International day of Action for Rivers: A recognition of Earth’s Artistry in Gratitude

The origin of the greatest civilisations on earth was only possible because of rivers and clean drinking water. Unfortunately, the pollution rate has drastically increased, creating a need for clean drinking water. It will be difficult for humans to survive if we don’t change anything. On the beautiful occasion of International day of Action for Rivers, let us all take a moment to address the unanimity of people across the globe for the cause of protecting rivers.

The longest river on planet earth – the Nile River

The progenitor of the African waterways and the world’s largest river, the Nile’s source of origin is the Kagera River. The river is crucial for one of the ancient Egyptian civilisations. The river possessed the potential to birth an entire society of people and is also known for the development of civilisation. After the enlightenment, the region developed into a flourished and fertile land.

The Nile has a total length of about 6,650 km (4,130 miles), with the White Nile being the longer of the two. It originates in Lake Victoria in Uganda and the Blue Nile in Ethiopia. Even now, women and children from different families visit the Nile River’s banks to collect water for the day, as ancient Egyptian antiquities serve as a backdrop. A crucial supply of water for agriculture is the Nile. The riverbanks are covered in nutrient-rich silt from the river’s yearly floods, which is vital for agriculture. Due to this, civilisations like ancient Egypt developed advanced agricultural systems and the ability to support enormous numbers of people.

Mekong is the 12^th longest river in World & 3^rd longest in Asia.

Miles apart in an altogether different continent lies the Mekong. It is a major river in Southeast Asia running through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It is the 12th longest river in the world, stretching over 4,900 km (3,044 miles). The civilisation settled around the river 15 years ago, and that modern-day life has seen a drastic change as felt down in emotions by a citizen. The river is a modern twist to that of the Nile. Thousands of families are currently living on the river, with a significant contributor to the income of these households.

“With the reopening of Laos in 1988, I found the country I had left thirteen years ago in the din of war. Before me: the Mekong. This is the river along which I was born, in which I waded through one night in 1975 to reach the refugee camps in Thailand and seek asylum in France. Emotions run down on me like the tropical rain, compelling, wholesome and all-powerful.”- Lam Duc Hien

These rivers are prime examples of how they are the source of life in ancient times and even the modern era. Therefore, the need to conserve them right now is even more critical. International day of Action for Rivers is a reminder that we as humans should not be just dependent on the government to preserve rivers but should also start our initiative. We have one planet, and we must protect it as human beings.

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