In general, I think that the Ganga Action Plan did succeed because it’s main objective was to have integrated river basin management all while considering the various dynamic interactions between abiotic and biotic ecosystems. This has been one of the longest and most ambitious government interventions that has significantly influenced policies for controlling water pollution in India. I believe that a lack of clear policy, in addition to vague legal frameworks, has led to gaps that have allowed departmental discretions to play decisive roles in program implementation. While the Ganga Action Plan is a step in the right direction, I believe that further success of the program depends immensely on adequately defining appropriate standards of water quality as well as choosing appropriate technologies for sewage treatment.
Success of Ganga Action Plan