Patna's Run for Ganga Marathon 2026 Draws 500 Participants for River Conservation
In a significant push for environmental awareness, the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Sanatani Ganga Foundation jointly organized the 'Run for Ganga Marathon 2026' on Tuesday. The event, held on the JP Ganga Path, aimed to promote cleanliness and river conservation as part of the Swachh Survekshan 2026 initiative, drawing enthusiastic participation from the community.
Event Details and Participation
The marathon featured a 4-kilometer course that stretched from the JP Ganga Path roundabout to LCT Ghat, attracting a total of 500 runners and skaters. Sponsored by the State Bank of India, the competition offered a prize pool of Rs 50,000, which was distributed among the top performers in both categories, incentivizing active involvement in the cause.
Flag-Off and Dignitaries
The event was officially flagged off by prominent local figures, including Digha MLA Sanjeev Chaurasia, Mayor Sita Sahu, and Deputy Mayor Reshmi Chandravanshi. Their presence underscored the civic commitment to the Ganga's preservation, with Mayor Sahu emphasizing the river's cultural significance to Patna and Deputy Mayor Chandravanshi highlighting the marathon's role in boosting public participation in sanitation efforts.
Winners and Awards
In the marathon category, Vishal Chauhan emerged as the winner, followed by Ajit Kumar in second place and Nutan Kashyap in third. For skating, Saanvi Chauhan secured first place, with Mayan Milind and Aarav Kumar taking the subsequent positions. The top three marathon finishers received cash awards of Rs 25,000, Rs 15,000, and Rs 10,000, respectively, while skaters were honored with mementoes for their performances.
Key Messages from Officials
During the occasion, Digha MLA Sanjeev Chaurasia stressed that environmental protection is a collective responsibility of all citizens, urging broader community engagement. Mayor Sita Sahu reiterated the PMC's dedication to maintaining the Ganga as a foundational element of the city's heritage, and Deputy Mayor Reshmi Chandravanshi added that the primary goal was to enhance local sanitation through increased public involvement.
Community Engagement and Support
The competition saw attendance from members of the municipal standing committee, ward councillors, and various city officials, reflecting a unified effort towards river conservation. This event not only promoted physical fitness but also served as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of keeping the Ganga clean, aligning with national cleanliness campaigns.
Overall, the Run for Ganga Marathon 2026 successfully combined sports with environmental advocacy, fostering a sense of civic duty among Patna's residents while contributing to the Swachh Survekshan 2026 objectives.
