Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

4 INFRASTRUCTURE ASSESSMENT OF VADODARA CITY

The principal function of Vadodara Municipal Corporation is the provision of basic services to its
citizens. Municipal services have a direct and immediate effect on the quality of lives of the people in
the city. Poor municipal service can also make it difficult to attract business or industry to an area and
thus it can limit job opportunities for residents. Capability building, corporatisation and partnerships
in municipal services are some of the key reforms required to improve municipal service delivery.
This section further details services offered by VMC to its citizens in the area of water supply,
sewerage and sanitation, storm water drains, solid waste management, roads and bridges, street
lighting, lake restoration, etc.

4.1 WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM

The main sources of water for the Vadodara city are the Sayaji Sarovar (Ajwa) on the northeast and
Mahi river on the northwest of the city. On an average, VMC draws 45-50 MLD from Sayaji
Sarovar. The present raw water delivery system is capable of transmitting 45-50 MLD of discharge
by gravity to the Nimeta water
treatment plant (WTP). The Table 16. Source and quantity of water supply
average per capita water supply is
Source of Supply Approximate Supply
around 183 lpcd with a daily
supply for 45 minutes twice a day. Mahi Radial Collector Wells 110 – 120 MLD

Tube wells are an alternate source Mahi River Tube Wells 55 - 65 – MLD
of water supply in VMC. The Ajwa – Nimeta 65 – 70 MLD
water from these tube wells is City Tube Wells 10 – 15 MLD
directly injected into the
Total Supply 240 – 270 MLD
distribution system. Depending
upon the area served, the tube wells work from 1 to 18 hours everyday. Based on the capacity of
pumps and working hours, the water supplied is believed to be 10 MLD from about 46 tube wells.
These well operate in the areas where the water could not be supplied due to pressure problems. Due
to the low drawl from these tube wells, the water table in the city does not get impacted. The average
water table in the city is around 20 metres and gets recharged regularly due to the presence of
perennial rivers in the north. Besides these tube wells, a series of 56 tube wells in the riverbed and
around the banks of Mahi have been under development. In all, about 56 tube wells have been sunk.
Of these, about 40 wells located on the bank are in working condition with submersible/turbine pumps
already installed and commissioned. These tube wells are used in case of shortage of surface water.
With the help of these wells, VMC has been tiding over the current water crisis in the last couple of
years especially during draught situations.

4.1.1 Water Treatment Plants

Two water treatment plants are located at Nimeta. The capacities of each of the plants are 45 MLD
and 50 MLD respectively. The capacity utilisation of the treatment plants is 73%. Water from
underground sources such as intake wells and tube wells is not treated, but the supplies are
chlorinated.

4-24
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

4.1.2 Service Reservoirs

There are 20 distribution stations within the municipal limits, of which 17 distribution stations have a
ground service reservoir (GSR) and elevated service reservoir (ESR) or overhead tank (OHT), while
three distribution stations have only GSR and pumping arrangement.
The total GSR capacity is about 125 ML and the OHT capacity is about 26 ML, with a total storage of
about 151 ML against the daily yield of 250-280 ML, which is about 55-60% of the daily water
supply. However, this storage capacity is only theoretical. Considering the dead storage, due to pump
suction limitations and overflow, the live storage would be about 80% of the theoretical capacity, i.e.
approx. 120 ML.
A master plan for water supply was prepared in 2004-05 and has the following components.
Strengthening of water supply network
Providing new network and
Providing new storage reservoirs
Based on the priorities given by the consultants, VMC has initiated the following projects with a total
projet cost of around Rs.19.88 crores. This essentially included network strengthening / new
networks.
All other works of network strengthening and construction of new reservoirs to cater to the
development of the city till 2018 have been considered in the City Development Plan.

4.1.3 Issues pertaining to water supply system

Additional requirement of water supply for growing needs: Considering the gross supply of 180
lpcd (both domestic and non-domestic), the requirement of water for the future would increase and is
estimated to be 355-375 MLD (gap of 105-115 MLD) by 2013 as against the present demand of 248
MLD (gap of 8 MLD). The demand projection has been based on the population projection done by
Year Population Population Geometric Polynomial VMC Demand
the technical
for old of Newly Population (MLD) consultants --
Limit added Area (Average) Montgomery
(108.26 (40.74 Sq. Watson Pvt.
Sq.Km) Kms) Ltd. appointed
2001 1305546 61323* by VMC.
2005 1512522 119743 1671711 1592818 1632264 -- Most common
complaints
2008 1659328 140268 1865992 1733199 1799596 310-325
received by
2010 1758814 154217 1995512 1830550 1913031 -- the water
2013 1910466 175541 2189793 1982220 2086006 355-375 supply
department of
VMC are inadequate water supply/pressure and quality of supply. At present, water is supplied
once a day for 40 to 70 minutes. The supply is inadequate in cases when there is change in either one
or more features, such as:
♦ Less water made available, even though it may be adequate for daily use
♦ Change / reduction in frequency / timing of water supply
♦ Water with less pressure, even if it reaches the consumer taps at less pressure
♦ Drought-like situations or technical problems

4-25
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

Areas with inadequate water supply are generally influenced by a combination of the following
factors -- high population density, higher supply rate, inadequate pressure, inadequate supply timing,
discrepancy in service connections and poor operations. The factors are the function of zoning,
supply duration, OHT tank elevation and distribution pipe sizes.
None of the overhead tanks and the booster stations has stand-by power supply. When there is a
power failure, the pumps for the overhead tanks cannot run and the tanks cannot be filled. Hence
during such time, no water can be supplied to the area.
The cost of water recovered from the consumers is so low that it does not recover even 20 % of the
operation expenses of VMC.
A detailed SWOT analysis is provided in annexure III.

