What is Ganga Action Plan?
The Ganga action plan was, launched by Shri Rajeev Gandhi, the then Prime Minister of India on 14 Jan. 1986 with the main objective of pollution abatement, to improve the water quality by Interception, Diversion and treatment of domestic sewage and present toxic and industrial chemical wastes from identified grossly polluting units entering in to the river. The other objectives of the Ganga Action Plan are as under.
Control of non-point pollution from agricultural run off, human defecation, cattle wallowing and throwing of unburnt and half burnt bodies into the river.
Research and Development to conserve the biotic, diversity of the river to augment its productivity.
New technology of sewage treatment like Up-flow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) and sewage treatment through afforestation has been successfully developed.
Rehabilitation of soft-shelled turtles for pollution abatement of river have been demonstrated and found useful.
Resource recovery options like production of methane for energy generation and use of aquaculture for revenue generation have been demonstrated.
To act as trend setter for taking up similar action plans in other grossly polluted stretches in other rivers.
The ultimate objective of the GAP is to have an approach of integrated river basin management considering the various dynamic inter-actions between abiotic and biotic eco-system.
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What is Ganga Action Plan?
Ganga Action Plan is a comprehensive initiative launched by the Government of India in 1985 to address the pollution and degradation of the Ganges River, also known as the Ganga. The aim of the plan is to clean and restore the river to its pristine state and ensure the sustainable management of its resources. It is a multi-phase program that focuses on both the conservation and rejuvenation of the Ganges River basin.
Phase I:
The first phase of the Ganga Action Plan was implemented between 1985 and 2000. It primarily focused on the treatment of municipal sewage and industrial effluents discharged into the river. Efforts were made to set up sewage treatment plants (STPs) and industrial wastewater treatment plants (ETPs) in the cities along the river to prevent the direct discharge of pollutants.
Phase II:
The second phase of the Ganga Action Plan was launched in 1993 and extended until 2008. It aimed to further expand the sewage treatment infrastructure and address the issue of non-point sources of pollution, including agricultural runoff and solid waste management. Emphasis was placed on improving the quality of water in the river by reducing the pollution load.
Phase III:
The third phase of the Ganga Action Plan was initiated in 2009 and is ongoing. It focuses on the holistic management of the river basin and aims to incorporate various aspects such as riverfront development, biodiversity conservation, and public participation. The plan also includes measures to promote awareness and community involvement in the conservation efforts.
Key Initiatives:
1. Construction of sewage treatment plants and wastewater treatment facilities to treat domestic and industrial waste before it enters the river.
2. Setting up monitoring stations to regularly assess water quality and identify pollution sources.
3. Promotion of bioremediation techniques, such as the use of biofilters and eco-sensitive zones, to enhance the natural purification capacity of the river.
4. Implementation of solid waste management systems to prevent the dumping of waste into the river.
5. Riverfront development projects to improve the aesthetics and recreational value of the river while ensuring its ecological integrity.
6. Conservation and restoration of wetlands and floodplains to enhance the natural ecosystem services provided by the river.
Conclusion:
The Ganga Action Plan is a significant initiative undertaken by the Government of India to combat the pollution and degradation of the Ganges River. Through its various phases and initiatives, the plan aims to restore the river's health and ensure sustainable management of its resources. However, the success of the plan relies on effective implementation, community participation, and continuous monitoring to safeguard the Ganga for future generations.
What is Ganga Action Plan?
An ambitious plan to save the river is called Ganga Action Plan.It was launched in 1985 to reduce the pollution level in river.However,the increaseing population and industrialisation have already damaged this mighty river beyond repair.Ganga at Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh has one of the most polluted stretches of the river.Kanpur is the most polluted town in U.P.People can be seen bathing ,washing clothes and defecating in the river.They also throw garbage,flowers,idols of God's and goddesses and non biodegradable polythene bags into the river .The industrial units discharge toxic chemicals and wastes into the river.Due to these activities the water in Ganga is polluted.Ganga Action Plan is related to reduce pollution in Ganga.
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