Evaluating the Ecological and Social Dimensions towards Sustainability: A Case of Dravyavati River Revitalization, Jaipur

Abstract

This study assesses the Dravyavati River Revitalization Project in Jaipur, India, focusing on its ecological and social impacts. Historically vital, the Dravyavati River faced severe degradation from urbanization and pollution. Inspired by successful precedents like the Sabarmati Riverfront, the project aims to restore ecological balance, improve water quality, and create vibrant public spaces. We evaluate changes in water quality, biodiversity, and ecosystem health, alongside the project\'s influence on local communities, livelihoods, and quality of life. The research emphasizes understanding the current state, analyzing best practices from other river revitalization initiatives, and providing recommendations for long-term sustainability, aiming to inform future urban river restoration efforts and foster a harmonious relationship between Jaipur\'s citizens and nature.

Introduction

Rivers have historically been central to civilization, supporting economies, cultures, and ecosystems. However, rapid urbanization and industrialization have degraded many urban rivers worldwide, turning once-vibrant water bodies into polluted channels with diminished ecological and social value. India, undergoing rapid urban growth, faces significant challenges in managing its urban rivers, prompting government-led revitalization efforts.

One prominent example is the Dravyavati River Revitalization Project in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Historically important for agriculture and water supply, the Dravyavati has suffered severe pollution, encroachment, and environmental degradation due to unchecked urban expansion. The project, inspired by successful models like Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati Riverfront, aims to restore the river’s ecological health, improve flood management, enhance urban livability, promote sustainable water use, and engage local communities.

Key objectives include:

• Reducing pollution through advanced sewage treatment,

• Restoring biodiversity via green spaces,

• Mitigating flood risks by improving river capacity,

• Creating recreational and cultural urban spaces,

• Implementing water-efficient practices in an arid region,

• Involving stakeholders to ensure social inclusivity and sustainability.

The study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining field observations, surveys, interviews, and secondary data analysis to assess ecological improvements and social impacts. Early results show significant water quality improvements (higher dissolved oxygen, lower biochemical oxygen demand, reduced coliform counts), though some challenges like residual pollutants remain.

Overall, the project exemplifies a nature-based, integrated urban planning approach that balances ecological restoration with urban development, offering lessons for river rejuvenation initiatives in India and globally.

References

[1] Jain, S. (2019). Environmental impact assessment of polluted water in Jaipur A case study of Dravyavati river basin Amanishah nallah Sanganer area. Jaipur. [2] Lal, P. (2021). Livability Concerns due to Ground Water Quality in the Amanishah Nala Environ of Jaipur City. Asian Resonance. [3] Paneria, D., Mehta, V., & Bhatt, B. V. (2017). Waterfront Development: A Case Study of Sabarmati Riverfront. New Horizons in Civil Engineering (NHCE-2017). Surat. [4] Projects, T. (2020). Restoration of Dravyavati River in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Jaipur. [5] Randhawa, A., & Chandra, T. (2017). Revitalization of Dravayawati River, Jaipur, India: A water-front development project. Journal of Geography and Regional Planning. [6] Shastri, V. (2020). Remaking Livelihoods: Everyday Struggles Of The Displaced - A study of the Dravyavati River Rejuvenation Project in Jaipur.

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Himanshi Sachdeva, Ar. Bhavya Mehta. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.