4.2 SEWERAGE SYSTEM

Vadodara City has had an underground drainage system since the year 1894. The sewage, which is
collected through a system composed of an underground drainage network, auxiliary pumping stations
(APS) and pressure mains, disposes into the natural drains and rivers after treatment.
The sewerage master plan prepared by VMC in 1999 has not been fully implemented. It has extended
the sewerage system in some of the areas as per the priorities and availability of funds from time to
time. The master plan had the following main components.
♦ Strengthening of sewerage network
♦ Providing new network
♦ Providing new sewage pumping stations and pumping mains
♦ Providing new sewage treatment plant
Based on priorities decided by the consultants, VMC has initiated and completed projects worth Rs.70
crores involving pressure line, gravity mains, etc. Serious problems of untreated sewage getting
released in the river and that of manhole overflowing could be solved after the projects envisaged
under JNNURM get completed.
Some of the projects under progress are the drainage line along Dabhoi road and near Ameet Nagar.
The cost of these projects is around Rs. 25.5 crores; this will be financed from VMC funds and is not
proposed under JNNURM.
The problems faced by the system are related to silt formation in the sewers on account of several
reasons such as breakdowns/caving in for many old trunk mains. For efficient management of the
system, three sewerage zones have been formed. Problems and the appreciation of drainage
inadequacies presently associated with the three drainage zones are described in annexure III.

4.2.1 Coverage of auxiliary pumping stations3

The total sewerage generated by the city of Vadodara is 215 MLD, of which only 180 MLD gets
treated. Though the sewerage treatment plants (STP) have a capacity of 215 MLD, the sewage does
not reach these plants. In spite of having more capacity, the system is not functioning to its fullest
extent. This is also quite evident form that fact that 40% of the VMC area is not covered by the
sewerage network.

3
APS are basically, underground wells provided to collect the sewage and pump to a higher elevation for its further conveyance / disposal.
The pumping machinery is so designed that it can handle lean, average as well as peak flows.

4-26
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

The topography of the city is relatively flat, with the ground mildly sloping from northeast to
southwest. Laying sewers in such a flat topography is
Table 17. Coverage of APS
difficult as the depth of excavation substantially
increases, thus requiring frequent lifting of sewage Drainage zones No of APS
from lower depths. Therefore, on the whole, Vadodara Drainage Zone I 5
has a greater number of Auxiliary Pumping Stations
(APS). Presently, Vadodara has 29 APS and three Drainage Zone II 11
main pumping stations covering all the three drainage Drainage Zone III 10
zones. The table indicates the number of APS in each
of the drainage zones:

Based on the topography, the city is divided into three drainage zones; each of these zones has
separate Sewerage Treatment Plants (STP). At
present, there are two STPs each at Wadi and Table 18. Capacity of STPs
Atladara and one at Tarsali. The old plants at Wadi Drainage Zone Capacity Process
and Atladara have a capacity of 27 MLD each. From 4
Zone I at Tarsali 52 MLD ASP
2000 to 2003, three new plants were constructed at
5
Wadi, Atladara and Tarsali based on the latest Zone-II at 66 MLD ASP
treatment technology. The total capacity of treatment Gajrawadi
plants is 215 MLD. The details are given in the Zone-III at Atladra6 43 MLD UASB
adjacent table.

4.2.2 Issues pertaining to sewerage disposal

Sewage is diverted through the natural drains, as the network does not exist or is inadequate. To
avoid sewage overflowing in the streets and lanes, the lines are connected to these nallahs as a
temporary measure. Hence, as a priority measure, the network needs to be separated and diverted to
STP.
The pollution resulting in Vishwamitri is largely due to the untreated sewage, which enters at
various points across the 21-km odd meandering stretch of the river in the city. Also, the river being
non-perennial, the water flowing in the river for most part of the year is nothing but sewage let out.
The water in the downstream is used for irrigation purpose by the adjoining farms. Lack of storm
water drains also results in the overflowing of sewers and frequent cleaning and maintenance. The
overflowing sewage, many a times, finds its way to the river / nallah / water bodies. Consequently,
rain water is also let out in the sewers. Hence, one of the prime objectives of the department is to
separate sewage from storm water.
The sewerage system has not reached the newly developed areas of the city. The sewage from this
area needs to be collected and conveyed to the treatment plant location and treated before it is
discharged in the river.
The entire area is not covered with the sewerage system, the sizes of the pipelines are inadequate and
the old trunk mains are caving in or collapsing.
The master plan identified the following problems with the sewerage collection and disposal system:

4
The old 9 MLD STP was demolished to build new 52 MLD STP based on Activated Treatment Process.
5
There are 2 STPS at Gajrawadi. The old 27 Mld is conventional treatment facility having primary and secondary treatment units.
6
The new STP constructed in 2002 is advanced treatment plant based on UASB Process. The old 27 MLD is conventional treatment facility
having primary and secondary treatment units.

