Nag River Receives ₹61.96 Crore for Rejuvenation Efforts

The Nag River rejuvenation initiative has gained momentum with the approval of ₹61.96 crore in funding from the Centre, the Maharashtra government, and the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC). This financial boost is aimed at expediting efforts to restore the river and mitigate pollution, which has plagued it for years.

The funding will be released through the Centre’s SNA-SPARSH system, a mechanism designed to enhance transparency in government payments. The Maharashtra environment department has confirmed that the transactions will be processed via the Reserve Bank of India, ensuring that the funds are allocated appropriately for the project's needs.

This allocation is part of a larger ₹1,927-crore rejuvenation project for the Nag River, which is critical for addressing pollution and restoring the river's ecological balance. The financial contributions are proportionate, with the Centre providing ₹37.18 crore (60%), the Maharashtra government contributing ₹15.49 crore (25%), and the NMC adding ₹9.29 crore (15%).

The approval of this funding is seen as a crucial step forward after a lengthy wait, with more than ₹78 crore earmarked for consultancy costs to be covered directly by the Centre. Additional works related to the project will be undertaken in separate phases, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the river's restoration.

The Nag River holds historical significance for Nagpur, and the rejuvenation project aims to address the severe pollution it has experienced over the years. This coordinated effort among central, state, and municipal authorities is expected to significantly improve the river's condition and ecological health, benefiting the local community and environment.