Historic Revival of Manorama River Begins in Gonda through Community Effort

Gonda : The historic initiative to revive the ancient and culturally significant Manorama River in Gonda district was inaugurated through shramdaan (voluntary labor). This marks a key chapter in the Yogi government’s state-wide campaign for the conservation and rejuvenation of traditional rivers, gaining new momentum in Gonda under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The campaign kicked off in Sisai Bahlolpur village of Itiathok block and witnessed a model collaboration between administration and community.

Villagers, Youth & NGOs Join Hands in River Revival

More than 200 individuals—villagers, youth, village heads, volunteers, and local representatives—from blocks like Pandri Kripal, Itiathok, Rupaidih, and Mujhna participated enthusiastically in the shramdaan. District Magistrate Neha Sharma emphasized that the Manorama River is more than just a water source—it’s a symbol of cultural heritage and our coexistence with nature. She noted that restoring it is not just an administrative task but a collective responsibility of both government and society. Chief Development Officer Ankita Jain and other senior officials also attended the program.

Water to Flow Again in the Riverbed

A comprehensive and multi-dimensional action plan has been drawn up for the rejuvenation of the Manorama River. Under this plan, the river will be desilted and cleared of encroachments from Gonda-Balrampur Road to Tadi Lal village, allowing water to flow freely again. Cleaning efforts have already begun with the help of JCB and Pokland machines.

Additionally, indigenous trees like Peepal, Neem, and Pakad will be planted along both banks of the river to restore greenery and biodiversity. The Forest Department has been tasked with tree plantation, while the Irrigation Department will carry out technical assessments of the river’s flow path and structure. A robust coordination mechanism has been established to ensure smooth collaboration among various departments.

Public Participation at the Core of the Mission

Active participation from gram panchayats, social organizations, and volunteer groups is being encouraged so that the revival effort becomes a vibrant example of community-led environmental awareness, not merely a government program. DM Neha Sharma affirmed that this Manorama rejuvenation effort is a decisive step toward water conservation, sustainable development, and cultural resurgence—powered by public involvement.

Yogi Government’s Serious Effort to Preserve a Sacred River

The Manorama River holds immense historical and religious value. Stretching about 115 kilometers, it originates from the Tirre Taal in Gonda and merges with the Kuwano River in Mahuli, Basti district. In ancient scriptures, the river is associated with Rishi Uddalak’s daughter Manorama and has long flowed near Makhoda Dham, embodying the spirit of faith, devotion, and culture.

Over the years, unchecked encroachment, silt accumulation, and neglect have pushed this sacred river to the brink of extinction. The Yogi government’s initiative marks the first serious effort to restore the Manorama River, signaling Gonda’s resurgence as a hub of cultural awakening and ecological empowerment.