A Dying River: A Case Study of River Asi

Rivers are essential for human civilization, as they provide water, food, transportation, and cultural significance. One of the most important rivers in India is the Ganga, which flows through several states and supports millions of people. However, the Ganga and its tributaries are facing severe pollution and degradation due to rapid economic development and urbanization.

One such tributary is the River Asi, which joins the River Ganga in Varanasi, a holy city for Hindus. The Asi River is only 8 km long and has a catchment area of 22 km², but it is heavily polluted by domestic and industrial waste, sewage, and religious offerings. The river has lost its natural flow and biodiversity and has become a foul-smelling drain.

The pollution of the Asi River has serious consequences for the environment and human health. It affects the quality and availability of water for drinking, irrigation, and groundwater recharge. It also poses risks of waterborne diseases, loss of livelihoods, and displacement of communities. It is damaging the cultural and religious value of the river, which is considered sacred by many Hindus.

This paper will examine the impact of economic development on the River Asi and the population surrounding the river system. It will analyze the causes and effects of pollution, the challenges and opportunities for restoration, and the policy and legal frameworks for river management.