Government–Society Coordination is Necessary for Narmada Conservation : CM Dr. Yadav

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that the Narmada River is one of the life-giving rivers, and effective coordination between the government and society is essential for its conservation. He directed that concrete efforts be made to preserve and enhance the origin site of Maa Narmada, and that continuous action be taken to remove encroachments along the riverbanks.

Chairing the meeting of the Narmada Samagra Mission at Amarkantak, Chief Minister Dr. Yadav instructed officials to intensify public awareness efforts involving officials, public representatives, and members of the Special Area Development Authority to maintain the sanctity of Amarkantak and ensure protection of the river’s origin.

The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Forest and Environment and District In-charge Minister Shri Dilip Ahirwar, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Cottage and Village Industries Shri Dilip Jaiswal, Chairman of Narmade Har Seva Nyas and Madhya Pradesh Coal Development Authority (Cabinet rank) Shri Ramlal Rautel, former Janpad President Pushprajgarh Shri Hira Singh Shyam, along with other public representatives.

Reviewing efforts for forest conservation and promotion in the Amarkantak region, Chief Minister Dr. Yadav directed that the plantation of local species and medicinal plants be prioritised. Forest officials informed that special efforts are underway to conserve and enhance natural forests in the region. Local species such as sal, mahua, amla, char, harra and gulbakawali are being planted to strengthen groundwater levels and preserve natural forests. It was also informed that more than 2.5 lakh saplings are available in forest nurseries.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav directed strict restrictions on new construction activities in Amarkantak and emphasised that uncontrolled concrete construction must be prohibited. He instructed the Collector to take strict action against illegal encroachments at Amarkantak and the Narmada origin site from time to time. The Chief Minister reviewed issues related to pollution in the Narmada River, wastewater disposal and water management systems during the meeting. Officials informed that a sewage treatment plant has been established in Amarkantak, and sustained efforts are underway to ensure that polluted water does not enter the river.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that Amarkantak is a major religious and tourist town, home to several spiritual and mythological temples. He noted that large-scale construction activities by both local residents and outsiders are taking place and must be regulated in accordance with established norms. He also directed a strict prohibition on the use of plastic and liquor in the Amarkantak region. He instructed that “No Movement” and ‘No Construction’ zones be designated to preserve the area’s sanctity, environmental balance and cultural heritage.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav directed officials to ensure that no cement or concrete construction is undertaken in Amarkantak. Collector Shri Harshal Pancholi informed that a drone survey of the region has already been conducted, and any illegal construction is dealt with promptly. He also informed that a committee, chaired by the Commissioner, has been constituted to oversee the development of the Amarkantak Special Area Development Authority, the Nagar Parishad and temple infrastructure. The committee regularly reviews key aspects related to the development and conservation of Amarkantak.

Detailed discussions were held on important aspects such as trekking routes, fire safety monitoring and management, forest produce management, biodiversity conservation, wildlife movement and the condition of temples, ponds and ghats in Amarkantak. Necessary directions were issued.

During the review meeting, Padma Shri awardee and Vice Chairman of the Jan Abhiyan Parishad, Shri Mohan Nagar, shared information about community-led cleanliness drives at ghats and voluntary labour (shramdaan) activities under the Narmada Samagra Mission. Additional Chief Secretary, Urban Administration and Development, Shri Sanjay Dubey, briefed the meeting on ongoing and upcoming departmental works in Amarkantak.

  Additional Chief Secretary, Planning, Economics and Statistics, Shri Sanjay Shukla, apprised the meeting of the action plan and achievements related to the holistic development of the Narmada River. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Shri Sandeep Yadav briefed the meeting on biodiversity conservation and efforts to replace eucalyptus plantations with native species.

The meeting was attended by Shahdol Division Commissioner Smt. Surabhi Gupta, Inspector General of Police Sushri Chaitra N, DIG Savita Suhane, Superintendent of Police Shri Motiur Rahman, Divisional Forest Officer Shri David Venkatesh, District Panchayat CEO Smt. Archana Kumari, Additional Superintendent of Police Shri Jagannath Markam, along with officials from various departments and local public representatives.