Union Minister of Jal Shakti C.R. Patil Chairs High-Level Review Meeting
A pivotal high-level review meeting took place today in Delhi, focusing on the integration of technology and innovation for the rejuvenation of rivers across India, particularly under the Namami Gange programme. Chaired by Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri C.R. Patil, the meeting featured extensive discussions on the future of river management, emphasizing the need for actionable interventions. The Minister urged stakeholders to expedite the implementation of initiatives aimed at ensuring cleaner and healthier river systems for the nation.
Technological Innovations in River Management
During the meeting, teams from the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) in Varanasi and Delhi presented their innovative projects aimed at enhancing river management. The IIT (BHU) team, working under the Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers (SLCR) in collaboration with Denmark, showcased their research focused on urban rivers. Meanwhile, IIT Delhi introduced the IND-RIVERS initiative, developed in partnership with the Netherlands, which aims to create a Decision Support System (DSS) for river rejuvenation. These presentations highlighted the potential of technology to foster sustainable river conservation efforts across the country.
Shri C.R. Patil praised the collaborative spirit and scientific rigor displayed by the teams. He emphasized the necessity of translating research findings into practical applications that can be implemented on the ground. The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to achieving “Aviral aur Nirmal Ganga,” or a continuous and pure Ganga, and called for a concerted effort to scale these initiatives across critical river systems.
Small Rivers Management Tool and Decision Support System
The meeting also featured a presentation on the Small Rivers Management Tool (SRMT), which serves as a Decision Support System focused on the Varuna River. This tool is designed to be scalable for other rivers and catchment areas. It aims to provide policymakers with a scientific and rapid-response mechanism for effective river management. The SRMT includes advanced modules for population forecasting, water demand and supply estimation, sewage load analysis, and the identification of priority zones for sewage treatment plants (STPs).
During a demonstration of the DSS, the Union Minister was briefed on its robust security features and user-friendly interface, which are intended to aid decision-makers in their efforts to manage river systems effectively. The SRMT represents a significant advancement in the tools available for river management, offering a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by small rivers.
Groundwater Replenishment and Pollution Monitoring
The meeting also highlighted Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) as a modern strategy for groundwater replenishment. A plan was presented to utilize real-time hydrogeological modeling to rejuvenate rivers by enhancing their base flow. Additionally, Shri C.R. Patil reviewed two ambitious projects: Hydrogeological Modeling in the Varuna Basin and Fingerprint Analysis of Emerging Pollutants in the Ganga Basin. These projects leverage cutting-edge technologies such as FloaTEM and LC-HRMS, providing a scientific approach to monitoring and treating river pollution.
The integration of these advanced technologies aims to improve the effectiveness of river pollution management efforts, ensuring a healthier ecosystem. The Minister’s review of these projects underscores the government’s commitment to employing innovative solutions to tackle the pressing issues of river pollution and groundwater depletion.
Establishment of a Centre of Excellence
IIT Delhi also presented a roadmap for establishing a Centre of Excellence (CoE) under the IND-RIVERS initiative, in collaboration with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and the Government of the Netherlands. This Centre is envisioned to lead practical research and serve as a hub for training and incubating startups in the water sector. Key focus areas will include Urban River Management Plans, Digital Twin technology, AI-based geospatial modeling, and the treatment of emerging pollutants such as plastics.
The establishment of this Centre aims to open new avenues for scientific research and innovation in river conservation. By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, the initiative seeks to enhance the effectiveness of river management strategies and contribute to the overall goal of sustainable water resource management in India.
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