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Urban Flood Management • River Restoration • Wildlife Relocation • Vadodara • Crocodile Conservation
Vishwamitri River Project: Flood Mitigation and Wildlife Conservation in Harmony
The Vishwamitri River in Vadodara is at the heart of an ambitious flood mitigation project following years of severe monsoon flooding. The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) has unveiled a three-phase master plan not only to improve the river’s flow and stormwater infrastructure but also to protect its unique wildlife—especially the 300 crocodiles that inhabit the riverbanks.
🏗️ Project Details: Engineering for Resilience
- River Channel Modification:
Strategic straightening of meandering sections and widening the river channel to enhance its water-carrying capacity up to 1,100 cumecs. - Ajwa Dam Upgrade:
Construction of a new spillway and lowering of the dam’s crest level to regulate water overflow more efficiently. - Buffer Pond Creation:
Establishing new storage zones near Kotambi and Bhaniyara, and dredging ponds in Dhanora, Vadadala, and Haripura. - Stormwater Drain Diversion:
Rerouting Bhukhi kaans and Ruparel kaans to prevent flooding in urban areas. - Rainwater Recharge Systems:
Installation of piezometers, early flood warning systems, and promotion of rainwater harvesting to replenish groundwater levels.
🐊 Crocodile Conservation: A Parallel Mission
The Vishwamitri is home to nearly 300 mugger crocodiles, listed under Schedule-I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, alongside:
- Indian Softshell Turtles
- Monitor Lizards
- Cobras
- Indian Porcupines
Relocating crocodiles is a complex, high-sensitivity task requiring approval from the National Wildlife Board. The plan involves:
- Scientific Tagging & Monitoring
- Creating Temporary Shelters
- Timing Construction Work Around Nesting Seasons
- Avoiding Disturbance in Key Nesting Areas
🌱 Environmental Concerns & Recommendations
Experts warn that construction noise and habitat alterations could drive wildlife into human settlements. To mitigate this, the Forest Department has suggested:
- Undisturbed nesting zones
- Phased execution to avoid nesting seasons
- Monitoring of displaced species during and post-construction
🔮 Future Outlook: A Model of Urban Eco-Balance
This project is a compelling case of infrastructure and environmental stewardship coexisting. With continuous monitoring, scientific relocation, and sustainable urban planning, the Vishwamitri River project could serve as a blueprint for river rejuvenation across India—where city safety and wildlife protection go hand in hand.