Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati River clean-up drive concluded after removing over 945 tonnes of waste, including 166 tonnes of plastic, from a 6-kilometre stretch—short of the planned 11 kilometres. While the operation showcased strong civic participation, concerns remain about the limited coverage and the long-term impact on the river’s pollution and ecological health.
The clean-up campaign, jointly led by the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation Ltd (SRDCL) and the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), lasted 20 days and focused on the heavily polluted section between Subhash Bridge and Ambedkar Bridge. Although the initial plan was to clean an 11-kilometre stretch, officials halted the operation after just over half that distance, sparking debate about the campaign’s overall efficacy. The Sabarmati River, recently identified as the second most polluted river in India by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), has long reflected the environmental challenges posed by rapid urbanisation and inadequate waste management.
Authorities reported the removal of diverse waste, including 86 tonnes of fabric, 90 tonnes of wood debris, and 608 tonnes of other solid waste alongside the significant plastic haul. Despite the impressive tonnage, environmental experts warn that one-off clean-ups are insufficient to reverse the river’s deteriorating condition. Many have called for a continuous monitoring system supported by transparent data and stronger enforcement against illegal dumping and sewage discharge upstream. The clean-up drive began on May 14 but was delayed by high water levels, with active waste removal starting on May 15. According to AMC, more than 100,000 volunteers participated by June 4, underscoring strong public engagement. However, questions persist about how such large-scale citizen efforts can be sustained and integrated with systemic pollution controls.
Officials said the operation ended after clearing up to Sardar Bridge, following consultations with the irrigation department. Water, temporarily drained to facilitate the clean-up, has now been reintroduced into the river. This coordinated approach, while effective in the short term, must be part of a larger strategy for river restoration. Urban planners highlight that lasting improvement depends on robust urban governance tackling industrial pollutants, unregulated sewage outlets, and riverbank encroachments. Ahmedabad’s campaign has drawn attention nationally as other Indian cities face similar waterway degradation and waste management crises.
The Sabarmati clean-up marks a critical step towards ecological restoration, but it also highlights the ongoing challenge cities face in balancing development with environmental stewardship. As climate pressures intensify, sustained and integrated efforts will be crucial to protect vital river ecosystems and ensure urban sustainability.
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