Introduction: Rivers are a renewable natural resource, yet their current status is dire. Human interference with a river's natural cycle has contaminated the water and disrupted the ecology. While cleaning major perennial rivers is important, seasonal rivers are ignored. The Ghaggar is an inland and primarily seasonal stream that is rain-fed and faces pollution. It is one of the most polluted stretches of river in India. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in two villages, Mubarikpur and Kakrali, situated in the Ghaggar river basin, India. Observation, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions were conducted to understand the villagers' daily lives, cultural practices associated with the river, and concerns regarding river water. Results and Discussion: To comprehend the changes occurring in a river system, one must have knowledge of the alterations happening in the physical and social aspects of the entire area that flows into it. This includes knowing the desires and relationships of the community with the river system in question. The study focuses on the factors responsible for river pollution and understanding the growing apathy towards the ephemeral Ghaggar River. Factors contributing to pollution include industrial and residential waste, unplanned urbanisation, religious offerings, and the changing socio-economic landscape. The river, once a lifeline for villages, is now a nullah, or drain, due to contamination. The lack of urgency despite the direct impact of water quality on villagers' well-being is attributed to broken rituals, limited knowledge of cumulative impact, a focus on alternatives, and a sense of powerlessness. Conclusion: This research delves into this broken bond, focusing on the factors contributing to the lack of concern among riparian communities. Restoration transcends beyond just a scientific endeavour. There is a need for holistic restoration efforts that consider the social and cultural significance of rivers and engage the riparian community.