Kengeri river initiative connects over 200 Bengaluru residents with Vrishabhavathi

A community initiative called 'By the River' has engaged more than 200 residents over the last 16 months to reconnect them with the Vrishabhavathi River through monthly interactive sessions held along a natural stretch of the river near Kengeri, Bengaluru. Launched by Paani.Earth Foundation co-founders Madhuri Mandava and Dr. Nidhi Paliwal, the programme uses art, science, and dialogue to spark conversations around river conservation and build a network of volunteers.

Organisers launched the programme in response to a growing disconnect between urban residents and the city’s rivers, which are now frequently viewed as polluted drains rather than living ecosystems. Dr. Paliwal explained that Bengaluru must rethink its relationship with its water sources, noting how the city's water supply has shifted over time.

"At one point in time, Arkavathi was the source of water for Bangalore. We have shifted our rivers from closer to far. Now we have reached Cauvery. We are eyeing rivers like Netravati and redirecting them towards Bangalore," Dr. Paliwal said. She warned that citizens must reflect on where they are going wrong.

According to Dr. Paliwal, the lack of personal connection makes the river invisible to residents. She emphasized that the major role in protecting and restoring the Vrishabhavathi must be played by the local communities living around it, who can become its guardians.

During the monthly gatherings, participants take part in activities that encourage them to imagine a restored river ecosystem. Many attendees recalled childhood memories of playing in clean rivers and shared their desires for a similar future for the Vrishabhavathi and their children. Organisers estimate that the program's reach has doubled through word-of-mouth, with up to 400 people now aware of the movement.

The initiative has also drawn interest from scientific groups, schools, colleges, social organisations, and local communities. Engineers from the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) have also attended several sessions.

To sustain this momentum, Paani.Earth Foundation is developing a framework to convert this interest into concrete action. Nearly 200 volunteers have expressed willingness to support the rejuvenation of the Vrishabhavathi River through future collaborative efforts and follow-up meetings.