Gandhinagar: The Government of Gujarat has granted in-principle approval for the ambitious Badalpur–Kareli Barrage-cum-Bridge project across the Mahi River near Dhuvaran in Anand district. The project, estimated to cost around ₹1,700 crore, is expected to significantly transform water management, agriculture, drinking water supply, and regional connectivity across central and southern parts of the state.
The initiative is being supported by State Food and Civil Supplies Minister Ramanbhai Solanki, while Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel is leading the broader vision of integrated regional development linking the Charotar region with Bharuch.
Project Design: Bridge, Barrage & Water Storage System
According to officials from the Anand Irrigation Division, the project will include:
- A nearly 2-kilometre-long bridge within a 4.5-kilometre-wide riverbed of the Mahi River
- Around 70 water-regulating gates to control river flow and maximize freshwater storage
- Protective embankments along the river stretch
- Advanced flood-control systems and a safe crossway for transportation during heavy rainfall
The structure is designed to store approximately 183 million cubic metres of freshwater, preventing large quantities of monsoon runoff from flowing into the Arabian Sea.
Strengthening Water Security & Reducing Salinity
One of the key objectives of the project is to improve long-term water availability in the region. At present, drinking water supply in the area primarily depends on the Kadana Dam.
The new barrage is expected to:
- Create a reliable freshwater reservoir
- Reduce dependency on existing water sources
- Improve groundwater recharge
- Mitigate salinity intrusion extending up to Sindhrot Weir
Officials estimate that soil salinity across nearly 16,000 hectares will be reduced, significantly improving agricultural productivity and soil health.
Drinking Water Benefits for Over 1.5 Million People
The project will have a major impact on drinking water availability across rural regions. It is expected to benefit:
- Over 1.5 million people
- Nearly 80 villages, including:
- 42 villages in Anand district
- 30 villages in Vadodara district
- 8 villages in Bharuch district
Villages located along district borders will gain improved access to clean and sustainable drinking water sourced from the Mahi River system.
Boost to Agriculture, Industry & Rural Economy
The reservoir and improved irrigation system are expected to significantly enhance agricultural output. Farmers will benefit from:
- Improved soil fertility
- Ability to cultivate multiple crops annually
- Increased groundwater availability
Additionally, the project is expected to stimulate industrial growth by ensuring stable water supply for manufacturing and processing units in the region.
Major Connectivity Upgrade: 75 km Travel Reduction
Beyond water management, the barrage-cum-bridge will function as a key transportation corridor. It will reduce travel distance by approximately 75 kilometres between Khambhat-Tarapur and Jambusar-Dahej industrial zones.
This will:
- Cut travel time and fuel consumption
- Improve logistics efficiency
- Strengthen trade between Dahej PCPIR (Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region) and Khambhat-Tarapur industrial belt
Wider Regional Impact Across 409 Villages
The project is expected to directly or indirectly benefit around 409 villages, including:
- 152 villages in Anand
- 164 villages in Vadodara
- 81 villages in Bharuch
- Along with improvements to 32 lakes in the region
This large-scale infrastructure development is also expected to generate employment opportunities and reduce rural migration by strengthening local livelihoods.
Future Tourism Potential & Regional Transformation
In addition to its functional benefits, the freshwater reservoir created by the barrage may open opportunities for future tourism development along the riverfront. This could further enhance income generation and community-based economic activity in surrounding areas.
A Transformational Riverfront Infrastructure Project
The Badalpur–Kareli Barrage-cum-Bridge project on the Mahi River represents a major step in integrated regional development. By combining water conservation, irrigation enhancement, transportation infrastructure, and industrial connectivity, the initiative is set to reshape the socio-economic landscape of central and south Gujarat under the leadership of the Bhupendra Patel.
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