4-27
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

♦ Main lines are overloaded.

♦ Many APS are old and have less capacities.
♦ Old pumping machinery operates at as low as 20 to 25% efficiency.
♦ Pumping stations have non-operative screens.
♦ Pressure lines as well as receiving gravity lines are of inadequate size.
♦ Untreated sewage is discharged into the river.
♦ 40 % of the VMC area does not have sewerage facility and the STP facility is inadequate.
A detailed SWOT analysis is provided in annexure III.

4.3 STORM WATER DRAINAGE SYSTEM

On an average, Vadodara receives 900 mm rainfall every year. Vishwamitri river, a minor river,
passes through the city and another minor river Jambuva flows from the south-east of the city to join
Vishwamitri river further southwards. There are many watercourses called "Kaans" which form the
main storm water drainage for the city. The storm water from the entire city drains into a few of the
major kaans, which drains into the river. Thus the network of the two rivers and kaans forms the
storm water drainage system for Vadodara.
Most of the old city area has storm water drainage. Presently Vadodara has about 150 km of storm
water drains and about 50 km of major kaans, which along with the River Vishwamitri crossing
across the city covers about 25% of the municipal limits. Owing to the fast growth of Vadodara in the
past, VMC had prepared a master plan for storm water drainage in the year 1996. This was prepared
considering a phase-wise implementation program but only a few drains were constructed based on
priority and funds availability. The master plan envisaged an investment of Rs. 116 crores, but VMC
has carried out works of not more than Rs. 15 crores i.e. 10% of the master plan. As a result not much
development of storm water drain has happened. The map depicts the existing storm water network
and chronic water logging areas in Vadodara. The projects taken under JNNURM are essentially to
take care of these water logging areas shown in the map. It is also evident from the investment priority
that storm water has been given the third priority.
Five major natural drains (nallahs) carry the entire storm water from the city and drain it into the river
Vishwamitri. The walled city has storm water drains below the footpath flowing from Mandvi gate to
all the four gates viz. Lehripura gate, Champaner gate, Pani gate and Gendi gate, with the catch drains
provided on the kerb. The details of the each of the major, minor and other kaans is provided in
annexure III.

4.3.1 Issue pertaining to storm water drainage system

Lack of capacities of the kaans often lead to a flood situation in the entire upstream network linked
with these kaans. Planning of the drains has been in a piecemeal fashion as per the availability of
funds. Hence, the drainage systems are developed in areas near these kaans, rather than in far away
areas. The common issues faced with respect to storm water drains are detailed below:
The development of housing complexes on the watercourses has compelled the natural kaans to
change its alignment and gradient.
Increase of unauthorised construction and encroachment by slum dwellers at many places along the
Bhukhi Kotar area has reduced the section of the Bhukhi drain downstream. All the storm water
collected in this drain passes through the city, creating a flood-like situation during monsoon,
especially in the northern part of the city. The section has reduced primarily due to encroachments and
the dumping of garbage and wastes along the banks of the Bhukhi. The present section of the Bhukhi

4-28
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

drain is highly inefficient to carry the estimated flood flow. Every year during the monsoon, floods
affect the residential area of TP-12.
In order to resolve the problem of flooding of Gorwa area even in the case of moderate monsoon
showers, a kaans was created from Gorwa - High-Tension road - TB Hospital, joining the original
kaans. In spite of this, the water logging in Gorwa continues.
The drainage pattern of the Ruparel kaans has been disturbed due to alteration in its alignment. This
has been due to the development of TP schemes and allied activities in the vicinity of the kaans. The
kaans was originally envisaged to serve the areas of TP Schemes 3 and 4.
The inadequate storm water drainage (SWD) has also led to silting in SWD thus resulting in reduction
in losses in the carrying capacity of the drains. For decades, VMC has not carried out any major up-
gradation/augmentation/renovation of the system.
Due to the development of the city, low-lying areas have been raised resulting in the reduction of
storage/attenuation of storm water. Adequate provisions have not been made to drain the additional
runoff generated due to loss of storage. Also, in some of the cases, the natural SWD has been
obstructed by development activity.
The drains are often punctured to construct obstructing services, thus leaving many of these locations
in a poor state of structural repair.
The rectangular drains have limited access; as they have flat gradients, they are more prone to silting
than pipe drains. They are more difficult to maintain and keep free of silt. Access to some drains for
maintenance is restricted by development over the manholes. Also, many junctions have direct body
connections, making it difficult to clean them.
The area of Vadodara has increased threefold in the last three decades, but commensurate
development in storm water drainage has not taken place. Four chronic flooding spots have been
identified in the city area. The first is the area comprising Ellora Park, Gotri and Laxmipura. This area
does not have a drainage system because the levels do not permit the laying of drainage lines up to the
discharge point. The Ajwa Road and Waghodia Road area has a complex problem -- storm water from
the east of the city enters this area, but cannot flow further down as the area does not have drains large
enough to carry storm water. The Warashia area also suffers from this problem.
Finally, there is the Manjalpur area, a low-lying area, which lacks proper drainage facility as the
disposal point is at a distance. A kaans passing through this area got filled up creating drainage
problems for the area.
Kishanwadi area is another low-lying area with insufficient drainage facilities.
A brief list of the areas/roads under VMC facing acute flooding problems during monsoon is given in
annexure III along with a detailed SWOT analysis.

