Tourism will grow if rivers are clean: Namami Gange drive at Namo Ghat
Namami Gange leads a major cleanliness drive at Varanasi's Namo Ghat to protect the river and boost local tourism and the economy.
On the occasion of World Tourism Day, a significant cleanliness drive was launched at the iconic Namo Ghat in Varanasi to reinforce the vital link between environmental health and the travel industry. Under the Namami Gange program, volunteers and officials gathered to take a solemn pledge to purify the River Ganga, emphasizing that the prosperity of tourism is directly tied to the cleanliness of its rivers.
The Link Between River Health and Local Economy
Rajesh Shukla, the Namami Gange Kashi Region Coordinator and Municipal Corporation Cleanliness Brand Ambassador, led the initiative. He highlighted a crucial economic reality: clean rivers serve as a magnet for tourists, which in turn stimulates the local economy, creates jobs, and bolsters the entire tourism sector while preserving ecological stability.
Speaking at the event, Shukla noted the profound connection between water and human progress, stating:
"No civilisation can expand without rivers. The River Ganga is a symbol of India's cultural heritage that binds the nation together. Indian civilisation and tourism remain incomplete without Mother Ganga."
A Call for Responsible Pilgrimage
The drive was not just about physical cleaning but also about changing public behavior. As hundreds of tourists participated in the event, Shukla made an urgent appeal to pilgrims and travelers to act as responsible citizens. He urged visitors to take a pledge to refrain from throwing any form of waste or garbage into the holy river during their journeys.
The event saw active participation from several key figures, including:
- Avinash Tiwari
- Ruchi Pathak
- Goldy Pathak
- Avinash Pathak
- Vishal Bhardwaj
Post-Flood Cleanup Intensifies
Following recent floods, the Namami Gange initiative and the Varanasi Municipal Corporation have ramped up their efforts across the riverbanks. Specialized teams, including Gangaputras and dedicated volunteers, are working tirelessly to manage the aftermath of the rising waters.
Current operations include:
- Silt Removal: Clearing accumulated silt from the ghats and riverbed.
- Waste Management: Removing floating puja materials and flood-related debris from the water.
- Public Engagement: Encouraging local communities and visitors to actively participate in maintaining the sanctity of the river and its banks.
Through these coordinated efforts at various ghats, authorities aim to restore the pristine beauty of the Ganga, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of India's cultural and economic identity.