The notification for setting up the Ganga River Basin Authority for comprehensive management of the basin. The authority chaired by the prime minister will consist of the chief ministers of the Ganga basin states as members along with related ministers of the central government.

Whereas the river Ganga is of unique importance ascribed to reasons that are geographical, historical, socio-cultural and economic giving it the status of a national river. And whereas the river Ganga has been facing serious threat due to discharge of increasing quantities of sewage effluents, trade effluents and other pollutants on account of rapid urbanisation and industrialization. And whereas the demand for river water is growing for irrigation, drinking purposes, industrial use and power due to increase in population, urbanisation, industrialisation and growth in infrastructure, and taking into account the need to meet competing demands.