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1. Introduction Urban areas are increasingly grappling with the problem of traffic congestion, which not only leads to longer travel times but also results in excessive fuel consumption and harmful emissions. With cities growing in both size and population, efficient traffic management has become a priority for city planners. One of the most promising solutions to address this challenge is Adaptive Traffic Signal Control (ATSC). By adjusting traffic light timings based on real-time data, ATSC significantly reduces delays and improves traffic flow, thus offering a smarter way to manage urban mobility. 2. What is Adaptive Traffic Signal Control? Adaptive Traffic Signal Control (ATSC) is an advanced traffic management system designed to optimize traffic light timings in response to real-time traffic conditions. Unlike traditional systems that operate based on fixed schedules, ATSC uses real-time data to dynamically adjust traffic signals. This results in fewer traffic jams, smoother vehic
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Salinity Ingress

Combating Salinity Ingress: Gujarat's Concerted Efforts

Combating Salinity Ingress: Gujarat's Concerted Efforts

Introduction

Gujarat, with its vast coastline stretching across 1,600 kilometers, has been grappling with the pressing issue of salinity ingress, a phenomenon that threatens the agricultural productivity and water resources of coastal regions. The Salinity Ingress Prevention Scheme, a multifaceted initiative launched by the Gujarat government, aims to address this challenge through a comprehensive approach involving scientific interventions, management strategies, and large-scale projects.

salinity ingress schematic view

Background

Salinity ingress, the intrusion of saline water into coastal aquifers and agricultural lands, has been a long-standing concern in Gujarat, particularly in the regions of Saurashtra and Kutch. This problem has been exacerbated by various factors, including irregular rainfall patterns, porous geological formations, excessive groundwater extraction for irrigation, and weak land management practices.

Problem Identification and Causes

The impact of salinity ingress has been far-reaching, affecting vast swaths of agricultural land, villages, and the lives of millions of people. In Saurashtra alone, an area of 700,120 hectares, encompassing 534 villages and 1,079,733 residents, has been adversely affected, leading to economic hardships and migration. The primary causes of salinity ingress in these regions include:

  1. Natural factors: The proximity to the saline ocean water and the porous nature of the coastal geology.
  2. Human interference: Excessive groundwater extraction for irrigation purposes, disrupting the natural balance and allowing saltwater intrusion.
  3. Climatic factors: Irregular rainfall patterns and droughts, leading to a depletion of freshwater resources.

Remedies and Initiatives

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Gujarat government formed two High-Level Committees in 1976 and 1978 to study the issue and recommend solutions. These committees proposed a comprehensive approach encompassing four scientific systems:

  1. Management System: Regulating groundwater extraction, changing crop patterns, and implementing efficient irrigation practices.
  2. Recharge System: Constructing check dams, recharge dams, recharge wells, and spreading channels to replenish groundwater resources.
  3. Salinity Ingress System: Implementing tidal regulators, weirs, fresh water barriers, and static barriers to prevent saltwater intrusion.
  4. Coastal Land Reclamation: Rejuvenating saline-affected coastal lands through leaching and other reclamation techniques.
Saline ingress affected regions in gujarat

Projects in Kutch and Saurashtra

Based on the recommendations of the High-Level Committees, numerous projects have been undertaken in the coastal regions of Kutch and Saurashtra. These projects have involved the construction of tidal regulators, bandharas (small dams), recharge reservoirs, check dams, recharge tanks, nala plugs (stream barriers), and afforestation efforts.

In Saurashtra, works such as the construction of 13 tidal regulators, 29 bandharas, 15 recharge reservoirs, 661 check dams, 28 recharge tanks, 4,487 nala plugs, and afforestation across 5,867 hectares have been completed. Additionally, spreading channels spanning 360 kilometers have been undertaken, with 141 kilometers completed and another 105 kilometers under progress.

In Kutch, projects have included the construction of tidal regulators, bandharas, check dams, recharge tanks, recharge wells, and spreading and connecting channels. Efforts are underway to complete the remaining works as per the recommendations of the High-Level Committee.

Financial Assistance and Funding

To support these extensive projects, financial assistance has been provided through various sources, including the 12th and 13th Finance Commissions and loans from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). The 13th Finance Commission allocated Rs. 75.10 crore under the State Special Need category for Salinity Ingress Prevention Works, while NABARD sanctioned a loan of Rs. 204.03 crore under the RIDF-12 scheme for prioritized projects.

Benefits and Impacts

The Salinity Ingress Prevention Scheme has yielded tangible benefits for the coastal regions of Gujarat. Upon the completion of various works, an area of 74,512 hectares has been directly or indirectly benefited through the storage of 318.04 million cubic meters of freshwater. Additionally, the quality of groundwater has improved, with an average rise of 2.5 meters observed in underground water levels.

Furthermore, the scheme has prevented the advancement of the salinity line, protecting an estimated 226,000 hectares of land from the onslaught of salinity. Economic benefits have also been realized, with increased crop yields and land values, contributing to the overall prosperity of the region.

Final Thoughts

The Salinity Ingress Prevention Scheme in Gujarat stands as a testament to the state's commitment to addressing a critical environmental challenge through a comprehensive and scientific approach. While significant progress has been made, the battle against salinity ingress is ongoing, and continued efforts, funding, and collaboration between stakeholders will be crucial to ensuring the long-term success of this ambitious initiative. By safeguarding the precious water resources and fertile lands of Gujarat's coastal areas, the state is taking a proactive stance in protecting its natural heritage and ensuring the well-being of its people.

For more information, please visit: https://guj-nwrws.gujarat.gov.in/showpage.aspx?contentid=1470&lang=english

Source: Narmada Warer Resources, Water Suppy and Kulpsar Department - Gujarat

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