Maharashtra needs river rejuvenation policy, says activist

Magsaysay award winning activist Rajendra Singh today asked Maharashtra Government to come out with a river rejuvenation policy and said corruption in irrigation projects has destroyed rivers in the State.
Singh, who has submitted a draft policy in this regard to the Government, lamented the condition of rivers in the State, saying they have either dried up or turned into nullahs.
The activist, called "Waterman" for his campaign towards water conservation, was interacting with reporters here in Central Maharashtra.
"If we do not rejuvenate them (rivers), the situation would become grim," he warned and called upon the State Government to announce a policy in this regard.

The noted water conservationist said he has revived rivers in Rajasthan and a similar project would be launched in Maharashtra.
He said his team, called Jalbiradari, is trying to replicate the Rajasthan pattern in Maharashtra and sought support from the Government and also people for his cause.

Rampant corruption in irrigation projects, which benefits contractors and politicians, has destroyed rivers in the State, Singh said.
"Irrigation projects are being made for benefit of politicians and contractors. As a result, rivers are being destroyed and crores of rupees are going down the drain."
He regretted that farmers do not choose the crop pattern as per the rain cycle.

Singh said the 2015 Kumbh Mela at Nashik should not be held unless the Godavari river is cleaned and made suitable for bathing. The Government and the people should take a pledge to clean the river and then hold the mega festival.
The water activist said flow of sewage and effluents in Godavari should be stopped so that the river's sanctity is maintained.
The youth can play an important role in rejuvenating and conserving rivers, Singh added.