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Heval River Springs Back to Life!
2 Nov
Summary
- Heval river revived using rainwater harvesting and afforestation.
- 126 springs and 28 streams rejuvenated since 2019 project.
- Project aims to support over one lakh people through livelihoods.
The Heval river, a vital tributary of the Ganga in Tehri Garhwal, has experienced a remarkable revival thanks to a comprehensive conservation project initiated in 2019. This effort, involving villagers and forest officials, employed integrated springshed and watershed management techniques, including rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and extensive afforestation across a 26,000-hectare catchment.
The project has yielded significant results, with 126 springs restored and 28 streams rejuvenated. Third-party assessments indicate an approximately 60% increase in spring discharge. This success is critical for the more than one lakh people who rely on the river for agriculture, horticulture, and livestock rearing.
Community involvement is central to the initiative, with 34 Heval Dhara Sanrakshan committees established. These groups, particularly women, are engaged in conservation and livelihood activities, leading to reduced water-fetching time and increased irrigated land. The project also promotes dairy farming, beekeeping, and ecotourism.
While celebrating the revival, veteran activists highlight ongoing threats such as quarrying, construction, and waste dumping, which continue to endanger the river's health. The Heval river's history is intertwined with the Chipko movement, emphasizing the deep connection between forests, soil, water, and air.
