The efficient management of floating waste in the Ganga during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, using smart solutions of engineering and technology, could serve as a model for cleaning polluted water bodies in and around Bhubaneswar.
Bhubaneswar, like many other growing cities, faces significant challenges in managing its water bodies. A recent report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) revealed that over 90 per cent of sewage from the state’s municipal corporations is discharged directly into lakes and rivers.
In Bhubaneswar alone, out of 216.51 million litres per day (MLD) of sewage waste generated, only 29.75 MLD is collected by the existing sewerage system, while the remaining 186.76 MLD is released untreated. The unchecked discharge of waste has severely affected water quality and contributed to the deterioration of urban water bodies.
In Prayagraj, continuous waste removal through trash skimmers has proven effective in keeping water bodies clean. These skimmers collect 10-15 tonnes of floating waste daily. The process involves patrolling the river, identifying floating debris such as floral offerings and plastic waste, and ensuring real-time removal. This approach can be replicated in Bhubaneswar, where a structured cleaning mechanism is essential to prevent further degradation of lakes and rivers.
Amrit Abhijat, Principal Secretary of the Urban Development Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh, said that river cleaning is not a one-time effort but requires a systematic approach to ensure long-term maintenance. He highlighted that the Prayagraj project demonstrated how modern technology and strategic planning can effectively restore and sustain water bodies.
Gaurav Chopra, Managing Director of Cleantec Infra, the company responsible for the Prayagraj project, said, “Managing floating waste in water bodies requires a structured and continuous approach. With the right engineering solutions and real-time waste removal mechanisms, it is possible to prevent accumulation and maintain cleaner rivers and lakes. The Prayagraj model has shown that efficient waste collection and disposal can significantly improve water quality, and this approach can be implemented in other polluted water bodies as well.”
With the right combination of waste management technologies, Bhubaneswar can protect and restore its urban water bodies, ensuring cleaner and healthier water systems for the city.