4.4 ROADS
The city also has a very well-developed road network -- three flyovers, four under passes and two ring
roads of 40 meter and 36 meter each (refer annexure III). The city is well connected with the major
urban centres by Express Highway No.1, National Highway (NH8) and State highways. It also has
major road links with Vaghodia in the east, Dabhoi in the southeast and Jambusar in the southwest.
The total road length within the VMC limits is about 1000 km. The road network of the city is well
developed in almost 70% of the area and caters to around 80% of the city’s population.
Approximately, 11.47 sq. km. of area is covered by road, which is 10.59% of the total area. More than
80% of the roads are surfaced, of which most are black topped while 19% roads are subsurface i.e.
earthen roads.

4-29
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

Reviewing the present status, it appears that development achieved till date matches the vision made
for the master plan, but with the changing scenario of development, changing priorities and
unforeseen factors, some new links and upgradation of the links are necessary.
The Central Institute of Road Transport, Pune (CIRT), through the Vadodara Urban Development
Authority (VUDA) had carried out a detailed transportation study for the city. Their recommendations
have also been implemented at various stages (as discussed in section 0).

4.5 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

Around 390 grams per capita per day of waste totalling to roughly 510 tonnes per day (TPD) of waste
is generated in the city. VMC has restricted itself to handle domestic waste, trade waste, construction
debris, street sweeping waste and other non-hazardous waste. The total waste collected is 440 TPD.
The primary collection involves waste disposal by households and conservancy work. The sweepers
in the conservancy department in the respective wards collect the waste. The street sweeping work is
being handled and monitored by the ward’s office and is carried out twice a day i.e. in two shifts (7
am to 11 am and 2 pm to 6 pm).
There was no SWM master plan for prior to 2005. As a part of the preparations for the JNNURM, in
the second half of 2005, VMC prepared a master plan for SWM for the period 2006 to 2011. Till date,
there is no implementation of the SWM master plan; the entire master plan proposal has been taken
under JNNURM.

4.5.1 Composition of waste

The waste collection comprises organic, inert material and other waste.
The average waste composition of Vadodara at different points such as at source, at collection
container and at the landfill site are listed as under:

The above table indicates Table 19. Average waste composition – source, collection
that at the source, the container and landfill site
percentage of organic matter Sl. Waste Type Percentages
is very high (76.80%) and Source of Container Landfill
that of inert material is only generation
7-8%. At the container site 1 Paper 8.49 5.75 4.5
with the removal of 2 Plastic 5.33 4.93 13.4
recyclables and organics, the 3 Glass 0.01 1.54 0
inert waste percentage 4 Metal 0.84 2.03 0
increases to 32%. The waste 5 Organic matter 76.80 52.17 35
from these containers is 6 Inert Material 8.53 33.58 47.1
collected on a daily basis.
Total 100 100 100

4-30
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

4.5.2 Collection & Storage Systems of SWM

The street/road sweeping is carried out with the help of long brooms, tricycles, and six bin handcarts.
Six bin lorry (2500 nos.), handcarts (87 nos.) and tricycle (28 nos.) are being used for primary waste
collection in the city. Door-to-door collection of waste is in the inception phase; most of the waste is
being collected in storage
receptacles. Table 20. Collection & Storage Systems of SWM in Vadodara city
Particulars Specifications Existing Proposed for
The infrastructure
(Shape & Size) Numbers future
available for waste storage
includes 441 dumper RCC Bins (capacity) -- 150 Replaced by
containers
placer containers of 3.5
cum., nine 4.5 cum Trolleys (capacity) -- 2500 1000
containers, and 150 Containers (capacity) 3.5 cu.m. 450 150
Reinforced Concrete Dumper Placers -- 34 15
Cement (RCC) rings.
Apart from the secondary Others, please specify
storage points, a number Dumper Tripper truck -- 20 --
of open yards are present Peak up van -- 10 --
for temporary dumping of Road sweeping M/c -- -- 02
waste.
The collected waste is transported from the storage receptacles to the landfill site in dumper placer
and closed dumper trucks. Thirty-four dumper placer vehicles and 20 dumper trucks is the available
infrastructure for transportation of waste. Most of the vehicles have exhausted their design life and
cannot be used for the regular cleaning operation.

4.5.3 Transportation of waste

Waste transportation is being carried out with the help of dumper trucks, container lifting and
transportation vehicles, and private tractors. The same is carried in closed containers. A dumper truck
is fully covered with plastic/tarpaulin sheets.

