Uttar Pradesh Accelerates River Rejuvenation: Loni River Restoration Begins in Prayagraj’s Shankargarh Region
#Prayagraj | #RiverRevival | #SustainableDevelopment
In a landmark initiative to restore vanishing small rivers and rejuvenate the ecological balance in rural Uttar Pradesh, the district administration of Prayagraj has kicked off an ambitious project to revive the Loni River, regarded as the lifeline of Shankargarh in the trans-Yamuna region.
Flowing through 14 village panchayats, the Loni River stretches over 32.5 kilometers. The restoration campaign, now officially underway in the Gadha Katra village panchayat, aims to restore natural water flow, strengthen water conservation, and promote sustainable livelihoods for communities along its banks.
“A detailed and integrated plan has been prepared to bring the Loni River back to life,” said Chief Development Officer (CDO) Harshita Singh.
CDO Harshika Singh added, “This project is not just about reviving a river, it’s about reviving hope, biodiversity, and long-term environmental health for the entire region.”
#CommunityDrivenEffort: Citizens Called to Action
Recognizing the importance of collective participation in ecological restoration, the district authorities have invited village heads, elected public representatives, Self-Help Groups (#SHGs), and voluntary organisations to join the mission and make it a people-led success.
The Loni revival plan includes:
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Excavation and deepening of the riverbed under the #MGNREGA scheme
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Tree plantation drives along both banks
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Construction of embankments for flood prevention and soil conservation
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Removal of encroachments that disrupt the river’s natural course
“The monsoon season brings life to the Loni through feeder streams,” officials said.
“However, unchecked blockages and sedimentation have long disrupted its natural flow. This effort will remove all such obstructions and restore the river’s vitality.”
#ModelForSuccess: Lapari and Karnawati Rivers Already Restored
The Loni river revival is the latest chapter in a series of successful restoration efforts across #PrayagrajDistrict. Earlier this year, two other small rivers—the Lapari and Karnawati—were brought back from the brink of extinction.
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The Lapari River, originating in Koraon, traverses 18 km and passes through 12+ village panchayats before merging with the #BelanRiver.
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The Karnawati River, approximately 19 km long, flows through over 15 villages in the #MandaRegion.
Both rivers were once reduced to dry beds, but now flow vibrantly after extensive work involving local communities, heavy manual excavation, and dedicated afforestation efforts.
#GreenEmployment: MGNREGA as an Engine of Change
The river restoration projects have also become a source of sustainable rural employment under #MGNREGA, with the Loni and other river projects collectively generating:
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Over 44,539 person-days of employment
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A budget allocation of ₹102.44 lakh
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40,000+ trees planted along restored riverbanks
This dual-purpose strategy has not only revitalized rivers but also ensured income support to thousands of rural workers, helping uplift local economies while addressing climate resilience and water security.
#WaterConservation | #RiverRejuvenation | #ClimateAction | #MGNREGASuccess | #CleanRiversUP | #PrayagrajInitiative | #JalShakti | #EcologicalRestoration | #CommunityParticipation | #GreenFutureIndia
