Prayagraj: In a bid to breathe new life into Uttar Pradesh's small rivers that are on the verge of extinction, the government has launched a project to revitalize the Kilanhai River in the Kaushambi district of the Prayagraj division.
At one time, in addition to the Ganges, numerous other rivers flowed through the Kaushambi district, including the Yamuna, Sasur Khaderi, and Kilanhai. Many of these rivers, however, have either transformed into seasonal streams or are on the brink of vanishing entirely. As part of its resolve to transform these disappearing minor rivers into perennial water bodies, the government selected the Kilanhai River in Kaushambi district for revitalization.
Project Details and Nodal Agency
Manoj Verma, deputy commissioner (MGNREGA) Kaushambi, stated that the Kilanhai River, which historically flowed through 37 villages, was unanimously chosen for the initiative. A Detailed Project Report (DPR) is currently being prepared for the purpose. The Kaushambi district administration has chalked out plans to formulate a comprehensive blueprint for the revitalization of the Kilanhai River.
To translate the river rejuvenation campaign into reality on the ground, the Namami Gange and Rural Water Supply Department will serve as the nodal agency responsible for the restoration efforts. Moreover, the irrigation department, rural development, urban development department, minor irrigation department, and the department of environment, forest, and climate change will extend their cooperation to the Namami Gange and Rural Water Supply Department.
Geographical and Historical Context
The Kilanhai River originates from Jagannath Lake in the neighboring Fatehpur district. Its flow area spans the Sirathu, Manjhanpur, Nevada, and Chail blocks of Kaushambi. Historically, the river played a vital role in the region's ecosystem and agriculture, but due to neglect and climate change, it has been drying up. The revival project aims to restore its flow and ensure it becomes a perennial water source, benefiting local communities and biodiversity.