In view of the present city population and area, the

total number of containers required for collecting Table 21. Transportation System of SWM
city waste should be around 650. Since VMC has Particulars Existing number
commenced door-to-door waste collection, the
collected waste is being transported directly to the Truck-Tipper 20
compost plant/disposal site. The existing 450 Dumper Placers 347
containers are/would be sufficient for city waste Tricycle 28
storage. It has been found that about 25% of the
containers need to be replaced every year and the Others (please specify)
procurement of 100 to 150 new containers can Six bin lorry 2500
adjust that. Hand carts 87
An additional 15 dumper placers would be required to replace old DCM make dumper placer. The
repair and maintenance of 12-15 year-old dumper placers (hydraulic lifting vehicles) is difficult as the
spare parts are not easily available in the market. To carry out mechanised road sweeping, two road
sweeping equipment are further required.

7
Fifteen dumper placers are more than 10 years old

4-31
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

4.5.4 Disposal site

The dumping site is located at Vadsar, about 10 kms away from the city with a total area in use of
12145 sq. mts. The roadside boundary of the site is fenced and the dumped waste is being covered
periodically. Provision for gas venting and leachate collection is not provided. To spread, level and
compact the disposed Table 22. Waste Processing Facilities of compost plant at Atladara
waste, Excavator/
Pneumatic Tyred bulldozer Process - Mechanical Aerobic Composting by windrows
and Chain bulldozers are Plant Capacity- 250 TPD MSW
being used. One more
Land Area – 35,000 Sq.Mts
tyred dozer is required to
manage further increased Agency - M/s Chemtrols Engg. Ltd., Mumbai
solid waste generation. Type Of Contract - “BOOT” & LEASE Agreement basis
VMC has one incineration Lease Period - 20 Years
plant located at Gajrawadi
Monthly Lease Rent - Rs. 12000/- with increment of 5% every year
in Ward no. 3; it was set
up in 1999. This facility is meant for the disposal of small animals. The Indian Medical Association
(IMA) is dealing with bio-medical waste in Vadodara. Approximately, two per cent of the total waste
generated is biomedical waste which is handled by an incinerator, auto calving and waste shredding
facility. About 800 hospitals and private clinics have been registered under this facility. The Gujarat
Pollution Control Board monitors the disposal of the biomedical waste.
The waste process facility (compost plant) is located at Atladara STP premises. The capacity of this
plant for treating un-segregated solid waste is 250 TPD. The biodegradable waste is segregated and
composted in the plant and the reject is transported to the dumping site. This has been successfully
functioning at 80% of its capacity since the last six months; this is one step taken towards waste
minimisation at the dumping site.

4.5.5 Issues pertaining to SWM

♦ Mixing of bio-medical waste with municipal solid waste
♦ Disposal of waste with municipal solid waste by a large number of private clinics and hospitals
♦ Burning of waste at storage places and dumping site
♦ Odour nuisance surrounding compost plant and dumping site, during the monsoon season
♦ Presence of waste on the streets, lanes and by-lanes in the absence of a proper disposal facility
♦ System of door-to-door collection which has commenced, but needs 100% coverage
♦ Lack of organised rag-pickers
♦ Poor participation from NGO/CBO

4.6 LAKES AND WATER BODIES

Vadodara city has a general slope from east to west and north to south. Over 30 water bodies have
existed as a part of the hydraulic network. Some of them like Sursagar in the heart of the city have
been provided with masonry walls. The Vadodara branch canal of the Sardar Sarovar Project, running
on north & east boundary is a perennial canal and was a recent addition to the hydraulic system. The
lakes are an integral part of the hydraulic system of Vadodara city and have influenced the
development of the city so far.
The quality of water in all lakes is not suitable for human consumption. There is no aquatic life,
barring some stray cases. Weed growth is abundant. Lakes provided with masonry walls are found to

4-32
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

be in dilapidated conditions and require major repairs or replacement. Slums have also developed on
the banks and in some cases, even the tank bed is encroached upon. The garbage dumping has further
degraded the environment leading to unhealthy living conditions for the slum dwellers and people in
the vicinity. The lakes now act as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Lakes, which served the basic needs of society and provided a healthy environment, are in disuse and
are turning into health hazards. It is therefore imperative to preserve and revive these water bodies and
also protect the water quality.
A detailed SWOT analysis is carried out – refer to annexure III.

