24. An Assessment of Human Impact on Tropical Rivers: A Critical Review on Worship to Responsibility, Case of India

This chapter explores the profound cultural and spiritual significance of tropical rivers in India, particularly within the context of Hinduism. It delves into the historical reverence for rivers as life-sustaining and purifying entities, deeply embedded in the religious and cultural fabric of Indian society. The chapter examines the sophisticated water management systems employed by traditional Indian societies, contrasting them with the state-controlled hydraulic farming observed in other regions. It highlights the profound human impact on tropical rivers, including biodiversity loss, pollution, delta erosion, land erosion, and water over-extraction. The decline of species like the Ganges River Dolphin and severe contamination of the Yamuna underscore the urgent need for sustainable river management practices. The chapter advocates for a holistic approach that balances human needs with ecological sustainability, incorporating comprehensive river basin management, strict pollution control measures, sustainable agricultural practices, and active community involvement in conservation efforts. Through detailed case studies and historical context, the chapter offers valuable insights into the evolving relationship between humans and river ecosystems, providing a model for sustainable development and conservation efforts worldwide.