ગુજરાતી
English
Ahmedabad, March 18, 2025
In Bhavnagar, a Rs. 100 crore project has been initiated to clean the Gadechi River. As part of the project, several encroachments have been removed. The Bhavnagar Municipal Corporation (BMC) demolished houses in the Kumbarwada area under Phase 4 of the project despite strong opposition from local residents. Over 185 encroachments were cleared in an 8-hour-long operation, and the work is expected to continue for two more days.
The project, from Bor Talav to the creek, spans 4.12 kilometers with a budget of Rs. 69.56 crore. The primary goal is to prevent untreated sewage from flowing into the river by constructing sewer lines along both banks. Additionally, environmental concerns like mosquito infestation and stagnant water levels are expected to be resolved.
However, the project is marred by allegations of corruption, political influence, and the involvement of land mafias. Protests have erupted, with opposition parties and local residents questioning the motives behind the demolition. They argue that no alternative housing arrangements have been provided for the displaced families.
In recent municipal meetings, the ruling party and opposition leaders engaged in heated debates. Allegations have surfaced that previous riverfront projects, like the Kansara River project, failed despite heavy investments. Residents claim the Kansara River remains polluted, and they fear the Gadechi River project may meet a similar fate.
Over 5,000 people are set to lose their homes, with 819 families directly affected. Protest rallies have been organized, with slogans against the government. Some residents claim that the government has failed to keep its promises and has repeatedly used riverfront projects as election propaganda without delivering tangible results.