4.7 RIVER WATER

The river Vishwamitri was a free-flowing river. It did not have any storage dam on it or its tributaries.
With the growth of the city, a lot of development started taking place, which included,
♦ Reservoirs at Ajwa, Pratappura, Dhanora, Haripura, & Warda, on the tributaries of Vishvamitri
♦ National Highway & Express Highway and Ring Road
♦ Narmada Main Canal of Sardar Sarovar Project
♦ Vadodara Branch Canal (VBC) of Sardar Sarovar project
With the development of the city, the low lying areas around the river started becoming vulnerable to
floods. The worst affected flood was in 2005, when large-scale damages were reported -- human life
and the slums were badly affected. One third of the city area suffered badly. The water level at
Kalaghoda reached 39.63 ft against the highest of 35 ft in past and safe level of 24.0 ft. The total
damage reported by VMC amounted to Rs. 293.00 crores. The losses suffered by citizens are expected
to have been nearly of the same order. Such constant threat to life and property greatly hampers the
development of the city.
The development along both banks of Vishwamitri has made the city more vulnerable to floods.
Added to this, the reservoirs upstream had an influence on the flow, as water could be required to be
released at short notice for safety of the reservoirs. The flows got further regulated through bridges
and waterways constructed on the NH, by-pass road, Narmada Canal and VBC of SSP. The lower
areas of the city also started developing. All these factors resulted in the city becoming more and
more vulnerable to flooding.
The river Vishwamitri has been meandering in the past; some steps have been taken to straighten the
river channel near some of the meanders. However, though this helped in reducing erosion, it
increased the capacity of Vishwamitri only marginally.
Bhukhi inundated some parts of the city on the west side. VMC had commissioned studies to divert
part of the flow to river Mahi through river Mini. This diversion could marginally improve the
situation. A 100-year flood of Bhukhi at VBC crossing was estimated as 270.9 cumecs. Check flood
was decided as 353 cumecs by SSNNL. However, for safety, capacity further needed to be
considered.
Possibility of river front development had not been looked into so far. The river is hardly 20 meter
wide at bottom and varying from 80 to 100 metres atop. However, due to meandering, the belt of land
occupied is wider. If the river is resectioned, open area can be found for river front development in a
limited way.
The riverfront could open more avenues for developments of the city. The plan should therefore
consider the following aspects as a single programme -- diversion of Bhukhi, resectioning and
diversion of Vishwamitri river and river front development.

4-33
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

It is therefore imperative to consider development of both the rivers in a composite manner. This
would also assist in drawing a scheme for passing the floodwater.

4.7.1 Issues pertaining to river

The issues, which need to be considered, are:
a. How best to divert Bhukhi river and for what capacity
b. How best to divert and resection river Vishwamitri
c. How to incorporate river front development, encourage the growth of the city as a center for
services and knowledge, and promote tourism and recreation
d. How to use VBC of Sardar Sarovar for enhancing the carrying capacity of Vishwamitri

4.8 PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS

4.8.1 Physical Planning

VMC has so far prepared 39 Town Planning Schemes (TP Schemes). Of them, 17 schemes have been
finalised; four are in preliminary sanctioned stage, 17 schemes in draft stage are sanctioned and one
scheme is pending with the Government for approval. The TP schemes cover the major part of the
city. VMC had initially conceived 70 TP schemes; as the city limits were extended, it further revised
it to add another 14 schemes. Some of these would be taken on a priority basis within the next two
years. Plans have also been drawn for another 13 schemes, especially in the priority villages of
Tandalja, Atladra, Manjalpur, Gotri, and Vadsar. Around 4500 hectares are still not covered with TP
schemes. The finalised TP schemes have open spaces and garden reservations of about 16 hectares.
The land use is presented in a separate statement with a break-up of various uses.
Land use pattern: The land use break-up of the Vadodara city provided equal share of land for
residential purposes. However, the industrial area has reduced considerably from 18.02% to 4.31%,
which also substantiates the decline in industrial activity. At the same time, the area under
government land has increased to 7%, which implies a shift towards the service sector.
The share of recreation area has also reduced by 1.17% from 2.58% and is far below the norms of
10%. The area under roads is adequate, around 15.35%; VMC however, needs to focus on
improvement in the riding quality of these roads.
Table 23. Land use pattern of Vadodara Municipal Corporation area
Sl Land use Existing in 1991 Current (2005)
Sq.km % Sq.km %
1 Residential 41.07 37.83 52.45 35.25
2 Commercial 1.51 1.39 4.95 3.33
3 Industrial 19.57 18.02 6.41 4.31
4 Government 0 0 10.73 7.21
5 Recreational 2.8 2.58 1.74 1.17
6 Restricted area 6.33 5.83 6.76 4.54
7 Road 32.89 30.32 22.84 15.35
Total Developed area 104.17 95.97 105.89 71.16
8 Government Restricted 0 0 3.99 2.68
90 Agriculture 0 0 16.07 10.80

4-34
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

Sl Land use Existing in 1991 Current (2005)

Sq.km % Sq.km %
10 Other vacant land 0 0 20.09 13.50
11 Water bodies 4.38 4.03 2.77 1.86
Total 108.55 100.00 148.81 100.00

The TP schemes also accommodate reservation for economically weaker sections (EWS), e.g. TP
scheme 60, which is sanctioned at draft stage has kept provision of 10,000 to 12,000 houses for the
Gujarat Housing Board. The 39 TP schemes have reservation for EWS housing of around 33.50
hectare and would be made available on the final sanction of the schemes.
Vadodara city was once known as the City of Gardens. It has about 62 gardens and a zoo. The
biggest garden is called Sayajibaug. In the past, Vadodara enjoyed sound recreational facilities. In the
last 30 years, the population of the city has almost doubled, but the recreational facilities have not
proportionately increased. The growing urbanisation and the demand for more housing and
transportation have led to a decline in urban greens and water bodies.
A similar situation exists with the water bodies; these have reduced nearly by half, from 4.38 sq. km
in 1991 to 2.77 sq. km in 2005, causing concern. The increase in slum population has also led to a
proliferation of illegal encroachments on public and open spaces, reserved land and recreational land.
If this trend continues, i.e. if the recreational areas, water bodies, and greenery reduce, the city would
deteriorate both in terms of the quality of life index as well as on environmental parameters. It is thus
imperative to strike an ecological balance by taking appropriate steps to rejuvenate the greenery and
recharge the water bodies of the city.

