Haryana and Uttarakhand Forge Partnership to Revive Saraswati River
In a significant inter-state collaboration, the governments of Haryana and Uttarakhand have initiated joint steps to revive the legendary Saraswati river. This ambitious project follows a high-level meeting held in Haridwar, where officials from both states finalized a detailed blueprint for the river's restoration.
High-Level Discussions and Scientific Foundation
The move was catalyzed by discussions between Dhuman Singh Kirmach, vice-chairman of the Haryana Sarasvati Heritage Development Board (HSHDB), and Manu Gaur, adviser to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Officials confirmed that both state governments are now developing an inter-state framework aimed at reviving the river's flow and restoring its profound cultural significance.
Scientific inputs from premier institutions have provided crucial insights. According to Kirmach, data from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Geological Survey of India (GSI) indicate that the Saraswati is believed to have originated from the Bandarpunch glacier in Uttarakhand, similar to the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. This scientific backing forms the cornerstone of the project, which will explore methods to channel water from this river system towards Haryana.
Political Will and Hydrological Strategy
The initiative gained momentum after Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini wrote to the Uttarakhand government on the matter, leading to the neighboring state's agreement to proceed with the proposal. This political alignment underscores the commitment to a shared vision for river revival.
The plan involves a comprehensive hydrological strategy. Key components include harnessing water from the Tons river, described as a major perennial tributary, along with smaller streams in Uttarakhand. This water will be directed towards Haryana as part of the proposed revival of the Saraswati river system. Additionally, HSHDB is working on linking multiple tributaries to the network, enhancing the project's scope for broader hydrological and cultural restoration.
Expert Consultations and Future Prospects
To strengthen the scientific basis of the project, officials are consulting experts from IIT Roorkee and the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology. These collaborations aim to ensure that the revival efforts are grounded in robust research and sustainable practices.
The joint initiative represents a landmark effort in inter-state cooperation, blending modern science with cultural heritage. By focusing on both the hydrological and symbolic aspects of the Saraswati river, Haryana and Uttarakhand are setting a precedent for similar restoration projects across India.
