River Devika Project: North India’s First River Rejuvenation Initiative

 

The River Devika Project is a landmark initiative in North India, aimed at rejuvenating the sacred Devika River in Jammu and Kashmir. Inspired by the successful ‘Namami Ganga Programme’, this project represents the first major river rejuvenation effort in the northern part of the country. Launched in February 2019, the project seeks not only to restore the ecological health of the Devika River but also to preserve its immense cultural and spiritual significance.

About the River Devika Project

• Modelled on Namami Ganga: The project is being implemented on the lines of the Namami Ganga Mission, a flagship programme for cleaning and conserving the River Ganga.
• Implementation Area: It is focused along the course of the Devika River in Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir.
• National Support: The project has been included under the Government of India’s National River Conservation Project (NRCP), highlighting its environmental and cultural importance.
• Launch Year: Initiated in 2019, the project is among the most ambitious river rejuvenation programmes in the Union Territory.

Major Components of the Project

The River Devika Project is designed with both environmental rejuvenation and tourism development in mind. Some key components include:

1. Sewage Treatment Infrastructure

   • Construction of three sewage treatment plants (STPs) with capacities of:
     • 8 Million Litres per Day (MLD)
     • 4 MLD
     • 1.6 MLD
   • These will significantly reduce pollution levels in the river.

2. Sewerage Network

   • Development of a 129.27 km long sewerage network to prevent direct discharge of waste into the river.

3. Ghats and Cremation Grounds

   • Development of bathing ghats along the river for religious and cultural practices.
   • Modernisation and beautification of two cremation grounds, equipped with facilities like protection fencing, landscaping, and state-of-the-art amenities.

4. Renewable Energy Integration

   • Establishment of small hydropower plants.
   • Installation of three solar power plants to ensure sustainable energy use.

5. Catchment Area Development and Encroachment Removal

   • Restoration of natural water bodies.
   • Removal of encroachments along the riverbanks to revive its natural course.
   • Protection and development of catchment areas for ecological balance.

Project Cost and Funding

• Total Cost: The project is being executed at an estimated cost of ₹190 crore.
• Funding Pattern: The cost-sharing ratio is 90:10 between the Central Government and the Union Territory administration of Jammu and Kashmir.

Expected Benefits of the Project

1. Environmental Impact

   • Reduction in river pollution.
   • Significant improvement in water quality.
   • Revival of aquatic and riverine ecosystems.

2. Cultural and Religious Benefits

   • Development of ghats and cremation grounds will support religious practices and enhance the spiritual aura of the river.
   • Preservation of the sacred identity of Devika, often revered as the “sister of Ganga.”

3. Tourism Development

   • Creation of a unique destination for both pilgrim tourism and recreational tourism.
   • Improved facilities will attract more visitors, boosting the local economy.

4. Modern Facilities

   • Cremation centres will be developed with state-of-the-art infrastructure, making them eco-friendly and accessible.

Key Facts about the Devika River

• Religious Significance: The Devika River is considered the sister of the Ganga River and holds immense spiritual value among devotees.
• Origin: The river originates from the Suddha Mahadev Temple, a revered shrine in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir.
• Course:
  • From Udhampur, it flows down into western Punjab (now in Pakistan).
  • Eventually, it merges with the Ravi River.
• Unique Feature: The river appears and disappears at multiple stretches along its course, due to which it is popularly known as the “Gupt Ganga” (Hidden Ganga).

Conclusion

The River Devika Project is more than just an environmental initiative—it is a fusion of cultural revival, ecological conservation, and sustainable development. By rejuvenating the Devika River, the government aims to restore its sacred identity while also ensuring a cleaner, healthier, and more vibrant ecosystem. Once completed, the project is expected to serve as a model for other river rejuvenation efforts in India, blending tradition with modern environmental science.