Community-Driven River Conservation: A Case Study of the Ganga Cleanliness and Awareness Drive at Brijghat, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

The Ganga River is central to India’s ecological, cultural, and socio-economic systems, yet it faces severe threats from pollution, urbanization, and unsustainable practices. This paper presents a case study of the “Ganga Cleanliness and Awareness Drive” organized at Brijghat, Uttar Pradesh, on 10^th October 2024, under the leadership of Teerthanker Mahaveer University’s Ganga Champions Club and the National Service Scheme (NSS). The initiative involved 57 participants, including students and faculty, divided into three operational teams that conducted plantation, cleanliness, and awareness activities. The methodology emphasized participatory approaches, environmental education, and skill enhancement. Key outcomes included plantation of 15 saplings tagged with QR codes, extensive cleaning of the Ghat and fountain areas and public awareness campaigns through street plays, poetry, and rallies. The active involvement of local vendors and residents highlighted the effectiveness of community engagement in fostering environmental stewardship. Comparative discussion with other river conservation efforts across India indicates that educational institutions can play a catalytic role in implementing the goals of the National Mission for Clean Ganga. The study concludes with recommendations for sustaining such initiatives through continuous monitoring, local community partnerships, and integration into institutional frameworks for environmental action.

Keywords: Ganga River, Brijghat, Community Engagement, Environmental Awareness, Namami Gange, River Conservation, Plantation Drive.