 0.90 μm. The reflectance data has been utilised to develop empirical relationships with Secchi depth, turbidity and tannin concentration. The spectral reflectance data does not directly indicate the measure of the COD. However, an empirical relationship between tannin concentration and COD has been established which allows an indirect measurement of the COD. The conventional environmental engineering laboratory approach for determination of the above parameters is time consuming, expensive and slow. This results in serious constraints in monitoring pollution parameters at frequent intervals for a large number of sampling points. The outcome of the study shows the viability of MGTR as a means of quick, repetitive and handy remote sensing for monitoring pollution caused by tanneries in narrow surface streams.