Chief Minister on Thursday unveiled a substantial Rs 1,200 crore package dedicated to the Vishwamitri River Revival and Redevelopment Project. The announcement came during a visit to flood-affected areas, including Pensionpura, where many residents have been relocated.
The Vishwamitri River, which had seen its water levels surge from 25 feet to a concerning 37 feet earlier this week, has begun to recede, now standing at 32 feet as of Thursday. Despite this reduction, several low-lying areas remain inundated, reflecting the river’s persistent threat to local communities. The Chief Minister’s intervention marks a significant step in a long-awaited initiative to address the recurring flood issues in Vadodara. The Vishwamitri River Redevelopment Project, a plan more than a decade in the making, aims to establish a comprehensive water management system. The project’s goal is to enhance flood control measures and improve the river’s overall infrastructure, potentially mitigating future flood risks.
The recent floods have been severe, with 11 lives lost in Vadodara alone since Tuesday. Statewide, the relentless rains have claimed 35 lives, attributed to wall collapses, drowning incidents, and tree falls. The ongoing monsoon season has seen Gujarat record 109% of its average rainfall, exacerbating the situation. In terms of relief efforts, authorities have successfully rescued 2,572 individuals and relocated 32,933 residents to safer locations between August 25 and 29. While immediate relief operations are ongoing, discussions about long-term flood management strategies, particularly concerning the Vishwamitri River, are set to follow.
The Chief Minister’s announcement not only highlights the urgent need for improved water management but also signals a proactive approach to tackling the long-standing issue of flood management in Vadodara. The proposed Rs 1,200 crore investment reflects a commitment to addressing both the immediate impacts of the current floods and preventing future disasters through infrastructural enhancements and better river management practices. As the floodwaters begin to recede, the focus will shift to the implementation of this significant project, which aims to provide a robust solution to Vadodara’s flood challenges and safeguard its residents against future calamities.
