Uttar Pradesh's Bold Floodplain Delineation Initiative for Varuna and Assi Rivers

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was informed that Uttar Pradesh's irrigation department has partnered with the National Institute of Hydrology to map the floodplain zones of Varuna and Assi rivers. A memorandum finalized on December 7 authorizes Rs 29.5 lakh for this. Efforts include a new sewage treatment plan and river cleaning directives.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has been updated about an agreement between Uttar Pradesh's irrigation department and the National Institute of Hydrology to delineate the floodplain zones of Varuna and Assi rivers, tributaries of the Ganga in Varanasi.

A memorandum signed on December 7, backed by Rs 29.5 lakh from the state government, mandates action towards mapping floodplains following the River Ganga Authority Order of 2016. Currently, efforts to manage sewage discharge and enhance river cleanliness are underway.

The ongoing NGT hearing addresses floodplain demarcation, illegal sewage discharge, and encroachment issues, highlighting urgent concerns for regional water management and environmental protection.

(With inputs from agencies.)