India is grappling with significant river pollution with 311 polluted stretches identified across 279 rivers in 30 states and Union territories. The data, based on the Central Pollution Control Board Polluted River Stretches report of November 2022, was shared in the Rajya Sabha on August 11, 2025.
Among ongoing clean-up efforts the rejuvenation of Pune Mula-Mutha river is a major project under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). It is being implemented at a cost of ₹990.26 crore, with the Centre funding 85% and the rest contributed by the Maharashtra government and Pune Municipal Corporation. The project includes the construction of 11 sewage treatment plants with a combined capacity of 396 million litres per day, along with supporting infrastructure. With a completion target of March 2026, the work has achieved 58% physical progress so far.
In the energy sector, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board has authorised city gas distribution networks in 307 geographical areas, aiming to expand access across India, including tier-2 and tier-3 cities. The plan targets 12.6 crore piped natural gas connections and 18,336 CNG stations by 2034. As of May 31, 2025, over 1.5 crore connections have been provided and more than 8,000 CNG stations established.
The Andaman and Nicobar Basin is also under focus for oil and gas exploration to enhance energy security and reduce imports. Since the launch of the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy, four blocks covering 23,261 sq km have been allocated. Exploratory activities have already acquired thousands of kilometres of seismic data, with three wells drilled. Under the latest bidding round, an additional four blocks covering 47,058 sq km have been offered.
On the climate front, 95 out of 226 cities assessed under the Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework 3.0 have prepared disaster management plans in 2023. These plans are based on hazard, risk, and vulnerability assessments at the ward level, following National Disaster Management Authority guidelines.
The government is also promoting a circular economy through municipal solid waste-based compressed biogas plants. These projects help reduce landfill burden, curb methane emissions, lower pollution levels, and convert organic waste into clean energy and organic manure.
In Tamil Nadu, the Green Tamil Nadu Mission launched in 2021-22 aims to boost the state tree and forest cover from 23.71% to 33% in a decade. Over the past three years, 10.86 crore seedlings have been planted by government departments, NGOs, and the public. In Cuddalore district alone, 54.25 lakh seedlings have been planted through coordinated efforts.
This multi-sector update in Parliament underscores the scale of India environmental and energy challenges, as well as the steps being taken to address them from river clean-ups and renewable energy integration to forest expansion and disaster preparedness.