4.8.2 Environmental Aspects

The environment of a city is a critical determinant of the health of its inhabitants and consequently
productivity. The problem of environmental pollution in the city has become a matter of concern in
recent decades due to population explosion, industrialisation, urbanisation and increase in
transportation. The pollution level in the city is determined by the water and air quality. The Gujarat
Pollution Control Board (GPCB) is responsible for monitoring water quality (both surface and
ground) and air quality.

4.8.3 Quality of major water bodies

Regular sampling is done to analyse the quality of major water bodies within and outside the city of
Vadodara. The quality of major water bodies, which are also the source of water supply to the city, is
detailed below:
Sursagar Lake: The testing of the water of Sursagar lake in the city has been done by the GPCB
regularly. The lake is mainly used as a recreational area. The physical parameters over the period
2004-05 indicate excess total dissolved solids (TDS), very high bio-chemical oxygen demand (BOD)
and chemical oxygen demand (COD) content and low levels of Dissolved Oxygen.
This makes the lake unsuitable for aquatic life. Construction activities within the lake have also led to
an increase in the level of dissolved solids in the lake. The waste generated from the recreational
activities around the lakes also pollutes the lake.
Sayaji Sarovar, Ajwa: The Sayaji Sarovar at Ajwa has been the first drinking water supply reservoir
of the city. It is still functioning effectively; water drawn from this sarovar is treated at the Nimeta
Treatment Plant before being supplied to the city. The physical and chemical characteristics of the

4-35
 Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

sarovar are tested by GPCB. The annual average values for the various parameters for 2004-05 are
given below. The values indicate a low level of TDS and slightly high Dissolved Oxygen content.
Table 24. Status of Water Quality Lakes / Talav in Gujarat (2004-05)
Parameters
Name and Location of
Lake/Talav PH TDS DO BOD COD NH3
value (mg/l) (mg/l) (mg/l) (mg/l) (mg/l) TKN PO4
Sursagar lake 8.1 2186 4.6 07 45 2.24 4.48 0.13
Shri Sayaji Sarovar 8.27 128 8.7 2.5 03 1.12 3.08 0.04
Standards (IS 2490 Part-1) 5.5 to 8.5 500-2000 6-8 2-4 10
Source: GPCB Annual Report, 2004-05

4.8.4 Quality of Mahi river water

River Mahisagar is the city’s most important source of water supply. River Mini passes as a narrow
stretch through the industrial areas and meets the River Mahisagar near the village Hingloi, while the
River Vishwamitri passes through the city. River Vishwamitri has been reduced to a mere stream;
untreated sewage is dumped into this river. The water quality for River Mahi was tested at Vasad
village near Vadodara. The parameters tested by Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) are well
within the prescribed limits making the waters potable. These are listed below

As far as the river Vishwamitri is Parameters

Name and River and
concerned, the pollution parameters DO BOD
location
show exceptionally high values and is PH value (mg/l) (mg/l)
mainly due to the sewage disposal
outlets. Mahi river near Vasad 7.41-9.19 7.1 2.2

4.8.5 Air Quality

The NOx and SO2 levels have been below the GPCB prescribed standards throughout the period 1994-
99. The suspended particulate matters (SPM) levels have always remained constantly above the
prescribed limits for residential and rural areas. This can be mainly attributed to the high
concentrations of dust and other construction materials in most parts of the city. Unpaved margins of
roads on the outskirts of the city on the highways are mainly responsible for the particulate matter in
high concentrations.
The SPM levels could be reduced in the residential areas of the city with effective maintenance of the
margins of the roads through paving, regular cleaning etc.
To summarise, the quantity of SPM in the Nandesari area is above industrial standards, which is a
matter of concern. Also, some of the residential areas near the Dandia bazaar and the fire station show
higher levels of SPM. In terms of SOx and NOx, the levels are well within the standards, which
makes it a good environment. The areas where GPCB monitors ambient air quality are detailed below.

