U.P. eyes ensuring zero discharge into rivers, implements multi-layered approach including drone survey
The Uttar Pradesh government said on Saturday (June 13, 2026) that a comprehensive action plan is at work to ensure zero discharge into rivers, using drone survey models across multiple districts to get there.
400 km of river surveyed
"Drone surveys covering over 400 kilometers of the Ganga, Yamuna, Gomti, Varuna, and Pandu rivers have injected fresh momentum into rejuvenation efforts. Surveys conducted in major cities such as Lucknow, Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Kanpur have enabled precise assessment of river conditions, identification of pollution sources, and mapping of drain discharge points. Kanpur, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Hardoi, Ballia, Meerut, Mirzapur are among the districts set to benefit first from this initiative. Based on the drone survey findings, a comprehensive action plan is being prepared to ensure zero discharge into rivers. Once implemented, the rivers in the district are expected to achieve zero-discharge status," said Anurag Srivastava, Additional Chief Secretary, Namami Ganga and Rural Drinking Water Supply Department, Uttar Pradesh.
LiDAR and drone imagery feed a live drain dashboard
Joginder Singh, Project Director of the State Mission for Clean Ganga, said the state is using advanced geospatial technologies to support research-driven and evidence-based planning under the Namami Gange Programme, generating precise geospatial datasets that feed a live GIS-based Drain Dashboard with 2D and 3D visualisation for basin-level pollution monitoring.
"High-resolution aerial surveys have been completed along the Ganga main stem in Uttar Pradesh, generating precise geospatial datasets that are being integrated into a live GIS-based Drain Dashboard with 2D and 3D visualisation capabilities. The dashboard enables basin-level pollution monitoring, identification of hotspots and prioritisation of drain remediation measures. It is the first of its kind initiative where LiDAR based scientific data has been coupled with visual data generated through drone surveys. We are doing timely field-level validation by District Ganga Committees, effective coordination and participation to ensure targeted interventions and strengthened drain-based pollution management. The initiative will particularly help in preparation of comprehensive and accurate DPRs with identification of primary, secondary and tertiary drains and pollution load which it is carrying," said Mr. Singh, a 2015-batch Indian Administrative Service officer who is Special Secretary, Namami Ganga and Rural Water Supply Department.
From military reconnaissance to river restoration
"In line with this vision, the identification of drains and pollution control measures has become more efficient. A drone-based, integrated rejuvenation action plan will not only rejuvenate rivers but also simultaneously create opportunities for cleanliness, employment, and environmental protection in rural regions," Mr. Singh said.
"The advent of digital imaging drone technology is revolutionizing the planning, execution, and monitoring of river restoration initiatives. Initially utilized for military reconnaissance, contemporary drones are lightweight, digitally stabilized, and frequently enhanced with AI, rendering them effective instruments for environmental conservation."