The River Just Flows -(Mitali Mahanta)

Water is the second most essential component of life after air. According to mythology, Lord Vishnu first took the form of a fish in the water. Modern science also proves that the first living beings were created in water. Aquatic unicellular organisms represent the earliest stages of life. Around 20% of the world’s life depends on water. 71% of Earth’s surface is water, out of which 0.49% is carried by rivers. There are a total of 165 major rivers in the world. The Nile of Africa is the longest river in the world with a length of 6,853 km. India’s Ganges ranks among the world’s top 20 rivers by flow capacity. The Brahmaputra of Assam, India, holds the position of the second-largest river in India, spanning 2,525 km in length but only 916 km within Assam. Rivers are considered to be one of the factors that influence the socio-economic and cultural aspects of a country. In ancient times, rivers played a pivotal role in defining the geographical boundaries of states. They contributed significantly to the geographical environment of territories and shaped the livelihoods of local inhabitants. Moreover, rivers became primary sources of income for people residing in those areas. Riverine regions enjoyed temperate climates, rendering them suitable for human settlements and agricultural activities. The ancient civilizations of the world flourished along riverbanks due to these favorable conditions. These areas also served as preferred habitats for various animals and birds, resulting in remarkable biodiversity within the sanctuaries located there.

Throughout history, rivers have played a crucial role in agriculture, providing sustenance and livelihoods for people. River water carries sediment that fertilizes the lands along its banks, contributing to the fertility of the soil. This makes agriculture thrive in these regions. River water is widely regarded as one of the most effective sources of irrigation, supporting crop growth and ensuring successful harvests. In arid regions, river water serves as a vital source of irrigation. In India, irrigation projects such as the Damodar Valley Project on the Damodar River in West Bengal and Jharkhand, the Chambal Project on the Chambal River in Rajasthan, and the Nagarjun Sagar Dam on the Krishna River in Andhra Pradesh have successfully transformed dry areas into productive agricultural regions. Agricultural regions worldwide, whether large or small, are invariably associated with their own rivers. These water bodies support thriving ecosystems, with many individuals finding employment opportunities in activities related to aquatic life, particularly in the fishing industry. For countless communities residing along riverbanks, these waterways represent their primary source of income. Alongside fishing, some individuals engage in water transportation, utilizing boats to traverse rivers and secure their daily livelihoods. This reliance on rivers for sustenance is a universal phenomenon, fostering economic activities and shaping the way of life for countless people.

Rivers have been a source of diverse resources that have enriched human lives in numerous ways. Among the most significant contributions is the generation of hydro power. In the modern world, electricity is an indispensable part of human life. By harnessing the power of fast-flowing rivers through dams, people have successfully generated electricity, thereby enhancing convenience and speed in daily activities. The Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River in China is the largest hydroelectric dam in the world. The strategic value of rivers has led to the establishment of major commercial cities along their banks. Examples include Wuhan in China on the banks of the Yangtze River, London along the banks of the Thames, New York on the Hudson, Italy on the banks of the Seine, Delhi on the banks of the Jamuna in India, and Guwahati on the Brahmaputra. The beauty of the river banks also gives rise to the tourism industry and shapes the lifestyles of the people. The river also has an indirect impact on the busy lives of the residents of the commercial cities. Rivers also become the identity of a place. China cannot be imagined without the Huang He River. Similarly, India cannot be imagined without the Ganges, and Assam without the Brahmaputra. These rivers have held a profound significance as symbols of identity for both the Indian and Assamese people since ancient times. The Ganges stands as India’s national river, deeply intertwined with the fabric of Indian life. The sacred texts of Hinduism, including the Vedas and Upanishads, were authored in the ashrams of sages along the banks of the Ganges. These holy texts of Hinduism still teach religion and philosophy to billions of people.

