NMCG Approves Projects for Ganga Rejuvenation through Ecosystem Restoration
In a pivotal move towards enhancing river and environmental health, the 62nd Executive Committee (EC) Meeting of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) convened under the leadership of Shri Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director-General of NMCG. The meeting emphasized sustainable practices in river rejuvenation, focusing on the conservation of vital wetlands and the promotion of treated wastewater reuse through tailored city plans. The committee approved several projects aimed at restoring ecosystems across the Ganga basin, with the Namami Gange program being recognized as one of the top ten World Restoration Flagship initiatives by the UN Decade.
Approval of Wetland Conservation Projects
A significant highlight of the meeting was the approval of the “Conserving and Sustainably Managing Nathmalpur Bhagad (Wetland) in Bhojpur District, Bihar” project, which carries an estimated budget of โน3.51 crore. This initiative marks the fifth wetland project undertaken under the Namami Gange program. The primary goal is to establish a robust management framework for Nathmalpur Bhagad, ensuring its ecological integrity. Previously, four wetlands have already received funding under this initiative, including Kalewada Jheel in Muzaffarnagar, Namiya Dah Jheel in Prayagraj, Reoti Dah Wetland in Ballia, and Udhwa Lake, a Ramsar site in Sahibganj, Jharkhand.
The project aims to integrate biodiversity and ecosystem service values into river basin conservation and development planning. It proposes a dual approach that includes interventions at both the sub-basin level, focusing on the Ghaghara, Gomti, and Sone confluence, and the site level at Nathmalpur Bhagad. Key activities will include wetland delineation, enhancement of hydrological regimes, conservation of species and habitats, ecological assessments, risk evaluations, capacity building, and outreach initiatives. These efforts are designed to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the wetland ecosystem.
Capacity Building for Water-Sensitive Cities
In addition to wetland conservation, the EC approved funding of โน34.50 lakh for a project aimed at “Capacity Building Initiatives for Making Water-Sensitive Cities in the Ganga Basin.” This initiative focuses on preparing city-specific plans and providing training on the reuse of treated wastewater for Agra and Prayagraj Districts in Uttar Pradesh. The project aligns with the National Framework for Safe Reuse of Treated Water (SRTW), developed by NMCG, and seeks to promote sustainable water management practices in urban areas.
By equipping cities with the necessary tools and knowledge, the initiative aims to enhance water security and promote the responsible use of treated wastewater. This is particularly crucial in the context of increasing urbanization and water scarcity challenges faced by many regions in India. The project underscores the importance of integrating water management strategies into urban planning to foster resilience against climate change and ensure sustainable development.
Commitment to Integrated Water Management
The approvals granted during the meeting reaffirm NMCGโs commitment to integrated water management and environmental restoration. As the mission progresses, these strategic decisions are expected to play a crucial role in realizing the vision of a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable river ecosystem for future generations. The meeting was attended by key officials, including Sh. Mahabir Prasad, Joint Secretary and Financial Advisor of the Ministry of Power, and several executive directors from NMCG.
The collaborative efforts highlighted in this meeting reflect a broader commitment to environmental stewardship and the sustainable management of water resources. By focusing on both conservation and capacity building, the NMCG aims to create a holistic approach to river rejuvenation that benefits both ecosystems and local communities. The ongoing initiatives under the Namami Gange program are set to make a lasting impact on the health of the Ganga and its surrounding environments.
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