VISHWAMITRI RIVER FLOOD MITIGATION PROJECT

GS3- AGRICULTURE 

The Vishwamitri River in Vadodara, Gujarat, is undergoing an extensive flood mitigation project due to recurring severe flooding. The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) has launched a three-phase plan to manage floods, enhance water-carrying capacity, and address environmental concerns, particularly the coexistence of human development and local wildlife.

Key Project Components

River Modifications

  • Channel Changes:
    • Straightening meanders and modifying river sections to handle water flows up to 1,100 cumecs.
  • Ajwa Dam Upgrades:
    • Construction of an additional spillway and lowering the crest level for better flood management.

New Water Storage and Drainage

  • Creation of buffer ponds near Kotambi and Bhaniyara.
  • Dredging of ponds in Dhanora, Vadadala, and Haripura to enhance water storage.
  • Stormwater Network:
    • Upgrading and diverting storm drains like Bhukhi kaans and Ruparel kaans to reduce urban flooding.

Rainwater Management

  • Installation of piezometers for groundwater recharge.
  • Introduction of flood-forecasting warning systems.
  • Promotion of rainwater harvesting to reduce surface runoff.

Environmental Concerns and Wildlife Impact

Crocodile Relocation

  • Species Affected: Nearly 300 crocodiles, classified as Schedule-I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, inhabit the Vishwamitri River.
  • Relocation Process:
    • Requires approval from the National Wildlife Board.
    • Includes scientific tagging and monitoring for relocated crocodiles.
  • Temporary Shelters: Proposed to house crocodiles during habitat modification.

Other Wildlife

  • The river supports diverse species, including Indian Softshell turtles, monitor lizards, cobras, and Indian porcupines.
  • Machinery noise and habitat alterations risk agitating wildlife, potentially increasing human-wildlife conflicts.

Recommendations for Wildlife Conservation

  1. Nesting Protection:
    • Leave crocodile nesting areas undisturbed during their breeding season.
    • Phase work to avoid disrupting critical wildlife activities.
  2. Wildlife Monitoring:
    • Continuous tracking of animal movements during and post-project.
  3. Habitat Restoration:
    • Create artificial habitats for species affected by dredging and construction.
  4. Stakeholder Collaboration:
    • Coordinate with the forest department to ensure ecological balance.

 

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