Rivers also indirectly contribute to the physical, mental and intellectual development of human beings. There are many sports such as swimming, boating and fishing on the banks of the river. The captivating beauty of rivers serves as a wellspring of inspiration for writers and literary creators. Numerous poets and authors have been moved to write about rivers. For instance, Indian writer Rahul Sankrityayan’s ‘Volga Se Ganga’, English writer Neil Miller Gunn’s ‘Highland River’, and Joseph Conrad’s ‘Heart of Darkness’ all reflect the authors’ deep admiration for specific rivers. In the context of Assam, the Brahmaputra River has played a pivotal role in shaping various socio-cultural aspects. Assamese culture is often referred to as riverine culture, highlighting the integral relationship between the people and the river. Assam boasts a multitude of artists and writers whose creativity seems to flow in harmony with the Brahmaputra. The rivers flowing through different parts of Assam have enriched a wide spectrum of Assamese literature, further enhancing the cultural heritage of the region.

Indeed, rivers are intricately intertwined with human life, offering diverse benefits in numerous ways. However, it’s important to recognize that at times, rivers can also pose risks and bring about disasters that endanger human lives. Floods, erosion, and dam failures are examples of such hazards that rivers can unleash. The floods of the Huang He River in China killed millions of people until a few years ago. In 1927, the Mississippi River flooded thousands of people in the United States. In India, floods caused by various rivers result in significant damage to numerous areas annually. Developed countries have constructed dams not only for hydropower generation FC also to regulate river flows, mitigating the impact of natural disasters. In India, this comprehensive approach has yet to be fully implemented, and monsoon floods continue to pose challenges. Rivers have always helped people, both directly and indirectly. As a result, they are considered a powerful and essential natural resource in developed countries. The citizens of these countries consider it their responsibility to keep the rivers clean.

Once, both India and Assam were blessed with numerous rivers, big and small. However, a significant number of these rivers are now facing decline. In the past, the rivers in Assam provided safe drinking water, but that era has faded away. Rivers have held religious significance in India’s traditions since ancient times. Unfortunately, the growing population has led to increased human exploitation of rivers, resulting in escalating pollution of their waters. India’s river ecosystems are witnessing a decline in aquatic species due to this pollution. For example, the silver eel fish, a species that was previously found in the Ganges, has ceased migrating to the river’s estuary for breeding and is now heading towards Myanmar. In short, many aquatic animals have left the estuary of the Ganges, which they have long considered suitable for breeding. Some rivers are also dying due to lack of social responsibility of people. Geologists argue that rivers like Bharlu and Bahini in the Guwahati metropolitan area of Assam, as well as Bhogdai in Jorhat, are shrinking due to human neglect and disregard for their preservation. Since 2005, the United Nations has observed River Day as a means to raise awareness about the degradation of rivers and the need for their protection. This initiative responds to the growing threats and challenges that rivers face. Specifically, the fourth Sunday in September is designated as ‘River Day’, a time when efforts are concentrated on increasing awareness about the importance of safeguarding rivers and their ecosystems. This global initiative aims to foster a deeper understanding of the critical role rivers play in our lives and the urgent need to preserve and protect these vital natural resources. Some enthusiastic and public welfare youth organizations for the protection of rivers are organizing awareness programs among the people from time to time. This is a good sign. The ‘Chila Noi Utsav’ (Kite River Festival) has been held on the banks of the Brahmaputra River for several years. Such events play a role in raising awareness among people, even if to a modest extent. Like the citizens of developed countries worldwide, we too should maintain a constant awareness of rivers as valuable resources. It’s high time to discard the notion that rivers have been polluted and pushed to the brink of destruction due to unscientific practices.

We must recognize that people can thrive only when rivers are preserved. This world doesn’t solely belong to humans; nature also has an inherent right to exist. Rivers, which sustain not only humans but also other forms of life, are integral to carrying life itself. Therefore, it is our responsibility to protect rivers and thereby enrich our lives, fostering a harmonious coexistence with the natural world.