Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai calls for mass campaign to protect rivers at Source Mahotsav 2026
While speaking at ‘Source Mahotsav 2026’ and Chhattisgarh state-level workshop held in Raipur, the Chief Minister of the State Vishnu Deo Sai said that the rivers are not just water but are the lifelines of civilisations, culture, agriculture and prosperity.
The event was held at Omaya Garden in Jalandhar with the aim of mapping the river sources and catchment areas, encourage/advocate water harvesting and recharging, and make a movement for water conservation popular. The workshop was inaugurated by the Chief Minister who lit a ceremonial lamp.
Attending the gathering, Vishnu Deo Sai pointed out that the identity of Chhattisgarh as a “rice bowl” of India has been intertwined with the rivers since time immemorial. He underlined that the conservation of the rivers which had been supporting the civilization of this state, its agriculture and its livelihoods is in the hands of all humanity.
The state government is giving top priority to the conservation of river sources and catchment area using scientific approach, modern technology, traditional knowledge and engagement with the local public, said the Chief Minister.
He emphasised that conservation of a river shouldn’t be confined to the corridor of a river. The health of its source and catchment ecosystem is also crucial. To deeply grasp the ecosystem of a river and ensure its protection, a comprehensive approach is required.
Sai identified five columns to be looked at surrounding river conservation in the state – mapping, conservation, recharge, public participation, action plans. Clarification of river origin, flow regimes, land-use changes and natural flow regimes will be scientifically mapped in rivers and river catchment areas.
Proposed conservation measures are protecting forests and vegetation, and preventing soil erosion, supporting the restoration of traditional water structures, establishment of new water-harvesting structures where needed, and encouraging deliberate recharge to the groundwater system.
Sai also pointed out that rain water was important, and that more opportunities needed to be created to get more rain water on the ground rather than allow it to get to the creeks too fast. This can help increase the amount of groundwater, bring water back to the sources, and maintain flows for rivers longer, he said.