The Uttar Pradesh government's 'One District-One River' campaign aims to clean rivers, revive disappearing water streams, and bring positive changes to the rural economy and ecological system, a spokesperson said on Wednesday.
Restoration Under Swachh Ganga Mission
The spokesperson further said that a transformative initiative for the restoration of small rivers across the state was launched under the Swachh Ganga Mission, the Namami Gange, and the Rural Water Supply Department, along with several other departments.
Success Stories from Pilibhit and Bulandshahr
In Pilibhit, the Gomti river was restored across a 47-km stretch covering 16 gram panchayats. In many places, the canal was widened and deepened. Along with this, the restoration of 23 ponds and construction of ghats helped the river regain its continuous flow. The initiative generated more than 1.53 lakh human-days of employment, while over 500 farmers adopted natural farming methods.
Likewise, in Bulandshahr, the Neem river was restored across 29 km through the 'VB-G RAM G' initiative. Farmers also voluntarily supported the campaign. Prime Minister Narendra Modi appreciated this initiative in 'Mann Ki Baat'.
Revival of Karwan, Kali, Sot, and Other Rivers
Similarly, the Karwan river and Kali river were also restored, where desilting, plantation drives, and community participation across dozens of gram panchayats helped revive irrigation, biodiversity, and cultural practices at the ghats. The Sot river in Sambhal, which was reduced to a small drain, was revived through public participation. In Rampur, three seasonal streams—Revati, Nahal, and Neeli—were rejuvenated through various measures.
Rajya Swachh Ganga Mission Project Director Joginder Singh said that excellent results emerged from the restoration of small rivers in Uttar Pradesh. These rivers, which had nearly disappeared, are now returning to their original form.
