India’s rivers have been pivotal in shaping the nation’s history, culture, and economy. According to the Central Water Commission (2019), over 300 cities are located on riverbanks. With increasing urbanisation, decreasing urban commons, and weather extremes due to climate change, the city-river relationship has significantly transformed in the 21st century. Over the past two decades, riverfront development projects in India have emerged, focusing on channel engineering that impacts river ecosystems and processes. Cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, Kota, New Delhi, Pune, Ahmedabad, and others have seen substantial transformations in their river ecologies and floodplains, often to the detriment of the communities reliant on these waters. These projects threaten to erase the unique historical characteristics of Indian rivers through heavily concretized floodplains and channelization. Despite the significant impact, the key challenges include sustainability, transparency in decision-making, and the participation and rights of local communities.
At the end of the National Consultation, a press conference is scheduled at 1 PM on 2nd June, 2024, to share the decisions taken at the National Consultation. These decisions are likely to be significant in terms of the depth and nature of the issues that are under discussion.
Venue: Hariyali Resort, Bundi Road, NH 12, Kota, Rajasthan – 324008
We look forward to welcoming you to this important consultation and appreciate your support in covering the event.
