A significant environmental concern emerged after around 11,000 litres of milk were poured into the Narmada River in Sehore district of Madhya Pradesh during culmination of a 21-day religious ritual. While performed as a sanctification practice, environmentalists flagged that such large-scale discharge of organic substances can harm river ecosystems.
Environmental Impact
- Large quantities of milk increase organic load in water
- Leads to depletion of dissolved oxygen (DO)
- Causes stress to aquatic life and biodiversity
- Affects drinking water quality for local communities
- Can harm domestic animals dependent on river water
Highlights the conflict between traditional practices and environmental sustainability
Key Issue Highlighted
The incident underscores:
- Need for environmentally responsible religious practices
- Importance of river conservation awareness
- Balance between cultural traditions and ecological sustainability
About Narmada River
The Narmada River, also known as Rewa, is one of the most sacred rivers in India and the largest west-flowing river of the Indian peninsula. It is often referred to as the “Lifeline of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat”.
Origin
- Source: Narmada Kund in the Maikala Range
- Elevation: ~3,500 feet (1,080 m)
- Location: Anuppur district, Madhya Pradesh
Course
- Total Length: 1,312 km (≈815 miles)
- Flows through:
- Madhya Pradesh (major portion)
- Maharashtra
- Gujarat
- Basin extends to parts of Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan (via canals)
Total Tributaries: About 41
- Left Bank: Burhner, Banjar, Sher, Shakkar, Dudhi, Tawa, Ganjal, Chhota Tawa, Kundi, Goi, Karjan
- Right Bank: Hiran, Tendoni, Barna, Kolar, Man, Uri, Hatni, Orsang
Mouth
- Drains into the Arabian Sea via the Gulf of Khambhat
- Forms a wide estuary (~21 km) near Bharuch
- Unlike many rivers, it forms an estuary instead of a delta
Key Geographical Features
Rift Valley River: Flows through a rift valley between:
- Vindhya Range (North)
- Satpura Range (South)
Marble Rocks Gorge
- Near Jabalpur
- Deep gorge carved through limestone formations
Waterfalls: Famous Dhuandhar Falls
Estuarine Nature: High gradient and rocky terrain prevent delta formation
Significance of Narmada River
- Major source for irrigation, drinking water, and hydropower
- Key projects:
- Sardar Sarovar Dam
- Indira Sagar Dam
- Supports diverse ecosystems and livelihoods
- Region includes major sites like Statue of Unity tourism zone