Jal Shakti Ministry launches a portal to ecologically monitor river Ganga during the review of the Namami Gange Mission projects. 

Environmental flows or E-flows Monitoring System

• About: This system allows real-time analysis of water quality in the Ganga, Yamuna, and their tributaries.
  • It is an integral component of the PRAYAG portal, which monitors water quality and sewage treatment facility performance along the Ganga River.
• Developed by: The National Mission for Clean Ganga, an arm of the Jal Shakti Ministry.
• Use: 
  • Water Quality Analysis: It enables Real-time analysis of the water quality of the Ganga, Yamuna, and their tributaries. The river water quality is also monitored at various locations.
  • Monitoring of Namami Ganga Programme: It also allows monitoring of the Namami Gange programme activities at the central level. 
  • Ensuring optimal performance of STP’s: This includes monitoring the performance of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), and ensuring that they operate at their rated capacity.
  • Planning of Projects: This will aid the planning and monitoring of projects, river water quality, and other key parameters

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Need for E-Flow Monitoring Systems

• Concerns about impeding flow: There were concerns raised by several environmentalist groups that dams along various stretches of the river were impeding its flow and destroying its ecology.
• Mandate of the Centre: In 2018, the Centre mandated minimum e-flow for various stretches of the Ganga river to be maintained year-round. 
• Specifications laid down by NMCG: The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) laid down the flow specifications essential for preserving the river’s ecological balance, safeguarding aquatic life, and ensuring sustainability amidst diverse water usage demands.

• Ensure Sustainable flow of Ganga River: It is a significant step towards ensuring the continuous and sustainable flow of the Ganga River.
• Track Key Parameters: This system is intended to monitor critical parameters of the Ganga river’s flow using data obtained from the Central Water Commission  across 11 projects along the Ganga mainstream.

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Conclusion

Innovative solutions are needed to ensure the Ganga river’s ecological health through effective monitoring and management measures.

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