River Side Cleaning – A Priority In Urban Waste Management

Rivers are the lifeblood of our planet, nurturing a diverse array of species and providing essential resources for both nature and humanity. However, these invaluable waterways face numerous threats, including pollution, waste accumulation, and neglect. That's why it is crucial to prioritize the regular cleaning and maintenance of river banks.

River banks serve as vital habitats for a wide range of plants and animals, from fish and birds to insects. Neglecting the cleaning of these areas can result in the buildup of trash, debris, and pollutants, which can harm or even devastate these delicate ecosystems. By consistently cleaning river banks, we can contribute to the preservation of biodiversity and safeguard the delicate balance of these natural habitats.

Trash and debris that accumulate along river banks often find their way into the water, leading to pollution and the contamination of aquatic ecosystems. Plastics, chemicals, and other pollutants not only degrade water quality but also pose significant threats to aquatic life and human health. Cleaning river banks helps prevent these pollutants from entering the water, thereby mitigating the harmful effects of pollution on both the environment and public health.

Over time, debris and vegetation can accumulate along river banks, obstructing the natural flow of water and increasing the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall or storms. Regularly cleaning river banks involves removing these obstructions, allowing water to flow freely and reducing the likelihood of flooding. This not only helps protect nearby communities and infrastructure but also minimizes the economic and social impacts of flooding events.

While continuous efforts are required to keep river banks clean , the first step to river bank cleanup is to advocate, sensitive citizens living near the area or community & create protective measure so that waste & litter aren't thrown across river banks.And so volunteering activities contribute to the much needed awareness in this direction .

In Pune, Adar Poonawalla Clean City Initiative ( APCCI) has been participating in river bank cleaning activities conducted by various organisations and NGOs. Recently APCCI participated in a series of cleanliness drives at river bank at Kalyani Nagar, the drive being led by Saksham and Wing Commander Puneet Sharma(Retd) Swachh Pune Swachh Bharat along with Being Volunteer , Robin Hood Army, Inqalab Jayate, Kalyani Nagar Citizens Group , Seva Deep, Aradhana Skills.  At Aundh APCCI teamed up with various organisations in a river side clean up drive organised by PMC at Maling Ghat along with Jeevitnadi Living River Foundation, SwaCH, Sunday Hikers and Rotaract Club of Aundh SmartCity .