Focus on water quality, biodiversity, and sustainable flow restoration from source to confluence
Lucknow: In a landmark move aimed at rejuvenating rivers across Uttar Pradesh, the state government has adopted a comprehensive and coordinated strategy that involves district-level collaboration to ensure uninterrupted river flow, water quality improvement, and biodiversity conservation. Under the direct guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, all districts and departments have been directed to take urgent and result-oriented steps as part of a unified action plan.
The initiative goes beyond just restoring river flow. It encompasses technical interventions like desiltation, channelization, and course correction, as well as ecological restoration through afforestation and protection of water bodies along riverbanks. The ultimate objective is to treat rivers as “living heritage” and protect them in a sustainable, long-term manner.
Source-to-Confluence River Mapping and District Collaboration
As per the plan, each river will be tracked and mapped from its source to its confluence. Every district that falls along the river’s path will share the responsibility of its rejuvenation. District-level authorities are tasked with preparing action plans for cleaning the river stretch in their jurisdiction, restoring natural water flow, and protecting water sources. These efforts will include the renovation of ponds, construction of check dams, water harvesting units, and identification of interconnected water body chains for conservation.
High-Tech Interventions and Ecological Restoration
Administrative units will create joint district-wise plans for executing technically advanced processes like desiltation and course correction. Dense plantations will be carried out along the riverbanks, and water conservation projects will be implemented in catchment areas. Measures such as the construction of recharge pits, check dams, and other water storage infrastructure will also be integral to the project.
Traditional water bodies and ponds will be rejuvenated, and plantation drives along their banks will be mandatory. This multi-layered approach is expected to strengthen national missions like Jal Jeevan Mission and Namami Gange, while simultaneously contributing to rural economic upliftment through agriculture, animal husbandry, and allied sectors.
A Model for India
This river rejuvenation model, if successfully implemented, could set an example for other states across India. By ensuring year-round water flow, raising groundwater levels, and maintaining ecological balance, the initiative also promises long-term benefits for environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
The Yogi Adityanath-led government’s renewed focus on river restoration marks a transformative step in conserving natural resources and fostering a greener, more water-secure Uttar Pradesh.
