Introduction
The Satsang Foundation (TSF), Namami Goda Foundation, and partner organizations have now taken the initiative to rejuvenate the Godavari River (the second longest river in India) at Brahmagiri, Trimbakeshwar in Nashik District, and through its downstream journey, so that it becomes a perennial river once more. The Aviral Godavari Committee – guided by Sri M and Dr. Rajendra Singh (leading the Tarun Bharat Sangh and also known as Jal Purush, the ‘Waterman of India’) – has begun its first phase by working towards reviving Brahmagiri, the origin of the Godavari, and rebuilding the capacity for water retention and groundwater recharge so that the streams and springs start flowing again.
Phase 1
Catering to the area between Brahmagiri and Ramtirth, the first phase includes various aspects:
- Restoration of existing water bodies and the creation of new ones;
- Using ‘Loose Boulder Dams’ or Bandhaaras to stem water flow, allowing better recharge of water underground,
- Planting grass to protect topsoil and reforestation activities to attract rainfall, restore the ecology of the area;
- Cleaning the existing water bodies and their surroundings to ensure that waste materials do not flow downstream into the river;
- Encouraging rainwater harvesting and ground water recharge; and
- Developing strong community ownership and building a community network fostering sustainable livelihoods and ensuring local maintenance and preservation of nature and infrastructure, including identification and enforcement of non-grazing areas.
“Brahmagiri ki Hariyali, Godavari ki Pavitrata” has emerged as the rallying cry of this noble project, encompassing all the workstreams.
The Aviral Godavari Mission is thus a multi-stakeholder initiative, bringing together many civil society organizations, socially and environmentally-conscious individuals, private companies, educational institutions and government departments. The aim is for the first phase to be completed before the next Kumbh Mela at Nasik in July 2027.
