Ranchi, June 14: In Garhwa district of Jharkhand, a campaign named ‘Apan Saraswatiya’ has been launched to save the existence of a river, with the collaboration of officials and the community.
Initiated by Garhwa Sub-Divisional Magistrate Sanjay Kumar, the campaign has been actively cleaning and de-silting various areas of the Saraswatiya River for nearly a week. Using JCB machines, the river is undergoing extensive cleaning. While government funds are typically allocated for cleaning drains in the state capital, Ranchi, the Saraswatiya River in Garhwa is being cleaned through the efforts of community volunteers along its 14-kilometer stretch. The name ‘Apan Saraswatiya’ reflects the sentiment that every citizen of Garhwa should feel a sense of ownership over this river, recognizing it as a shared heritage that we all must protect.
Historically, this river has held significant cultural importance. Just a week ago, it was filled with waste, but now, thanks to public cooperation, efforts are underway to restore its vitality. SDM Sanjay Kumar stated that as long as community support continues, the campaign will persist until the river is fully cleaned. He warned that individuals caught dumping waste, filling the river with soil, or disposing of construction materials will not only face fines but will also be responsible for the costs of waste removal. The municipal council has been instructed to install warning boards at various locations.
Meanwhile, Garhwa Deputy Commissioner Pashupati Nath Mishra emphasized that rivers are a state heritage and it is everyone’s responsibility to preserve them. He urged the public to maintain cleanliness, stating that while the cleaning work is expected to be completed in ten days, ongoing maintenance is a collective duty. He also warned that any attempts to encroach upon the river will result in action against the offenders.
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