Home / Environment / NGT Cites 'Forcible Sealing' Threat to Betwa River
NGT Cites 'Forcible Sealing' Threat to Betwa River
3 Feb
Summary
- NGT directs MP govt to create district-wise action plan for Betwa river.
- Human interference has caused 'forcible sealing' at the river's origin.
- Restoration efforts include vegetative measures and soil conservation works.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has mandated the Madhya Pradesh government to implement a scientifically designed, district-wise action plan aimed at reviving the Betwa river's water flow and protecting its catchment areas. This directive comes in response to concerns over sustained human interference, including the alleged 'forcible sealing' of the river's origin and general ecological neglect.
The NGT emphasized that the revival of the Betwa river is a critical issue requiring scientific intervention for the river's survival. The proposed action plan will focus on vegetative measures and intensive soil and moisture conservation works within the river's catchment areas across various districts. These efforts are intended to significantly improve both surface and sub-surface water flow.
Specific attention will be given to the origin of the Betwa river in Jhiri village, despite its location within the protected Ratapani Tiger Reserve. Areas lacking vegetation near the origin will be prioritized for immediate intervention with mixed plantations of native species. Simultaneously, soil and moisture conservation techniques like contour trenches and check dams will be employed to enhance water percolation and reduce runoff velocity.
