Pushing the Flow: Minister Patil Champions Tech for River Rejuvenation

Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil chaired a high-level review meeting on July 9, 2025, in New Delhi to evaluate the integration of technology and innovation in river rejuvenation efforts under the Namami Gange programme.

The meeting underscored the importance of applying scientific tools for the sustainable management of India’s river systems, with a particular focus on small rivers. Minister Patil commended research-led collaborations by institutions such as IIT (BHU) and IIT Delhi, and urged all stakeholders to accelerate the adoption and scaling of innovative, technology-driven solutions to achieve the national goal of an “Aviral aur Nirmal Ganga” (continuous and unpolluted Ganga).

Key developments presented included the Small Rivers Management Tool (SRMT)—a decision support system (DSS) piloted for the Varuna River, designed for scalability across other catchments. The tool includes modules for population forecasting, water demand and supply analysis, sewage load assessment, and prioritisation of sewage treatment plants (STPs).

The meeting also highlighted advancements such as managed aquifer recharge (MAR) supported by real-time hydrogeological modelling, and two significant projects: Hydrogeological Modeling in the Varuna Basin and Fingerprint Analysis of Emerging Pollutants in the Ganga Basin.

IIT Delhi outlined its proposal for establishing a Centre of Excellence under IND-RIVERS, focused on emerging technologies including AI, digital twin modelling, and advanced pollution treatment methods.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.