NMCG's 60th Executive Committee Meeting Approves Key Projects for Ganga Rejuvenation and Pollution Control

In Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh, another vital project was sanctioned to prevent untreated sewage from flowing into the Varuna River, a major tributary of the Ganga.

The 60th Executive Committee Meeting of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), chaired by Director General Shri G. Asok Kumar, marked a pivotal moment in the mission's efforts to conserve and rejuvenate the Ganga River. Several groundbreaking projects were approved, focusing on enhancing river cleanliness, promoting sustainable development, and preserving the environmental and cultural heritage of the river.

A significant milestone was achieved with the approval of the interception and diversion of the Durga Drain and the construction of a 60 MLD capacity sewage treatment plant (STP) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. This project, with an investment of ₹274.31 crore, is based on the hybrid annuity model and includes a 75 MLD capacity main pumping station and other critical infrastructures. The initiative aims to ensure long-term wastewater management and substantial pollution reduction in the holy city of Varanasi.

In Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh, another vital project was sanctioned to prevent untreated sewage from flowing into the Varuna River, a major tributary of the Ganga. This project, costing ₹127.26 crore, involves the establishment of three STPs with capacities of 17 MLD, 5 MLD, and 3 MLD, along with an extensive sewer network designed to tap four major drains. Implemented under the Design-Build-Operate-Transfer (DBOT) model, this initiative ensures sustainable operation and maintenance for the next 15 years, significantly contributing to the region's ecological health.

Innovative Public Engagement through “Ganga Through the Ages – A Literary Bioscope”

In a bid to enhance public participation in Ganga conservation, the committee approved “Ganga Through the Ages – A Literary Bioscope,” an innovative project in collaboration with the National Book Trust. This initiative aims to foster awareness through literature, education, and community engagement, emphasizing the river’s historical, spiritual, and ecological significance. Programs under this project include:

• Ganga Mobile Parikrama: Mobile libraries traveling along the riverbanks to promote reading and awareness.
• Chaupal Ganga Kinare: Community gatherings to discuss the importance of the Ganga and conservation efforts.
• Ganga Awareness Week: A series of events focused on educating the public about the river’s significance.
• Ganga Ambassador Program: Training volunteers to become advocates for Ganga conservation in their communities.

These programs will leverage digital storytelling, school workshops, and literary sessions to inspire behavioral change and encourage deeper community involvement in the rejuvenation of the Ganga.

Scientific Advancements with Drone-Based Monitoring in West Bengal

Furthering scientific methods in environmental conservation, the committee approved a drone-based monitoring project in West Bengal under the Namami Gange Mission-II. This initiative will use drone technology to monitor the plantation of saplings, assess tree health, and develop a comprehensive digital database. The project aims to ensure effective afforestation efforts along the riverbanks, contributing to the broader goals of the Namami Gange program.

Commitment to Ganga Conservation and Sustainable Development

The projects approved during this meeting reaffirm NMCG’s dedication to Ganga conservation through infrastructural advancements, pollution control, and public engagement. The integration of traditional methods with modern technology and community-driven initiatives underscores the holistic approach adopted by the mission.

Key Attendees of the Meeting

The meeting witnessed the participation of several senior officials, reflecting the collaborative efforts across various departments and states:

• Smt. Richa Mishra, Joint Secretary and Financial Adviser, Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti
• Shri Nalin Kumar Srivastava, Deputy Director General, NMCG
• Shri Brijendra Swaroop, Executive Director (Projects), NMCG
• Shri Anup Kumar Srivastava, Executive Director (Technical), NMCG
• Shri SP Vashishth, Executive Director (Administration), NMCG
• Shri Bhaskar Dasgupta, Executive Director (Finance), NMCG
• Smt. Nandini Ghosh, Project Director, West Bengal SPMG
• Shri Yogesh Kumar Sagar, Managing Director, Bihar BUIDCO
• Shri Prabhash Kumar, Additional Project Director, Uttar Pradesh SMCG

These collective efforts are set to play a crucial role in ensuring the sustainable development and rejuvenation of the Ganga, aligning with the broader goals of the Namami Gange Mission.