HP Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today launched the “Giri Ganga Water Source Restoration Campaign” at the sacred Giri Ganga site, situated at approximately 9,000 feet in the Jubbal sub-division of Shimla. Marking the start of this environmental initiative, the Governor participated in a cleanliness drive and planted a chinar sapling within the temple complex, reinforcing the campaign’s message of ecological and spiritual harmony.
The event, organized by Home Guards, Civil Defence, Fire Services, and SDRF in collaboration with local Mahila Mandals, focused on reviving traditional water sources and conserving forests. The Governor urged women’s groups to lead the movement, emphasizing their vital role in both environmental protection and combating substance abuse in society.
“Water is the source of life; we must protect it with faith and action,” the Governor said. He highlighted the cultural and spiritual significance of Giri Ganga, calling it a heritage site and a symbol of the state’s deep connection with nature.
Governor Shukla stressed the urgent need to protect and rejuvenate traditional water sources in light of climate change and resource depletion. He commended the proactive role of civil services—traditionally known for emergency responses—in taking forward the cause of ecological preservation.
ADGP Satwant Atwal informed that under Phase 1 of the campaign, 950 traditional water bodies have been identified, with 236 already cleaned. Giri Ganga is the 237th restored site under this initiative. She acknowledged the Mahila Mandals for their leading role and announced they will also act as “monitors” to ensure the sustained upkeep of these water bodies.
The Governor called upon the youth and local communities to take a pledge for tree and water conservation, stating, “Water conservation must become a people’s movement, not just a government initiative.”
The event was attended by key officials including Secretary to the Governor C.P. Verma, local panchayat representatives, members of Mahila Mandals, Home Guards Commandant Kuldeep Kapil, SDRF Superintendent Arjit Sen, and President of Giri Ganga Eco-Tourism Society Lokpal Sharkholi.
हिमाचल में 1 जून से 500 एमएल प्लास्टिक पानी की बोतलों पर प्रतिबंध, गार्बेज बिन अनिवार्य
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
