Namami Gange Mission 2.0
The Namami Gange Mission 2.0 (NGM 2.0) is an extension of the original Namami Gange Programme initiated in 2014. This mission aims to effectively reduce pollution and rejuvenate the River Ganga. It is set to continue until March 2026. The mission is managed by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti and is fully funded by the central government.
Key Objectives
NGM 2.0 focuses on several critical areas. These include sewage treatment, riverfront development, river surface cleaning, afforestation, and biodiversity conservation. The mission’s multifaceted approach seeks to restore the ecological and cultural significance of the Ganga.
Project Implementation
As of February 2024, NGM 2.0 has initiated 457 projects, with 280 already completed. The establishment of 139 District Ganga Committees has facilitated local oversight of these initiatives. This local governance ensures that projects align with community needs and environmental standards.
Major Projects and Achievements
In the second half of FY 2024–25, seven major projects were completed. These projects are situated in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Delhi. They focus on preventing sewage from entering rivers, thereby enhancing water quality. The total capacity for sewage treatment under NGM 2.0 has reached 3722 MLD, with 157 sewage treatment plants (STPs) commissioned.
Notable STPs
- In Farrukhabad, a 47.70 MLD STP was established at a cost of ₹261 crore. This facility contributes to restoring the Ganga’s natural purity.
- In Ayodhya, a 33 MLD STP was built for ₹222 crore, aiming to clean the Saryu River. Similarly, in Muzaffarnagar, a 32.50 MLD STP was completed for ₹234 crore to rejuvenate local rivers.
- In Bihar, the Bakhtiyarpur area saw the construction of a 10 MLD STP for ₹85 crore. Fatuha and Phulwari Sharif also received STPs, further enhancing local drainage systems. These projects are designed under the DBOT (Design-Build-Operate-Transfer) model.
Significant Developments in Delhi
Delhi boasts Asia’s largest STP, with a capacity of 564 MLD, completed at a cost of ₹666 crore. This project focuses on conserving the Yamuna River and adheres to NGT norms, utilising A2O technology.
Financial Overview
The total expenditure on completed projects in FY 2024–25 amounted to ₹3,184 crore. This investment reflects commitment to achieving cleaner rivers and improved urban sanitation.
Future Prospects
The completion of these projects marks substantial progress toward the mission’s goals. They enhance urban sanitation and reinforce the objective of sustainable river rejuvenation.
Month: Current Affairs - April, 2025
Category: Government Schemes Current Affairs