Sai Ghat’s Glow-Up: Community Wins Big
Pratapgarh: In the heart of Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, the Sai River’s sacred Chauharjan Devi Sai River Ghat has undergone a stunning transformation. Once a neglected site buried under heaps of garbage, it now stands clean and vibrant, a shining example of what happens when media amplifies community voices and bureaucracy responds. As locals proclaim, “If the bureaucracy wants, it can do wonders!”—and wonders have indeed been wrought, thanks to a relentless media campaign.
Not long ago, the ghat was a disheartening sight. Plastic bags, food waste, and debris littered its steps, defiling its religious and cultural significance. Pilgrims waded through filth to offer prayers, while irresponsible dumping scarred the riverbank. The ghat’s decline drew sharp criticism from residents and environmental activists, who refused to let this sacred space succumb to neglect.
Also read: Holy River, Unholy Mess: Sai’s Plight at Devi Dham
The tide turned with a powerful media campaign, led by outlets like Global Bihari. Social media posts, press notes, and public appeals shone a spotlight on the ghat’s plight, building relentless pressure on the authorities. At the forefront was local youth environmentalist Sundaram Tiwari, whose tireless advocacy through media channels captured the attention of the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Shivgarh. The BDO’s swift response—a thorough cleanup drive—proved the media’s role as a catalyst for change.
“I sincerely thank BDO Shivgarh for responding to our appeal,” Tiwari said with deep gratitude. “This shows that when the public and administration come together, real change is possible. This ghat is not just a place of religious importance, but also a symbol of our heritage. Its cleanliness is our shared responsibility.”
Clean Ghat, New Hope
The cleanup has transformed the ghat from a garbage-laden eyesore into a pristine riverside sanctuary. Locals now rejoice at the change, with many, like devotee Meera Devi, expressing hope for its upkeep. “The ghat feels alive again,” she said. “But we must keep it this way.” The revitalised space is now ready for daily rituals, community gatherings, and to welcome pilgrims and nature lovers.
This triumph highlights the media’s pivotal role in driving civic action. The campaign, fueled by Global Bihari and Tiwari’s advocacy, proves that amplified voices can move mountains—or at least clear mountains of trash. To sustain this progress, activists propose dustbins, awareness boards, and regular community-led cleanliness drives.
As the Sai River flows serenely beside the restored ghat, it carries a renewed sense of pride. The Chauharjan Devi Sai River Ghat, reborn through media-driven pressure and collective action, stands as a testament to the power of unified voices. In Tiwari’s words, “Nature respects those who respect it”, and in Pratapgarh, that respect, sparked by the media, is now flowing strong.
The Chauharjan Devi Sai River Ghat, once choked by neglect, now shines as a beacon of what’s possible when voices unite and action follows.
– global bihari bureau
