Gujarat Plans Six New Barrages to Rejuvenate Sabarmati River
In a significant move aimed at rejuvenating the Sabarmati River and bolstering groundwater levels across Gujarat, the state government has embarked on the construction of six new barrages along the river. The project, estimated to cost Rs 1,500 crore, will see the number of barrages on the river rise to 14, covering a 148-kilometre stretch between Dharoi Dam in Mehsana and Vasna Barrage in Ahmedabad. This bold initiative will not only address water security concerns but also provide much-needed respite to the river’s ecosystem and the surrounding communities that depend on it.
At the heart of the project is the introduction of a rubber weir, set to be the first of its kind in Gujarat. The rubber structure, designed with an inflatable membrane, will regulate the flow of water into the river. Expected to be a notable addition to Ahmedabad’s infrastructure, the rubber weir will also feature a cantilever bridge that is anticipated to become a prominent landmark in the city. The project reflects Gujarat’s vision to integrate sustainable and innovative solutions to address water management challenges while simultaneously enhancing urban aesthetics and infrastructure.
This ambitious plan comes at a time when the Sabarmati River faces critical challenges, particularly its drying up during the months of October and November. With the new barrages in place, the river is expected to retain surface water for a more extended period, potentially up to February, thus alleviating the pressure on groundwater resources. The barrages will also help to improve the availability of water for irrigation, which is crucial for the agriculture-dependent regions surrounding the river. As groundwater extraction in the region has reached alarming levels, the construction of these barrages will provide a much-needed boost to recharge the aquifers, thus ensuring long-term water security.
Sustainability Angle:
The sustainability aspect of the Sabarmati’s rejuvenation project cannot be overstated. As Gujarat continues to face the pressures of climate change, urbanisation, and dwindling groundwater levels, the barrages serve as a testament to the state’s commitment to sustainable water management. According to the latest data from the Central Ground Water Board, a significant portion of Gujarat’s tehsils, particularly in Ahmedabad, Mehsana, and Gandhinagar, fall under the category of semi-critical, critical, or over-exploited groundwater units. These new barrages are poised to directly address this issue by increasing surface water availability, thereby reducing the dependence on groundwater for irrigation and drinking purposes. Moreover, the rubber weir’s ability to store and release water as needed will ensure that water is available during critical times, further improving resilience to water scarcity.
Civic and Urban Perspectives:
On the civic front, the barrages will have a profound impact on the local communities and urban development in Ahmedabad and surrounding areas. The rubber weir, which will be located within the city limits, is expected to contribute to the city’s ongoing efforts to improve its water infrastructure and extend the Sabarmati Riverfront, a popular urban development initiative. The addition of nine new or under-progress barrages will not only aid in water management but also support urban growth by reducing the vulnerability of local residents to the unpredictable water flow of the Sabarmati. With iconic bridges like the Atal Bridge already enhancing the river’s appeal, the new barrages will complement this aesthetic while addressing practical concerns related to water supply and groundwater depletion.
Furthermore, these infrastructure projects have the potential to provide a model for other urban regions grappling with similar water scarcity issues. As cities across India face mounting water crises, Gujarat’s proactive approach in implementing sustainable solutions offers hope for long-term relief. The integration of technological innovations such as the rubber weir also signals a broader trend of adopting adaptable and eco-friendly solutions in urban infrastructure, which will be critical for India’s future growth in the face of climate change and population pressures.
