Major Projects Approved to Clean Ganga River
In a significant effort to tackle pollution and restore the Ganga River, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has announced a series of transformative projects. During the 61st Executive Committee meeting, chaired by Director-General Rajeev Kumar Mital, the committee approved multiple initiatives aimed at enhancing river cleanliness and promoting sustainable development. These projects are crucial for preserving the ecological and cultural heritage associated with the Ganga, which serves as a lifeline for millions of people.
Investment in Sewage Treatment Initiatives
The Executive Committee has sanctioned sewerage projects exceeding ₹900 crore, focusing on various regions. One of the key projects involves the Moradabad town in Uttar Pradesh, where an estimated ₹409.93 crore will be allocated for the “Prevention of Pollution in Ramganga River.” This initiative includes the construction of modern Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) with capacities of 15 MLD in Zone-3 and 65 MLD in Zone-4. Additionally, five major drains will be intercepted and diverted to prevent untreated sewage from entering the river.
Another notable project is set for Arrah town in Bihar, with an estimated cost of ₹328.29 crore. This initiative will establish a state-of-the-art STP with a capacity of 47 MLD and a 19.5 KM long sewer network. The project, based on the Hybrid Annuity Model, will also ensure operation and maintenance for 15 years. Its primary goal is to provide a long-term solution to the sewage issues in Ara city while significantly reducing pollution levels in the Ganga.
Enhancing Urban Sanitation in Kanpur and Pujali
In a bid to improve the drainage and sanitation system in Kanpur, the Executive Committee approved a project for the “Interception and Diversion of 14 Untapped Drains.” This initiative, estimated at ₹138.11 crore, aims to intercept sewage that currently flows directly into the river. The project will involve the construction of sewage pumping stations and manholes to redirect waste to treatment facilities.
Additionally, a significant project in Pujali Municipality, West Bengal, has been approved under the Namami Gange programme. This initiative will establish an Integrated Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) with a total estimated cost of ₹5.96 crore. The facility will have an 8 KLD capacity and is expected to enhance urban sanitation while maintaining the purity of local water sources.
Innovative Solutions for Yamuna Rejuvenation
The Executive Committee also greenlit a Nature-Based Solution project focused on rejuvenating the Yamuna River in the National Capital. This initiative includes the installation of pilot CAMUS-SBT (Continuous Advanced Mite Utilizing System – Soil-Based Treatment) plants to treat liquid pollutants in the Shahdara drain. The goal is to meet the water quality standards set by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) with plants capable of treating 5 MLD of wastewater.
Furthermore, to bolster research efforts, the establishment of the NMCG-IIT Delhi-Dutch Collaboratory for Intelligent River Systems and Clean Yamuna (IND-RIVERS) was approved. This collaboration aims to create Centres of Excellence that focus on urban rivers and nature-based solutions, combining academic expertise with governmental and international support to address critical water management challenges.
Preserving Cultural Heritage and Biodiversity
In addition to pollution control projects, the Executive Committee approved a study on the traditional wooden boat-making craft that has thrived for centuries in the Ganga basin. This initiative aims to document and preserve this cultural heritage. Moreover, the meeting also sanctioned the development of DDA Biodiversity Parks as Knowledge cum-Skill Development Centres for the National Mission for Clean Ganga, with an estimated cost of ₹8.64 crore. This project will enhance biodiversity awareness and promote sustainable practices in the region. These initiatives represent a comprehensive approach to cleaning and rejuvenating the Ganga River and its tributaries. By addressing pollution and promoting sustainable water management, the NMCG aims to ensure a clean and healthy environment for communities reliant on these vital water sources.
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