Chandigarh: The Haryana government on Wednesday approved a proposal to engage IIT Roorkee to prepare a detailed scientific report on linking the Tons basin with the Saraswati basin, and devising a sustainable groundwater management plan, in a key decision aimed at ensuring perennial flow in the Saraswati River and boosting groundwater recharge. Chairing a meeting of the Haryana Saraswati Heritage Development Board, chief minister Nayab Singh Saini said the revival of the Saraswati was among the state government’s top priorities, describing the river as a symbol of India’s ancient civilisation and cultural heritage.The proposed consultancy will examine the feasibility of diverting water from the glacier-fed Tons River and other seasonal streams to the Saraswati, assess water availability and quality, and recommend scientific measures for long-term groundwater recharge. Officials said the study would provide the scientific basis for maintaining continuous flow in the river while improving water security in Haryana.
Chief minister Nayab Singh Saini said the revival of the Saraswati was among the state government’s top priorities
The chief minister also directed officials to expedite all ongoing works, including those at Adi Badri, and warned that delays or technical lapses in the construction of the Saraswati barrage would not be tolerated. He ordered regular project reviews and stressed timely completion of all works.Reviewing progress, officials informed the meeting that excavation of around 10 lakh cusecs of earth had been completed for the proposed 350-acre Saraswati reservoir, marking a major milestone in the river revival project.The board also reviewed an integrated development plan for Pehowa and the Saraswati corridor, including beautification of the Prachi Saraswati tributary, construction of ghats, bridges, riverfront facilities, cultural infrastructure and renovation of ancient temples. The projects are estimated to cost around Rs 56 crore and are expected to strengthen religious tourism in the region.In another key decision, the chief minister directed departments to ensure that no untreated sewage enters the Saraswati River. He ordered all sewage treatment plants (STPs) in the river catchment to remain fully operational through coordinated monitoring by municipal bodies, the Panchayati Raj Department and the Irrigation Department.To promote public participation in the revival drive, the govt also decided to install 40-50 information signboards highlighting the river’s historical, cultural and mythological significance at prominent locations.Saini said the Saraswati revival project would not only strengthen drinking water and irrigation resources, but also transform the region into a major religious tourism destination while improving groundwater levels across surrounding areas.
