The final stages of North India’s pioneering river rejuvenation initiative, the ‘Devika’ project, are underway, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to dedicate it to the nation soon. Launched in February 2019, the project mirrors the successful ‘Namami Ganga’ model. Over the weekend, Union Minister of State Dr Jitendra Singh conducted an on-site inspection, overseeing the final touches to the Devika river rejuvenation project.
Addressing a long-standing demand for the renovation, rejuvenation, and beautification of the Devika river, Minister Singh highlighted that it was only after 2014 that this unique initiative in North India, inspired by Namami Ganga, took shape. During the comprehensive one-hour review, the Minister instructed officials from the Public Works Department (R&B) and Municipal Council Udhampur to ensure uninterrupted power supply through dedicated feeders, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining cleanliness and beautification of the ghat area.
Recognized as the sister of the sacred Ganga, the Devika river holds great religious significance. To preserve the sanctity of this holy river in Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir, a separate Liquid Waste Management (LWM) project has been initiated. The LWM project, executed by J&K’s Urban Environmental Engineering Department (UEED), involves the construction of a network of pipes and manholes connecting all households under the project.
With a total cost exceeding Rs 190 crore, the funding allocation is shared in a 90:10 ratio by the central government and the Union Territory, respectively. In addition to the Liquid Waste Management Project, a Solid Waste Management (SWM) project is also in the pipeline under the Devika Rejuvenation Project, contributing significantly to preserving the river’s sanctity, as highlighted by the Union Minister of State.
The comprehensive project encompasses the construction of three sewage treatment plants with capacities of 8 MLD, 4 MLD, and 1.6 MLD, a sewerage network spanning 129.27 km, development of two cremation ghats, protection fencing and landscaping, as well as the installation of small hydropower plants and three solar power plants.
Upon completion, the project aims to significantly reduce pollution levels and enhance the water quality of the rivers involved.