Surat: CRZ Approval For Rs. 706 Cr Tapi River Conventional Barrage Project

Surat : The much-anticipated conventional barrage project, slated to span the Tapi River near Rundh-Bhatha and managed by the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC), has achieved a significant milestone with the formal approval from the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ). The nod came during the 344th meeting of the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) specifically convened for projects falling under the purview of Coastal Regulation Zone, presided over by MS Negi, the chairman of EAC (CRZ).

The monumental Rs 706 crore initiative aims to erect a conventional barrage for water management purposes, strategically positioned across the Tapi River near Rundh-Bhatha villages in Surat. Additionally, an adjoining flyover bridge is part of the ambitious plan, anticipated to create an expansive fresh water storage reservoir totaling 18.735 million cubic meters (MCM).

Primarily devised to augment water supply to Surat city and cater to the needs of various industries nestled along the right bank of the Tapi River in the Hazira area, this barrage project aligns with the regional water resource management strategy.

Emphasizing ecological preservation, the design blueprint includes provisions to maintain a minimum water flow of 300 cusecs, complying with the Narmada Water Resources Development resolution of the Gujarat government. Further enhancements are slated to increase this flow to 600 cusecs, ensuring minimal adverse impact on the surrounding ecology.

Of notable significance is the anticipated rejuvenation of the Tapi River downstream owing to the construction of this conventional barrage. Previously, the weir-cum-causeway at Singanpore had curtailed the necessary downstream flow. However, the impending construction is poised to reinstate the Tapi River’s natural grandeur, facilitating a comprehensive bank-to-bank flow.

According to insider sources within the SMC, the project’s execution will unfold in three distinct phases. Land acquisition for this colossal endeavor will involve approximately 11,974 square meters of private land at Rundh, 14,363 square meters of private land at Bhatha, and a substantial 1.92 lakh square meters of government-owned land.

Funding for this ambitious venture will witness the State Government contributing Rs 100 crore, complemented by support from the Central Government. The remaining financial requisites will be managed by the Surat Municipal Corporation.

With Surat’s daily household water demand hovering around 1,200 million liters per day (MLD), this visionary project is poised not only to address immediate needs but also to fortify the city’s water infrastructure for the foreseeable future.