Uttar Pradesh has achieved a significant milestone in its ecological restoration endeavours, witnessing the strategic planting of over 2.14 crore saplings along the banks of 82 rivers across the state. This expansive initiative is designed to breathe new life into dwindling river systems, bolster groundwater levels, and substantially enhance green cover through widespread afforestation drives. The concerted efforts underscore a robust commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable development, laying a critical foundation for creating more resilient and eco-friendly communities, particularly in rural areas.
Leading this transformative environmental campaign, Jalaun district spearheaded efforts by planting over 31 lakh saplings along its riverbanks, followed closely by Jhansi with 24 lakh and Hamirpur with more than 16 lakh saplings. This extensive drive forms an integral part of a broader, multi-faceted strategy aimed at rejuvenating rivers, optimising irrigation potential, and actively combating environmental degradation that has historically impacted rural landscapes. The comprehensive approach focuses on restoring neglected and encroached riverbeds to their natural ecological state, thereby contributing to the long-term health of these vital waterways.
The initiative is a collaborative undertaking, drawing synergy from multiple government bodies including the State Mission for Clean Ganga, Namami Gange, the Rural Water Supply Department, the Forest Department, and local District Ganga Committees. Beyond the extensive plantation efforts, complementary activities such as pond desilting are being systematically executed under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). This dual approach supports improved water retention capabilities and promotes overall ecological balance, while simultaneously generating employment opportunities for local communities, aligning with principles of equitable development.
Plantation drives are actively underway along prominent rivers such as the Ganga, Yamuna, Gomti, Saryu, Tamsa, Mandakini, Rapti, Betwa, and Ghaghra, alongside numerous smaller water bodies including Ishan, Noon, and Peeli Nadi. The project ensures that at least one river in every district is selected for rejuvenation, signifying a widespread and decentralised commitment to environmental repair. Early indicators from the ground suggest a positive impact on local groundwater tables, demonstrating the tangible benefits of enhanced green cover in hydrological cycles, critical for climate resilience and sustainable water management in human settlements.
The benefits of this monumental project extend far beyond immediate environmental gains. Improved water availability directly translates into better irrigation facilities for farmers, which in turn significantly boosts agricultural yields and strengthens rural livelihoods. By harmonising environmental repair with tangible economic upliftment, the plantation initiative is strategically laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient future across Uttar Pradesh. Continuous monitoring and inter-departmental coordination are central to the campaign’s success, aiming to further fortify river ecosystems and accelerate Uttar Pradesh’s journey towards becoming a greener, more environmentally conscious state, fostering healthy and prosperous communities.
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