Uttar Pradesh CM Compares River Systems to Body's Blood Vessels at 'Faith of Kumbh' Conclave

Prayagraj, Feb 16 (NationPress) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated on Sunday that over 52 crore devotees have participated in a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam during the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela.

This marks the largest gathering in human history for a religious event.

While inaugurating a climate conclave that focused on the role of religious leaders in environmental conservation and climate change mitigation, CM Yogi Adityanath highlighted the urgent need to protect nature, which is confronting severe challenges such as pollution, over-extraction, and climate change.

He voiced his concern regarding the drying of rivers and called for immediate collective efforts to revitalize the rivers and their ecosystems.

"River systems are akin to the blood vessels of our body. If these vessels become blocked or contaminated, the body will perish. Similarly, if tributaries and rivers are polluted or obstructed, they will also perish," he remarked, urging faith leaders, scientists, and researchers to find solutions for siltation and pollution in rivers.

The Chief Minister mentioned that the government has mechanized the channelization and dredging of the Sangam bank.

"The flow of the river at Triveni Sangam has significantly increased," he noted.

Triveni Sangam, a sacred confluence of three rivers—the Ganges, Yamuna, and the 'mystical' Saraswati—is situated in Prayagraj.

Officials informed IANS that prior to the Mahakumbh 2025, the three streams of the Ganga were merged into a single flow, transforming Sangam into more than just a river; it has become a lifeline for millions, a symbol of cultural and spiritual heritage, and a vital ecological system that supports life.

CM Yogi Adityanath stated that the government has initiated multiple sapling plantation drives to enhance forest cover.

"A total of 210 crore saplings were planted throughout the state in the past eight years with a survival rate of 70-80 percent," the Chief Minister added.

He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for instituting a ban on single-use plastics.

Stressing the importance of preserving nature, which is crucial to mitigating the increasing frequency of natural disasters, CM Yogi Adityanath recalled that two years ago, 90 individuals lost their lives due to lightning strikes within hours across regions from Mirzapur (Uttar Pradesh) to Bihar.

"We have installed weather early warning systems, but more installations are necessary," he remarked.

The Mahakumbh 2025, recognized as the world's largest spiritual gathering, hosted its inaugural conclave.

Organized by the state Directorate of Environment and supported by the environmental research organization iFOREST, the event titled 'Faith of Kumbh and Climate Change' attracted over 1,000 participants and 30 speakers from religious institutions, government bodies, civil society, and academia.

This climate conclave is timely as global challenges of climate change and environmental degradation are intensifying.

With its profound connection to sacred rivers and spiritual traditions, the Kumbh Mela presents a remarkable platform to shift societal consciousness.

Recognizing this as an ideal opportunity to mobilize climate action, the Uttar Pradesh government orchestrated the event.

"Our Upanishads teach us that the entire world is a creation of the Almighty. We should use it responsibly, not exploit it. 'Vasudaiva Kutumbakam' views the world as one. Our rivers, animals, forests, and all life forms in this ecosystem contribute to the environment as much as they take from it. Even the tiniest creatures like bees give back," stated Swami Mukundananda, Founder of Jagadguru Kripalu Yog Trust.

"At this critical juncture, when the climate crisis affects every corner of the globe, religious and spiritual leaders must play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable practices and climate action," asserted Manoj Kumar Singh, Chief Secretary, while unveiling the 'Mahakumbh Declaration on Climate Change'.

The conclave aims to connect the sacred with the sustainable, recognizing that faith communities, with their moral authority and grassroots outreach, are vital allies in combating the climate crisis.

"We have honored the creator for so long; we must not overlook the creation. It is imperative to preserve and protect it. If we continue on this path, we could lose the Ganga and the Yamuna forever. They will become mere tales. Our nation can only progress if our environment does," remarked Swami Chidanand Saraswati, President of Paramarth Niketan.

"Religion and faith possess immense potential to sway society. Climate action will not succeed unless it resonates culturally and emotionally with the populace. Unlike scientists or policymakers, faith leaders know how to communicate effectively with the people," noted Chandra Bhushan, President and CEO of iFOREST.

A key focus of the conclave is the Uttar Pradesh government's commitment to 'green' religious institutions.

The state envisions transforming religious centers and shrines into models of sustainability. This involves the installation of solar panels, the implementation of rainwater harvesting systems, waste recycling, the prohibition of single-use plastics, and the creation of green zones around sacred spaces.

The state's commitment also encompasses funding faith-based organizations to advance environmental and climate education, campaigns, and actionable practices.

Initiatives such as eco-friendly pilgrimages, green festivals, and sustainable temple management can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with religious practices.

(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in)