RE-ENVISIONING RIVERSCAPES AND URBAN RIVERFRONTS IN INDIA: TOWARD ECOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL HARMONY
By Namrata Kabra & Sanya SarohaonMay. 02, 2024
the much-heralded Sabarmati Riverfront Development Project has not only exacerbated drought-like conditions in the Sabarmati River but also led to inadequate groundwater recharge. These cost-intensive riverfront development (RFD) projects involve alteration of the natural course and ecosystem of rivers and raise questions about the misallocation of public investments.
The misallocation of public funds for such projects neglects alternative approaches such as Rights of Nature governance for river restoration and rejuvenation initiatives, which would better serve environmental conservation and community interests. The Rights of Nature approach is increasingly recognized as a vital alternative to anthropocentric models. This shift paves the way for justice and environmental resilience, viewed through an ecocentric perspective.