Debris, delays undermine flood mitigation efforts

Vadodara: The dredging of the Vishwamitri river to resection it is widely perceived as a major step towards flood mitigation in the city, but the work is far from complete. The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) is now planning major interventions, including the removal of debris from the riverbanks.Soon after the Navalawala committee, formed by the state govt to study flooding in the city, submitted its recommendations, VMC began work on short-term measures for immediate relief. However, long-term solutions suggested by the committee remain in the pipeline. The issue of silt and construction debris deposited along the riverbanks has sparked debate, with a committee appointed by the Gujarat State Human Rights Commission (GSHRC) expressing concern during a recent meeting. The committee's latest report has again flagged the presence of debris along the river. A survey ordered by VMC identified 13 locations across the city where construction and demolition waste had been dumped along the riverbanks. Committee members noted that little progress had been made in clearing this waste. Sources said that barring a couple of locations where construction debris was removed, most sites remained untouched. VMC has directed its solid waste department to handle the removal of construction and demolition waste. While the process is expected to involve significant costs, officials said efforts are underway to ensure the waste is cleared. A source pointed out that in several places the debris has been covered with soil over the years. "It seems as if the place is land, but one will find debris on digging a bit," the source said. Apart from clearing debris and municipal waste, VMC is now looking to focus on long-term interventions. "We are looking to take up work on gabion walls to prevent erosion at some places and installing sensors alerting us about the level of water in the river," said VMC commissioner Arun Mahesh Babu. VMC is also preparing a Vishwamitri riverfront plan with a focus on facilities for senior citizens, crocodile observation points and walking and cycling tracks. Sources said the work will have to be carried out in an environment-friendly manner in line with National Green Tribunal directives.