Sabarmati River clean-up initiative commenced on Thursday with a critical first step—shutting down three storm water drainage outlets that had been discharging untreated wastewater directly into the river.
The clean-up, spearheaded by the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC), aims to restore the ecological balance of one of Ahmedabad’s most vital and historic water bodies, and comes at a time when environmental accountability is under increasing public and judicial scrutiny. On the first day of the operation, 76 tonnes of accumulated waste—comprising primarily plastic debris, discarded flags, and other solid pollutants—were extracted from the riverbed. The clean-up, which was launched from the rear side of Gandhi Ashram, marks the first large-scale public engagement with the Sabarmati since 2019, reigniting civic interest in environmental stewardship.
This drive follows sustained concerns about the river’s declining health, exacerbated by the continuous discharge of untreated storm water despite previous directives from the Gujarat High Court. The closure of the three drainage outlets, while significant, is only a partial solution. Several other drains continue to empty directly into the river, threatening the success of the operation if not addressed holistically. Heavy machinery, including JCBs, Hitachi excavators, and tractors, have been deployed for the effort, signalling the AMC’s intent to treat the clean-up as more than just a symbolic gesture. However, environmentalists have noted that unless the root problem of waste inflow is comprehensively resolved—particularly by intercepting and treating all storm water outlets—such drives may offer only temporary respite.
The clean-up of an 11-kilometre stretch along the Sabarmati Riverfront has been targeted for complete waste removal in the coming weeks. However, there are no current plans to deepen the riverbed, despite its having been last dredged over two decades ago during the initial phase of riverfront development. AMC’s Standing Committee Chairman, Devang Dani, acknowledged the growing demand for sustainable solutions, stating that any decision regarding dredging would be taken after consultations with the state irrigation department and the Ahmedabad district administration. This hints at a possible long-term approach that may integrate riverbed restoration with pollution control.
The Sabarmati has long served not only as a geographical landmark but also as a spiritual and cultural symbol, closely linked to the Gandhian legacy. Its degradation reflects a larger crisis faced by Indian rivers, many of which are choking on untreated sewage, plastic, and industrial effluents. The AMC’s renewed efforts represent a step in the right direction, but for the Sabarmati to truly breathe again, consistent and transparent governance backed by public participation will be essential. The clean-up is not merely about beautifying a stretch of the riverbank; it is a litmus test of urban India’s ability to transition toward zero-discharge cities that prioritise water security, environmental justice, and climate resilience. Whether this operation becomes a model or a missed opportunity will depend on the actions that follow.
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