Vadodara, Feb 16 (NationPress) The initiative to reduce flood risks in Vadodara has officially started on Sunday with the deepening and widening of the Vishwamitri River, alongside desilting efforts.

Furthermore, the deepening of the Ajwa and Pratappura reservoirs has been set in motion.

The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) will not incur any costs for the deepening of these reservoirs, as the excavation will be executed through public participation, allowing interested parties to remove the excavated soil at no expense.

The Mines and Minerals Department has endorsed this project, facilitating its quick implementation.

Last year, Vadodara faced significant flooding, with numerous residents trapped in inundated homes for extended periods.

Acknowledging the seriousness of the situation, the state government conducted a comprehensive survey led by water specialist B.N. Navalawala.

The results were presented to the Chief Minister, and following his endorsement, the vital flood mitigation efforts have been initiated. This encompasses the thorough deepening of Ajwa and Pratappura reservoirs, which are essential for managing surplus water during heavy rainfall.

To prevent financial strain on the municipality, authorities have adopted a public participation strategy for the excavation process. Interested entities can collect the excavated soil from the reservoirs free of charge. This strategy not only minimizes expenses but also promotes effective resource utilization.

Recently, the Mines and Minerals Department sanctioned this plan, and potential applicants can submit their requests to the VMC's Water Supply Department by February 27. This initiative is anticipated to lessen the threat of future flooding in Vadodara while ensuring fiscal responsibility.

Experts assert that without public involvement, the project's cost would have placed a significant burden on the municipality's finances.

The Vishwamitri River, which flows through the center of Vadodara, has historically been a vital waterway for the area. However, excessive silt buildup and encroachments have made the river susceptible to flooding during intense rains, resulting in recurrent inundation.

The desilting and widening initiatives are aimed at restoring the river's natural flow and amplifying its water-carrying capacity. This undertaking is expected to diminish the chances of waterlogging in residential neighborhoods, enhancing the city’s flood resilience.

Ajwa Reservoir, one of Vadodara's primary water sources, is critical for providing potable water to the city.

Over time, sediment accumulation has reduced its storage capacity, affecting the water supply during peak summer months.

The deepening of Ajwa aims to boost its water retention capacity, ensuring a steady supply of drinking water while also serving as a barrier against flooding.

The excavation operations at Ajwa are planned to minimize environmental impact while maximizing benefits for surrounding residents and farmers.

Pratappura Reservoir, another key water body in Vadodara, also suffers from decreased capacity due to silt buildup. This reservoir is essential for agricultural irrigation and groundwater replenishment in the region.

The deepening process is expected to rejuvenate its functionality, assisting farmers in accessing a more dependable water source.