Haryana Approves Saraswati River Revival Plan, IIT Roorkee to Prepare Detailed Report

The Haryana government has announced a series of major decisions to accelerate the revival and long-term development of the Saraswati River. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said the project is not only aimed at preserving the state's cultural heritage but also at improving water resources, boosting religious tourism and strengthening groundwater recharge.

Chairing a meeting of the Haryana Saraswati Heritage Development Board in Chandigarh, the Chief Minister reviewed the progress of the ongoing restoration work and approved several new initiatives to take the project forward.

Government Calls Saraswati Revival a Top Priority

During the meeting, Nayab Singh Saini described the Saraswati River as an important symbol of India's ancient civilisation and cultural heritage.

He said the river's revival remains one of the Haryana government's key priorities. Along with protecting its historical significance, the project is expected to create long-term benefits in water conservation, irrigation and regional development.

The Chief Minister also released a report highlighting the board's achievements and reviewed future plans related to the river's restoration.

Adi Badri and Pehowa Projects to Be Fast-Tracked

The Chief Minister directed officials to speed up all pending works, particularly those related to Adi Badri, which is considered a significant location in the Saraswati revival project.

He also instructed authorities to improve cleanliness at religious sites in Pehowa, saying better civic management would support both pilgrims and tourism.

Officials informed the meeting that construction of a 350-acre Saraswati Sarovar is progressing steadily. Around 10 lakh cubic metres of earthwork has already been completed, marking a significant milestone for the project.

Barrage Construction to Move Ahead Without Delay

Reviewing the progress of the proposed barrage, the Chief Minister instructed the Irrigation Department to complete the work within the scheduled timeline.

He said there would be no compromise on construction quality or project deadlines. Officials were asked to conduct regular reviews and closely monitor implementation.

The meeting also discussed several development projects in Pehowa, including the beautification of the Prachi Saraswati channel, construction of riverfront steps, cultural event facilities and other tourism-related infrastructure. These projects are estimated to cost around ₹56 crore.

Riverfront Development and Heritage Conservation Planned

Officials informed the Chief Minister that modern ghats and bridges will be developed along the river to improve accessibility and visitor facilities.

The government also plans to restore ancient temples, clean and beautify ponds, strengthen water conservation structures and continue river cleaning and boundary demarcation work.

In addition, authorities are considering the development of a museum and interpretation centre in Pehowa to showcase the historical and cultural importance of the Saraswati River.

Awareness Campaign to Highlight Saraswati's Heritage

The Haryana government also plans to increase public awareness about the river's historical significance.

The Chief Minister directed officials to install large information signboards at 40 to 50 important locations around the river corridor. These boards will explain the historical, religious and cultural importance of the Saraswati River and encourage public participation in its conservation.

Government Orders Strict Pollution Control Measures

To protect the river from pollution, the Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure that all liquid waste management systems near the river remain fully operational.

He also directed authorities to prevent untreated wastewater from nearby villages from entering the river under any circumstances.

Departments including municipal bodies, Panchayati Raj institutions and the Irrigation Department have been asked to coordinate the maintenance of sewage treatment plants (STPs). Officials will also regularly monitor water quality to ensure environmental standards are maintained.

IIT Roorkee to Study Water Linkage and Groundwater Recharge

One of the key decisions taken during the meeting was the approval of a proposal to seek technical support from IIT Roorkee.

The institute will prepare a detailed scientific report on connecting the Tons Basin with the Saraswati Basin to ensure sustainable water flow into the river.

The study will examine how water from the Tons River and seasonal streams can be channelled into the Saraswati system. Researchers will also assess water availability and quality while recommending scientific methods to improve groundwater recharge and strengthen long-term water security.

Officials said the report would provide a strong scientific foundation for the Saraswati River revival project and help ensure continuous water flow while improving groundwater levels across nearby regions.