Ranchi: The Jharkhand Forest Department has launched a large-scale initiative to make major rivers like the Swarnarekha and Damodar pollution-free and free from encroachment. The campaign aims to restore the natural flow and ecological health of rivers that have been severely affected by industrial waste and illegal occupation.
The initiative was announced in Jamshedpur, focusing on river origin points to ensure long-term environmental protection.
Forest Department Orders Survey of River Origins and Confluence Points
State Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Sanjeev Kumar has directed all forest divisions to conduct a detailed survey of:
- River origin points
- Confluence (sangam) areas
- Encroachment zones
- Pollution sources
Forest Divisional Officers (DFOs) have been instructed to submit detailed reports on the current condition of these sites at the earliest.
Once the survey is completed, the department will begin removing illegal encroachments and cleaning polluted stretches of rivers.
Anti-Encroachment and Clean-Up Campaign to Restore Rivers
As part of the mission, authorities will:
- Remove illegal settlements near riverbanks
- Clean accumulated waste from water bodies
- Restore natural river flow
- Prevent further pollution at source points
The Forest Department will also involve local communities, NGOs, and environmental groups to ensure long-term protection and awareness.
Officials believe that public participation will be key to sustaining clean and healthy river ecosystems.
Riverfront Eco-Zone Planned at Domuhani, Jamshedpur
Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (RCCF) Smita Pankaj described the initiative as an important step in addressing climate change and global warming.
She proposed developing the Domuhani area (confluence of Swarnarekha and Kharkai rivers in Jamshedpur) into a green riverfront eco-zone.
This eco-zone could help:
- Reduce urban temperatures
- Improve environmental balance
- Boost green cover in the region
- Promote eco-tourism and recreation
Encroachment Linked to Flood Risk and Pollution: Officials
DFO Saba Alam Ansari of Jamshedpur stated that encroachment along riverbanks disrupts the natural flow of rivers. During heavy rainfall, this leads to:
- Increased flood risk
- Severe soil erosion
- Uncontrolled waterlogging
He also highlighted that untreated waste from illegal settlements directly enters rivers, worsening pollution levels.
Removing encroachments will help restore natural water absorption, improve groundwater recharge, and reduce water scarcity in surrounding areas.
Ecological Benefits and Tourism Potential
The initiative is expected to bring major environmental improvements, including:
- Restoration of aquatic biodiversity
- Return of natural habitats for birds and wildlife
- Better groundwater levels
- Reduced pollution in urban areas
Additionally, developing parks, walkways, and eco-tourism facilities at Domuhani could generate new employment opportunities and boost local tourism.
Major Rivers of Jharkhand and Their Origin Points
- Swarnarekha River – Nagri (Ranchi)
- Damodar River – Khamarpat Hills
- Barakar River – Padma Region
- South Koel River – Nagri Area
- North Koel River – Chainpur Area
- Sankh River – Raidih (Gumla)
- Kharkai River – Simlipal Hills
The Jharkhand Forest Department’s initiative marks a significant step toward restoring the ecological health of major rivers. By targeting pollution at the source and removing encroachments, the state aims to revive river ecosystems, improve groundwater levels, and create sustainable urban green spaces for future generations.
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