August 27:  In an effort to bolster the Bagmati River conservation campaign, a thrilling rafting and river festival was organized along the Bagmati River in Kathmandu on August 26.

This event, jointly organized by the Nepal Association of Rafting Agencies (NARA), the Nepal River Conservation Organization, and the Friends Club of Kupandole, commenced at 7:00 am, stretching from the Bagmati Bridge at Kupandole to Sundarighat.

The primary objective of this initiative, as articulated by NARA Vice-Chairperson Sishir Khanal, was to underline the significance of water tourism and enhance the recognition of the Bagmati River's cultural heritage, while also advocating for its conservation.

This year marked the 23rd edition of the rafting and river festival, a collaborative effort by various social organizations. Over the past few years, these organizations have been diligently involved in the Bagmati River clean-up campaign, a critical endeavor in light of the river's transition from a pristine waterway to a polluted sewage channel.

To kick off the festival, traditional musical instruments filled the air, setting the tone for the day's activities. These musical performances aimed to aware participants to the current deplorable state of the Bagmati River, emphasizing the urgency of preserving its sanctity.

In addition to rafting adventures, participants also took part in riverbank cleaning efforts, aligning with the organizers' commitment to restoring the river to its former glory.