Rally for rivers: Take a pledge today to save our rivers from dying

If you are concerned about India’s rivers, the simplest way you can participate in reviving them is by taking a pledge today and asking your friends and family to participate as well. On 2nd Oct 2017, the voice of the citizens supporting this campaign will be presented to the government for further action.

Today, India’s rivers are facing a grave crisis. They have depleted by over 40% since Independence. Great rivers like the Ganga, Krishna, Narmada and Kaveri are in danger. India per capita water availability has declined by 75% since 1947. By 2030, we will have only 50% of the water we need for our survival. In just one generation, our perennial rivers are turning seasonal. Many smaller rivers have already vanished. Almost every major river has become a point of conflict between states.

If we do not act now, the legacy we hand over to the next generation will be one of conflict and deprivation. These rivers nurtured and nourished us for thousands of years. It is time we nurture and nourish them back to health.

One very simple yet effective means to replenish our rivers is to create a kilometre-wide tree cover on riversides. Maintaining a substantial number of trees for at least one kilometre width along the riversides has vast environmental, social and economic benefits for nation and society.

• Healthy river systems safeguard our water and food for the present and future generations.
• Secure water resources are essential for individual wellbeing and India’s industry and commerce.
• Farmers’ incomes increase at least three to four-fold by changing from crop to organic fruit tree cultivation.
• Farmers, who are the largest section of India’s workforce, are also among the lowest earning groups. Increasing their income will create a huge positive impact.
• This will also diversify and boost India’s rural economy significantly.