Sir,
Devika, a small holy rivulet, often called Gupt Ganga, flowing through Udhampur, has got such a religious and cultural importance for the people of Udhampur in particular and all Dogras in general that the land of Udhampur has got a sobriquet of ‘Devaknagri’. Devika is revered as the elder sister of holy Ganges. But, unfortunately, today this river is in a pathetic state.
Devika, which enjoys a revered status in our cultural heritage has now become a dumping ground. Various effluents from small local industries, local waste, and mortal remains are dumped untreated directly into this river. Moreover, many settlements have come up near the banks of this river and the people wash their clothes in it, thereby polluting it further. The river Devika is also being used to dead animals and its surface is dotted with rotting plants, and other industrial wastes. .
Though the local administration organises ‘cleanliness drives’ to clean Devika on the eve of religious and social occasions but unfortunately, status quo has become the unchangeable norm. Therefore, action should be immediately initiated by authorities and people to prevent further deterioration of the waters of the Devika, which is our lifeline. People too must understand their role in keeping this holy rivulet clean so that we can bring back its pristine sheen and lost glory so that it is counted among the cleanest rivers in India.
Yours etc….
Ansh Chowdhari
66/2A Roop Nagar, Jammu
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