Afforestation, dolphin revival show life returning to Ganga under Namami Gange: NMCG

Business To Business, New Delhi, 14^th June, 2026:    The National Mission for Clean Ganga> has reported significant ecological improvements along the Ganga River under the Namami Gange Programme, pointing to large-scale afforestation and the recovery of key aquatic wildlife, including the endangered Gangetic dolphin.
In a message marking 12 years of the Namami Gange programme, the NMCG contrasted the river's past ecological decline with recent restoration efforts. The agency noted that riverbank forests had diminished over decades, contributing to soil erosion and habitat loss, while sightings of Gangetic dolphins and fish populations had become increasingly rare.
According to the NMCG:

• 33,024 hectares of forest cover have been developed along the Ganga's banks through afforestation efforts.
• 6,324 Gangetic dolphins were recorded in India's first nationwide survey of the species.
• The return of dolphins is being viewed as an indicator of improving river health, since the species is highly sensitive to pollution and habitat degradation.

• Stabilize soil and reduce erosion.
• Filter pollutants before they reach the river.
• Improve biodiversity by providing habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife.
• Enhance groundwater recharge and ecosystem resilience.