The government has decided to set up 20 water recycling plants along the Ganga in an effort to conserve ecology. Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari on Saturday said the Centre will use this water from recycling plants at 13 railway stations and refinery in Mathura, besides 13 power projects.

“We are committed to conserving ecology. By developing waterways, we can save the environment and minimise pollution… Ganga is a subject close to people’s hearts. We have started huge work on the Ganga. We are making 20 water recycling plants along the river,” Gadkari told PTI. At the Art of Living Foundation's World Cultural Festival, the Union minister said the new initiative will also generate jobs for the country's unemployed.

Speaking on striking a balance between development and environmental concerns, Gadkari said Parliament’s nod to convert 111 rivers across the country into waterways is a “revolutionary step”, which will pave the way for the utilisation of 35,000 km of waterways in the country for sustainable development. He said the step will minimise pollution while reducing high logistical charges. He also mentioned the Centre's new focus on converting “waste into wealth”, as a part of which roads will now be built using 8% plastic.