Q5(b). How is the National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD) managing water bodies in India?

“Rivers are not just water bodies; they are lifelines of civilisation.” UN Water Report

The National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti is responsible for restoring river health and improving water quality. It manages major rivers through pollution control, ecological restoration, and community participation.

Major Functions and Initiatives of NRCD

1. River Cleaning Under NRCP

NRCD implements the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) for rivers such as Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery, and Narmada. Activities include:

• Sewage treatment plants (STPs)
• Riverfront development
• Low-cost sanitation
• Crematoria modernization

2. Support to Namami Gange Mission

NRCD works closely with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG). By 2024, over 176 STPs have been commissioned along the Ganga basin to reduce pollution.

3. Wetland & Lake Restoration

NRCD collaborates with Wetlands Division for rejuvenation of lentic water bodies. Urban lakes in Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Sultanpur and Najafgarh wetlands in Haryana saw conservation measures.

4. Industrial Effluent Control

Imposes Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) norms, inspection of industrial clusters, and real-time monitoring of effluent discharge.

5. Community & State Partnership

Works with state pollution control boards, municipalities, and NGOs through awareness campaigns and river festivals.

NRCD adopts an integrated approach combining infrastructure, regulation, and community involvement, crucial for sustainable water body conservation.