Mumbai, May 23: A two-day national conference on river and mountain conservation commenced in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, bringing together environmentalists, legal experts, social activists, and public representatives from across the country. The event emphasized the urgent need for separate and robust legislation to protect rivers and mountains.
Held at Motilal Nehru Public School in Sakchi, the conference featured Rajendra Singh, a Magsaysay award winner known as the ‘Water Man.’ He criticized both central and state governments for their environmental policies, stating that despite numerous laws established over the past 77 years, no substantial legislation has been enacted to preserve rivers and mountains.
Singh argued that existing laws offer only makeshift solutions while nature continues to be exploited. He cited the Aravalli mountain range, noting that while thousands of mines were closed due to Supreme Court intervention, subsequent rulings have limited the definition of mountains, promoting exploitation rather than conservation.
He warned that under the guise of sustainable development, nature is being further exploited. Former Supreme Court Justice V. Gopala Gowda highlighted that even after seven decades of independence, the country has failed to create specific laws for the protection of rivers and mountains. He urged the President and Prime Minister to take initiative on this issue and called for a special session of Parliament to draft relevant legislation.
Gowda cautioned that without timely and concrete actions, rivers and mountains will gradually disappear. Saryu Rai, the MLA from Jamshedpur West, echoed these concerns, stating that the condition of rivers and mountains is deteriorating. He mentioned the Swarnrekha River, which was once vital for local communities but is now polluted.
Rai also expressed concern over rampant deforestation in Sahibganj, asserting that effective conservation is impossible without strong laws. Environmentalist Dinesh Mishra emphasized the need to view rivers not merely as resources but as mothers. Meanwhile, Bolishetty Satyanarayana, national coordinator of the ‘Water Community,’ stated that mountains must be preserved to ensure safe rainfall and water sources.
Professor Anshumali from IIT (ISM) Dhanbad reported a concerning 70% reduction in the length of the Damodar River. Experts at the conference stressed the necessity for widespread public awareness, scientific studies, and a robust legal framework for the conservation of rivers and mountains.
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