Kawardha: A new public awareness initiative focusing on water conservation and the preservation of mother tongues has been launched in Chhattisgarh. Under the Mor Chinhari initiative, journalist Vaibhav Shiv Pandey has spearheaded the “Save Water, Save Language” campaign, aiming to sensitize communities about the growing water crisis and the fading use of native languages.
The campaign was formally launched on the occasion of International Mother Language Day from the source of the Hoff River in Banki. The awareness march concluded the following day in Pandariya.
Warm welcome for march participants in Pandariya
Upon reaching Pandariya, the participants of the foot march were warmly welcomed by local residents. A public meeting was organized, where speakers emphasized the urgent need to protect natural water sources and promote mother tongues. Campaign coordinator Dr. Vaibhav Bemetariha highlighted that water scarcity is worsening globally, while many native languages are on the verge of extinction. He stressed that society must become more conscious of safeguarding both rivers and linguistic heritage.
Concern over worsening water crisis
Addressing the gathering, journalist Vaibhav Shiv Pandey said that during the summer months, water shortages take a severe form in both rural and urban areas. Many rivers are now shrinking into seasonal streams, including the Hoff River. He warned that if concrete conservation efforts are not undertaken immediately, future generations may face serious consequences.
Second phase of the campaign to begin on February 28
The second phase of the campaign will commence on February 28 from the Pandariya stretch of the Hoff River. The foot march will pass through hundreds of villages, including Andhiyarkhor and Buchipara, and will conclude on March 2 at Nandghat, at the confluence of the Shivnath River.
The core message of the campaign is clear: water and mother languages are both lifelines and the foundation of cultural identity. Protecting them is not just the responsibility of the government, but a collective duty of society as a whole.