Vadodara: The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) has taken an important decision for flood control, environmental protection, and the overall development of the Vishwamitri River passing through Vadodara city. After the closure of the Vadodara Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (VRDCL), formed in 2016, it has been proposed to form a new Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) company named Vishwamitri River Conservation and Riverfront Development Limited (VRCRDL).

This project is planned to be completed between 2025-26 and 2030-31 under the Urban Challenge Fund Scheme of the Central Government. Twenty-five percent of the funds for the project will be provided by the Central Government, 25 percent by the State Government, and the remaining 50 percent will be raised from the market.

In 2016, the Vadodara Riverfront Development Corporation was formed, inspired by the Sabarmati Riverfront project in Ahmedabad. However, the project could not proceed due to environmental clearance issues and disputes before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), and the company became inactive.

Now, the words “River Conservation” have been added to the name of the new company, indicating that the main focus of the project will not only be on riverbank development but also on the conservation of the river’s natural form, environment, and ecosystem. The municipality has sought approval to form the new company.

In the previous riverfront model, greater emphasis was placed on beautification and economic development. A controversy arose when the Environmental Protection Committee filed an application before the NGT, and the municipality eventually withdrew its application for environmental clearance. Following this, discussions were held at various levels regarding the cleaning and conservation of the Vishwamitri River, and after the reports of a high-level committee, a plan was prepared with a new approach.

Under the new scheme, conserving the habitat of crocodiles, turtles, and other aquatic animals living in the Vishwamitri River will be a priority. Development works will be carried out while maintaining the river’s ecology, in accordance with the orders of the NGT and the guidelines of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

DeshGujarat