Monsoon looms, but river bank strengthening still drags

Vadodara: The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) has adopted a bioengineering method — rarely used on such a large scale in India — to stabilise the dredged banks of the Vishwamitri river. However, the initiative, launched with much delay, is progressing slowly, raising concerns that monsoon is already knocking on the doors. It is feared that downpours and turbulent river flow could lead to soil erosion and sediment re-entering the riverbed.VMC had first trialled the technique in April and formally engaged an agency in May to implement the method over an area of 1.34 lakh square metres at a cost of Rs 4.9 crore in the first phase. More work may be taken up if required. However, intermittent pre-monsoon showers and an early monsoon forecast have heightened the urgency of the project.Despite the potential of the technique, its delayed implementation is a cause for concern. As of Monday, only 2.3 km of riverbank had been covered, whereas the Vishwamitri stretches 24.7 km within the city limits. The civic body still lacks a clear plan for the total area requiring stabilisation, sources said.Experts believe the work should have been carried out in parallel with the dredging and resectioning of the river. "Stabilisation using artificial methods should have been initiated immediately after dredging was completed. Now, there's a risk of soil erosion and sediment washing back into the river," one expert warned.VMC standing committee chairman Sheetal Mistry acknowledged the delay, citing limited availability of specialised agencies and materials as contributing factors. "Not all stretches require stabilisation as there are areas with intact structures or undisturbed greenery," he added. A VMC official admitted that erosion from rain cannot be completely ruled out, but insisted it would be minimal.Experts have recommended prioritising critical locations, particularly areas with steep slopes or those historically prone to erosion. "Not every section of the riverbank requires reinforcement. Some segments experience erosion while others are zones of deposition," said an expert.