C.R. Patil Chairs 14th Empowered Task Force Meeting on Ganga Conservation

Government Reaffirms Commitment to Ganga Conservation in 14th ETF Meeting, Emphasizes Technology-Driven Approach.

Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri C.R. Patil, chaired the 14th meeting of the Empowered Task Force (ETF) on Ganga conservation, reaffirming the government’s dedication to a cleaner and more sustainable river through an integrated and technology-driven approach. The Minister underscored the importance of time-bound execution of projects, stringent pollution control measures, and enhanced inter-ministerial coordination. He stressed leveraging advanced geospatial technology, real-time monitoring systems, and innovative conservation strategies to achieve long-term sustainability. The government remains committed to balancing development with ecological preservation, ensuring that conservation efforts support livelihoods, biodiversity, and cultural heritage.

The meeting witnessed the participation of key stakeholders, including Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Chaudhary, senior officials from various ministries, and representatives from state governments, highlighting a collaborative approach to advancing river rejuvenation efforts.

Review of Namami Gange Projects and Achievements

The Union Minister reviewed the progress of 492 projects under the Namami Gange Mission, with a total budgetary outlay of ₹40,121 crore across ten states. He acknowledged the mission’s significant strides in improving water quality and enhancing the river’s ecological health. Out of the total projects, 307 projects worth ₹19,478 crore have been completed, marking a crucial milestone in pollution control and water quality improvement.

The Minister highlighted major developments in sewage treatment infrastructure, noting that 3,346 MLD of sewage treatment capacity has been created, and 4,543 km of sewerage networks have been completed to prevent untreated wastewater discharge. These measures are essential for strengthening pollution control mechanisms and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Ganga ecosystem.

Ensuring Compliance with Environmental Flow (e-Flow) Norms

The ETF assessed compliance with Environmental Flow (e-Flow) norms, as per the 2018 Gazette Notification, ensuring regulated water flows from Devprayag to Haridwar and up to Unnao district in Uttar Pradesh. The Minister reviewed key e-Flow assessments for the Yamuna, Ramganga, Son, Damodar, Chambal, and Tons rivers, reinforcing the government’s commitment to scientific water management across India’s river basins.

Strict Industrial Pollution Surveillance and Reduction

The Minister conducted a detailed review of pollution control measures under the Namami Gange Mission. The seventh round of industrial inspections covered 4,246 Grossly Polluting Industries (GPIs) across the Ganga Basin. Out of these, 2,682 industries were found compliant with pollution control norms, while strict actions were taken against violators. The Minister reiterated that industrial monitoring and enforcement remain top priorities for restoring the purity of the Ganga.

Launch of GIS-Based Wetland Monitoring System

A major highlight of the meeting was the launch of a GIS Layer & Dashboard, marking a breakthrough in data-driven conservation. This advanced platform will serve as a real-time monitoring tool for wetlands, integrating wetland health scores, threat assessments, and priority classifications. The Minister emphasized the role of wetlands in flood buffering, biodiversity conservation, and groundwater recharge, directing states to accelerate efforts in notifying and classifying riverine wetlands to ensure long-term protection.

Utilizing Drone and LiDAR Technology for Drain Mapping

The Minister stressed the importance of Drone and LiDAR technology in precise drain mapping along the Ganga main stem. He urged stakeholders to contribute to data collection efforts and utilize this system to design effective interventions for pollution control and conservation. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology in environmental management.

Aquifer Mapping in the Ganga-Yamuna Doab

A comprehensive review was conducted on aquifer mapping efforts in the Ganga-Yamuna Doab, with a particular focus on the Prayagraj-Kanpur stretch. The study's key achievements include the development of a 3D resistivity map of aquifers and a paleochannel map, establishing crucial links between aquifers and river systems. 159 recharge sites were identified to enhance river flow, with directives for swift implementation of the Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) Plan.

Advancing Conservation Efforts through Technology and Innovation

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s focus on technology-driven conservation efforts under the Namami Gange Mission. Key strategies include GIS-based wetland monitoring, LiDAR drain mapping, aquifer recharge, and stricter pollution control. The mission remains committed to restoring and protecting the Ganga, ensuring a cleaner and healthier river for future generations.

Participation of Key Stakeholders

The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Secretary, Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Debashree Mukherjee; Secretary, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ashok Meena; JS&FA, DoWR, RD & GR, Richa Mishra; Director General, National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), Rajeev Kumar Mital; Director General (Tourism), Ms. Mugdha Sinha; and Joint Secretary, DDWS, Jitendra Srivastava. State-level dignitaries from Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Bihar also participated, ensuring an integrated and collaborative approach towards advancing river rejuvenation efforts.