Ancient Indian civilizations once thrived along the banks of the country's many rivers, solidifying a connection between water and culture that endures to the present. Rivers have been integral to India's diverse communities, serving as essential resources for daily life and spiritual practice. Historically, these water bodies experienced an entrenched sense of custodianship; being cared for collectively by the communities that depended on them. Today, responsibility for the rivers shifts between the hands of multiple stakeholders, calling for a joint endeavor that acknowledges their cultural significance.
India's rivers have fallen victim to pollution, ecological degradation, and diminishing water levels. The broader implications on public health and environmental sustainability are cyclical. Untreated sewage and industrial effluents are frequently released into these rivers, significantly degrading water quality. Meanwhile, illegal settlements and unplanned development encroach upon riverbeds and floodplains, disrupting natural ecosystems and also subjecting themselves to harmful water resources.
