The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) held its 60th Executive Committee Meeting, chaired by the Director General, where several projects were approved to support the conservation and rejuvenation of the Ganga River.

One of the major projects approved involves the interception and diversion of the Durga Drain in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, along with the construction of a 60 MLD sewage treatment plant (STP).

The project, with an estimated cost of Rs 274.31 crore, is designed to enhance wastewater management.

It includes a 75 MLD main pumping station and other structures necessary for effective sewage treatment. The project will follow the hybrid annuity model to ensure long-term sustainability.

Another project was approved for Bhadohi, aimed at preventing untreated sewage from entering the Varuna River, a tributary of the Ganga. This initiative, with an investment of ₹127.26 crore, includes the construction of three STPs with capacities of 17 MLD, 5 MLD, and 3 MLD. An extensive sewer network will also be established to tap four major drains. 

The project will be implemented under the Design-Build-Operate-Transfer (DBOT) model, ensuring efficient operation and maintenance over the next 15 years.