India Launches $1.35bn Project to Rejuvenate the Ganges River

India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has announced a $1.35bn (£1bn) project to rejuvenate the Ganges River. The Ganges, which is considered sacred by Hindus, has been heavily polluted in recent years due to industrialisation and population growth. The project aims to reduce pollution levels and improve the river's flow by building new treatment plants and ensuring proper waste management.

The project, called the Namami Gange Programme, was first launched in 2014 but has been criticised for not delivering on its promises. However, Modi has said that the new funding will help to accelerate the project's progress and ensure that it is completed by 2024.

The Ganges River is a vital source of water for millions of people in India, but its pollution levels have caused serious health problems and environmental damage. The new project aims to address these issues by improving the quality of the river's water and protecting its biodiversity.

Modi has also announced plans to build new infrastructure along the river, including walkways, cycle paths, and eco-tourism facilities. This is intended to boost local economies and encourage people to appreciate the river's natural beauty.

The project has been welcomed by environmental campaigners, who have long called for action to be taken to clean up the Ganges. However, some have expressed concern that the project may not go far enough, and that more needs to be done to tackle the root causes of pollution.

In conclusion, the Namami Gange Programme is an ambitious project that aims to rejuvenate the Ganges River and improve the lives of millions of people in India. The funding announced by Modi is a significant investment in the country's environment and infrastructure, and it is hoped that the project will be successful in reducing pollution levels and protecting the river's biodiversity. However, it is clear that more needs to be done to tackle the root causes of pollution and ensure that the Ganges remains a vital source of water and a sacred site for generations to come.