The Ganga River is highly polluted despite being an important religious site and source of water. It ranks as one of the five most polluted rivers globally. Industrial and human waste are major causes of pollution, threatening biodiversity and spreading disease. Previous government programs like Ganga Action Plans I and II and the National River Conservation Plan have spent billions to address the issue but with limited success. The current Namami Ganga program aims to more effectively clean the river with public participation through donations and volunteerism.