Nashik witnessed a major river conservation initiative on Thursday as a massive clean-up drive was conducted along the Nandini river, a tributary of the Godavari, to mark World Environment Day. The event, spearheaded by state water resources and Kumbh Mela minister Girish Mahajan, saw extensive public participation across multiple locations in the city.
Large-Scale Public Participation
Over 15,000 residents and volunteers joined the drive at approximately 13 key sites along the 16-kilometer stretch of the Nandini river in Nashik. The campaign drew support from thousands, including social organizations, students, civic staff, and citizen groups. Clean-up activities were conducted simultaneously at several river stretches, from its origin to the confluence with the Godavari, focusing on removing plastic waste, garbage, and debris from the riverbed. According to Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) officials, around 50 tonnes of waste were collected during the drive on Friday.
Minister's Involvement and Vision
Minister Girish Mahajan actively participated in the drive, visiting multiple locations and interacting with volunteers. He emphasized that river cleaning must transcend symbolic campaigns and evolve into a sustained public movement. "Protecting rivers is a collective responsibility, and the response seen during the clean-up drive reflects public commitment towards environmental conservation," he stated. Mahajan announced that similar drives would be undertaken every three months. He also highlighted ongoing measures to curb river pollution ahead of the Kumbh Mela, including sewage treatment and projects worth approximately Rs 2,200 crore aimed at improving water quality in the Godavari basin.
Awareness and Youth Engagement
The campaign also focused on raising awareness about plastic-free surroundings, water conservation, and eco-friendly practices. Notably, participation from youths and students was particularly high, signaling increasing public engagement in environmental issues. Officials noted that the large turnout and coordinated effort across locations marked a significant step toward restoring the health of the Nandini river and strengthening broader initiatives for clean rivers and a sustainable urban ecosystem in Nashik.
Dignitaries Present
Nashik mayor Himgauri Aaher, deputy mayor Vilas Shinde, and standing committee chairman of NMC Machhindra Sanap were among those present during the Nandini river clean-up drive.
Firearm Discovered During Clean-Up
During the drive, a firearm was discovered at the site where Minister Girish Mahajan was present. The weapon was immediately brought to his attention, and under his guidance, local police were alerted. Officers subsequently took custody of the firearm to initiate necessary legal procedures. Senior police inspector (PI) Srinivas Deshmukh of Mumbai Naka police station stated, "Given the rusted condition of the firearm, it appears someone may have dumped it two to three years ago. It looks more like an air gun. Since the weapon was not found in anyone's possession, no case has been registered so far, and it has been seized as an unclaimed object." The Mumbai Naka police added that the weapon will be sent to a forensic laboratory for further examination.
