With the CM’s ambitious plan to revive one river per district, The SSF Noon River Project (selected under ODOR) faced significant challenges during its revival of a 2.5 km critical patch within the 48-km Noon River in Kanpur, including deep stagnant water, rampant water hyacinth, silt buildup, encroachments, and even dozens of snake bites to workers. Deep, dirty still water and thick silt required manual removal by 30+ workers to avoid machinery damage to sensitive banks. Water hyacinth infestations blocked channels, which were cleared via labor-intensive methods generating 15+ man-days, including JCB and boat. Snake bites and wildlife hazards during shramdaan prompted safety protocols, yet sustained community participation. Ultimately, our work was a highlight at district-level meetings and was highly appreciated by the District Magistrate, Kanpur.
