Implement Vishwamitri River Action Plan in Three Months, NGT Tells Authorities

Context

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the authorities to implement the Vishwamitri River Action Plan in Vadodra including the steps for removal of unauthorised structures, demarcation and protection of flood plain zone within three months.

Key-highlights of the Order

• The bench has noted that Vishwamitri river is one of 351 identified polluted river stretches, identified as such by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
• It also ordered that the demarcation of the entire flood plain zone of the river should be undertaken.
• Further, steps are required for plantation and maintaining the integrity of the river in totality.

About Vishwamitri River

• The Vishwamitri river originates from the western and southern slopes of Pavagadh hills.
• It flows westward through the city of Vadodara, further downstream it is linked with two other tributaries Dhadhar and Jambuva and finally culminates in the Gulf of Kambhat.
• Vishwamitri is home to Indian crocodile (Crocodyluspalustries- Mugger Crocodile)
  • This species is categorised as nationally ‘vulnerable’, subsequent to an assessment following IUCN criteria for threatened species and has the highest legal protection in India.
  • It is listed in Schedule I to the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• The name of this river is said to have been derived from the name of the great saint Vishwamitra.
• Human settlement dating back to 1000 B.C has been found on the bank of river Vishwamitri which ascertains the existence of Stone Age.
• Also, in the beginning of the Christian era, a small township was developed on a mound on the banks of this river which later came to be known as Ankotakka (currently known as Akota) while the mound is popular as Dhantekri.