Chhattisgarh's Dhamtari launches ‘MAA' to restore Mahanadi source focus on river revival, green cover & tourism development
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Dhamtari Collector Abinash Mishra said the comprehensive restoration of the Mahanadi's origin will include desilting the riverbed, reinforcing the banks, increasing green cover, beautifying the surroundings, making the area accessible to the public, developing the region, and involving the community in conservation efforts.
Mishra added that by revitalising the river's source, MAA aims to boost the region's popularity, transform the origin into a tourist attraction, improve agricultural output, enhance local livelihoods, and strengthen the regional economy.
The Mahanadi Awakening Abhiyan was inaugurated on 2 May. Thousands of villagers took part in the inaugural event across several villages in the Dhamtari district.
Mishra explained that the MAA campaign is a special initiative and an extended version of the state government's ongoing 'Mor Gaon, Mor Paani' campaign. Nearly 20 km of land alongside the Mahanadi, which is regarded as the lifeline of Chhattisgarh and one of India's ten largest rivers, will be developed under this drive.
He also noted that this is a major project being carried out scientifically for effective results.
In the past two months, cleaning, removal of encroachments, beautification, and tree plantation along the riverbanks have taken place. The Collector said ten villages, including Pharshiya, Sambalpur, Chikhli, and Ganeshwar, will benefit through sustainable development plans under the campaign.
A major focus will be the development of Karneshwar Mahadev Dham and Shringi Rishi Ashram, covering 1.5 km, as a tourist destination.
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Road widening and anicut (small dam) construction will also be undertaken. The campaign will also include measures to tackle water scarcity. Support is being received from educational institutions, NCC, NSS, various government departments, the public, and IIT Madras for technical expertise.
Mishra said this year-long awareness campaign is dedicated to rejuvenating the Mahanadi, which originates in Chhattisgarh, flows through Odisha, and empties into the Bay of Bengal. He described it as a collective movement to raise awareness, encourage participation, and build a sense of responsibility towards conserving and restoring the Mahanadi.
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