VARANASI, Aug. 25 -- A group of 22 individuals, including environmental experts and social workers, began a Nadi Yatra (river march) on Sunday from the origin point of the Laua River in Raspahari, located in the Myorpur development block of Sonbhadra. The aim of the initiative is to raise awareness and garner local support for the revival and year-round flow of the river. Social worker Jagat Vishwakarma said the group walked along the river for about six kilometers, passing through forested areas. Along the route, they inspected the river's condition and interacted with local residents to gather insights about its current state and historical flow patterns. Locals informed the team that the Laua River, which once flowed for nearly 11 months a year, now dries up in just six months. They attributed the decline to rampant sand mining in the riverbed and the unchecked felling of trees and vegetation. During interactions, villagers including Meena, Umesh Choubey, Suresh, Bechan, Sher Singh, and Anita admitted that, despite living near the river, they were unaware of its critical importance and the role it plays in providing free and accessible water. Meetings were subsequently held with villagers at the Raspahari School premises and Kusmha Panchayat Bhawan. Meanwhile, a second team visited Manbasa and Karam Dhad to assess the river's condition in those areas. Environmental scientists Dr Anil Gautam, Prem Narayan, and Shubha Prem collected data on both the direct and indirect benefits the villagers derive from the river. A broader discussion followed on the interconnectedness of rivers, forests, flora, and human life. Dr Gautam emphasised the need for reviving the Laua River and sought suggestions from villagers on actionable steps that could help restore it to its former state. An initial action plan was discussed with community members. The Nadi Yatra will continue on Monday, with the group scheduled to march to Jharo village to further engage with locals and seek their involvement in the river revival efforts. Among those present during the event were Devnath Bhai, Jagat Bhai, Ashok Singh, Krishna, and others....