India Launches Global River Cities Alliance at Dubai COP28: A Revolutionary Step in River-Centric Development
Discover the groundbreaking launch of the Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA) by India's Jal Shakti Ministry at COP28 in Dubai. This unique alliance, comprising 275+ river-cities from 11 countries, international funding agencies, and knowledge partners, marks a significant stride towards sustainable river-centric development on a global scale.
Introduction
In a momentous announcement at the United Nations Climate Change Conference-COP28 in Dubai, India's Ministry of Jal Shakti introduced the Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA). Under the leadership of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), this alliance stands out as the world's first collaborative effort encompassing 275+ river-cities, international funding agencies, and knowledge management partners. Let's delve into the key highlights of this groundbreaking initiative.
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| India's Jal Shakti Ministry launches 'Global River Cities Alliance' at Dubai COP28 |
Key Highlights of Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA)
Unprecedented Global Collaboration
GRCA sets itself apart as a unique alliance, bringing together river-cities from 11 countries, including India, Egypt, the Netherlands, Denmark, Ghana, Australia, Bhutan, Cambodia, Japan, and the Netherlands. International funding agencies such as the World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB), Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), and KPMG are actively involved. This unprecedented collaboration aims to address shared challenges related to river management and sustainability.
Memorandum of Cooperation (MoCP) Highlight
During the launch, Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, emphasized the recent Memorandum of Cooperation (MoCP) signed between Namami Gange and the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative (MRCTI). This signifies a commitment to fostering international partnerships and sharing best practices in river conservation and rejuvenation.
River Cities Alliance/River-City Coalition (RCA)
The GRCA builds upon the foundation laid by the River Cities Alliance (RCA), initiated in November 2021. RCA, a joint effort of the Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), connects river cities globally, focusing on sustainable river-centric development. Currently, it encompasses 143 cities, including international participants like Aarhus city in Denmark.
Three Core Themes
The alliance concentrates on three broad themes – networking, capacity building, and technical assistance. By fostering collaboration in these areas, GRCA aims to enhance the capabilities of participating cities in managing their rivers sustainably, addressing pollution, and promoting holistic development.
Implementation by National Council for River Ganga Rejuvenation
The mission is executed by the National Council for River Ganga Rejuvenation, Conservation, and Management, also known as the National Ganga Council. Established as a registered society on 12 August 2011, this council plays a pivotal role in overseeing the successful implementation of river-centric initiatives in India and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA)? A: GRCA is a unique alliance launched at COP28, comprising 275+ river-cities, international funding agencies, and knowledge partners, with a focus on addressing global challenges related to river management and sustainability.
Q: What is the River Cities Alliance/River-City Coalition (RCA)? A: RCA, launched in November 2021, is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, connecting river cities globally and promoting sustainable river-centric development.
Q: How many cities are currently part of the River Cities Alliance (RCA)? A: RCA currently includes 143 cities, with international participants like Aarhus city in Denmark, working collaboratively on river-centric development.
Q: What are the core themes of GRCA? A: GRCA focuses on three core themes – networking, capacity building, and technical assistance – to enhance the capabilities of participating cities in managing their rivers sustainably.
Conclusion
India's launch of the Global River Cities Alliance at COP28 marks a revolutionary step towards global collaboration in addressing the challenges of river management and sustainability. With the inclusion of diverse river-cities, funding agencies, and knowledge partners, GRCA sets the stage for a new era of shared learning and coordinated efforts in river-centric development. As the alliance continues to grow and implement its initiatives, it holds the promise of fostering a sustainable future for rivers and the communities they serve worldwide.
