In India, it is believed that bathing in the Godavari is sacred and aiding in the purification of sins through the holy dip can aid one's wellbeing. Environmentalists, however, believe Godavari river water can't be used for agriculture too because it's contaminated.

 Because of its low cleanliness levels, the Godavari River is unsuitable for even bathing in some areas. Sources said that plastic waste, industrial waste, effluents from ponds, chemical residues in agriculture, especially untreated sewage at the villages, towns and cities across the Godavari find their way to the river.

In Nashik Kumbh, the Ram Kund is where holy dips are most commonly performed. The Ram Kund, which runs dry after 139 years, is the first time it has done so. In celebration of Gudi Padwa, it was filled with water from an adjacent pond.  Another tank, Kushavart in Trimbakeshwar, within a few miles of the tank near Hooghly, no longer holds liquid and stinks - it was filled by tankers weeks ago.

The environmental groups assert that pollution of the Godavari River runs from its motherland Nasik due to the establishment of industry in Maharashtra, across the river, and the discharge of industrial effluents and sewage into the river. Nevertheless, the waters of the Godavari flow most through the Pranahitha and Sabari rivers in Andhra Pradesh. The environmentalists said that though the water is polluted from its birthplace, due to the overflow of water, it is better in Agency hillock areas and nearby Polavaram Project area. But, near Rajahmundry, the pollution is very high and all sorts of waste and plastic can be found floating on the river. The fishermen said that they have been facing difficulty in catching the fish in the river, due to the waste accumulation in it. They said that they have to spend half of the time removing the waste during the time of catching the fish.

Our generation needs to address and recognize that this is not only a challenge but also an obstacle to future generations. It is an issue we all have to address as a society. Each of us is responsible for taking a small step forward that will be beneficial to many. Rather than wasting the river that has served us so well, let us pay back the nature that has served us well. 

With this sign-on, we can notify the government of our desires. It may be possible for us to enforce legislation and campaigns that promote the restoration and protection of this river by signing this petition. Let us save the Godavari River.