Fig. 6: Project in a nutshell

Fig. 6: Project in a nutshell

Key Outputs

y In the last seven years of its implementation, the Namami Gange Mission has significantly increased the wastewater treatment capacity of the basin. y As of date, it has sanctioned the creation of 5024 MLD treatment capacity in the basin. y Innovative best practices such as the HAM-PPP model and OCOP model have led to greater ownership and sustainability of assets. y Over the years, multiple interventions have been rolled out, leading to the improvement of river water quality.

Æ The DO (dissolved oxygen) level, which should be more than 5 mg/l, has now been successfully achieved throughout the length of the river.

Æ The BOD (biochemical oxygen demand) level is also under the set standards, i.e., 3 mg/l, except at two stretches of the river, where it is just exceeding the limit ranging from three to five.

Æ Additionally, water quality has reached Class A, the highest standard up till Haridwar, Uttarakhand which has been a big achievement for the mission. y Namami Gange has released several Charters for implementation of cleaner technology, upgradation of the treatment facility and adoption of waste minimization practices in the major industrial sectors such as Pulp & Paper, Distilleries, Sugar and Textile, resulting in a significant reduction in wastewater discharge and pollution load.

Æ A Charter for Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) in molasses-based distilleries has been formulated.

Æ Zero Liquid Discharge status through Reverse Osmosis (RO)/Multi-Effect Evaporator (MEE) or only MEE followed by bio-composting and/or incineration has been achieved.

Æ A 35.57% reduction in spent wash generation has accordingly been observed in distilleries.

Æ Reutilization of treated water in the process and non-process activities has led to a reduction in freshwater consumption.

Æ Distilleries have shifted to cleaner technologies viz., Fed-batch/ continuous fermentation & Multi Pressure distillation. y Based on the Detailed Project Report by FRI, scientific afforestation has been carried out in partnership with State Governments. This has led to the plantation of over 1.6 Cr trees spread across a 30,000 Ha area. y There has been an overall improvement in the health of the river.

Æ An increase in sightings of several species such as the Indo- Gangetic Dolphin, Hilsa, Turtles, Otters, etc. has been reported, indicative of the health of the river.

Æ The success of the Kumbh Mela, with millions of devotees coming together to perform rituals and bathe in the river and appreciating the improvement in water quality of the river in a very short period. y The NMCG and its legal framework have been crucial in promoting cooperation at the basin level and thus ensuring a progressive approach towards the attainment of SDGs through G-Governance. Outcomes Achieved

River rejuvenation is much more than just pollution abatement and is never a one-time effort. It is a continuous process that spans decades and requires immense collaboration and stakeholder engagement throughout the process. In a very short period, the Namami Gange mission has made significant achievements as part of ongoing restoration activities.