4-36
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

Location of Monitoring Location and Name of the place9 SPM SO2 Nox
Station8 SPM SO2 NOX
GPCB Office, Racecourse 214 03 21
Nandesari CETP
GIDC-Makarpura 160 26 56
GIDC
M-15Vijaynagar,Harni Road 112 10 21
Nandesari (by GEMI) 275 19 30
Dandia Bazar, Nr.Nyaymandir, 246 19 28
Bayer ABS, GIDC
Nandesari 566 16 25 At Petrol Pump, Sayajigunj Police
Chowki 197 05 18
Vadodara
31, Prerna Park Society, Gorwa 217 10 16
AAQM by Seres
Monitoring 329 02 15 Nandesari CETP 305 19 30
GPCB Office, GERI GPCB Office 169 11 19
Compound 168 11 19
Dandia Bazar 292 17 27
Racecourse
Standards (rural and residential areas) 200 80 80
Dandia Bazar, Fire
Standards (industrial areas) 500 120 120
Station 280 18 27
Status of AAQ in Vadodara (once in a year 2004-05)
Makarpura (by IPCL) 153 21 29
All
Gorwa (by Alembic) 11 11 the values are in µg/m 3 = microgrammes per normal cubic
Harni (by IOCL) 106 10 21 meter & average.
Standards (rural and
200 80 80
residential areas) Location SPM SO2 NOx
Standards (industrial Padmavati Shopping Centre, Nyaymandir 980 03 03
areas) 500 120 120
At Petrol Pump, Sayajigunj 197 05 18
Status of AAQ in Vadodara (average of 2004-05)
At Dandia Bazar 246 19 28

4.9 URBAN TRANSPORT SITUATION

The bulk of vehicular traffic movement is handled by 30 main roads, which add up to around 303
kms. length; no major addition to the roads has taken place in the last few years. The vehicular
population is increasing at an alarming rate. The number of vehicles registered in Vadodara city was
close to 9 lakhs in 2005 and the number is expected to be around 15 lakhs by 2010. On an average, the
vehicular population is increasing at a rate of around 8-9 % per year. The rate of growth is likely to be
higher in the coming years with vehicle prices dropping, affordable financing schemes increasing and
disposable income being on the rise. Further, the increasing influx of floating vehicles and transit
vehicles would worsen the traffic situation by 2010.
More than 50% of the existing vehicular population comprise two-wheelers. However, it is well
documented that more and more people prefer four-wheelers due to easy availability of vehicle
finance and longer equate monthly instalments (EMI) terms. Even if there is a 5% shift in vehicle
holding pattern, road space would further increase considerably. If new roads are not laid and the
existing roads are not widened with proper provision for pedestrian traffic movement within the next
two to three years, it is expected that the average speed of vehicular traffic would drop to less than 8

8
Data has been generated from November 2004 onwards. HC is in PPM, CO=mg/Nm3
9
Yearly average is calculated on the criteria of CPCB, i.e. at least 104 samples (24 hrly) per year/station.
All the values are in µg/m 3 = microgrammes per normal cubic meter & average

4-37
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

kmph. In other words, the time taken during peak hours to travel from e.g. Makarpura to Sayajigunj
will be more than an hour.
This grim scenario can be averted by carefully planning future roads, prescribing and adhering to
standards in road construction and maintenance, incorporating the latest technology in road building
and maintenance, strictly implementing RTO rules and above all, educating citizens through an
effective communication strategy.

4.9.1 IPT backbone of public transport system

Public transport in Vadodara constitutes city buses and intermediate public transport (IPT) systems --
auto rickshaws, taxis and tempos. The Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) operates
the city bus service. Additionally, a few industrial establishments on the outskirts of the city such as in
the GIDC area, IPCL, GSFC etc. operate their own buses. These buses, along with private operators,
supplement the GSRTC services. City bus transport has not grown in proportion with the growth in
population. Also, city buses have not seen any considerable growth since 1986; this has however
popularised the IPT system, which plays a vital role in city passenger transport.
There has been a gradual increase in the number of IPT vehicles every year and among the IPT
vehicles auto-rickshaws are growing at a rate of 4.76% p.a. as against taxis, which are growing at a
high rate of 25.28% p.a.
There is a poor supply of public buses in the city; a major portion of the demand is being met by an
extensive intermediate/transport system primarily. IPT operation is reasonably self regulated and is
looked after by the operators’ union.
In terms of regional and national connectivity, the city is also well connected to all the major
economic centres by other modes -- air and rail. Analysis of air, railways and public transport is
further detailed in annexure III. Some of the issues identified with respect to urban transport are
elucidated further.

4.9.2 Issues pertaining to public transport system

It is evident that the increase of population and growth of vehicles call for proper planning and
improvement of existing roads and bridges, and widening of existing road / bridges / under pass as per
traffic requirement. The issues associated with the present status that can influence further
development are inadequate roads to accommodate efficient public transport system and non-
availability of land for road widening.
There has been a delay in the finalisation of TP schemes and non-availability of land for completion
of missing links -- links connecting to the Vadodara bypass and approach road near railway crossing,
Dabhoi road and Atladra are incomplete.
The city also needs an updated study on traffic management. The present study is old and outdated.
There has been a lack of proper road network, river bridges and flyovers. With the increased
population, the pressure would increase on existing vehicles and public transport/ IPT system.
The city roads have a high accident rate. The reasons may be the mounting volume of traffic on city
roads, the lack of traffic control infrastructure like signals, roads margins, width of road, etc. and
inefficient traffic management.
The number of GSRTC buses operating within the city has declined from around 200 in 2003 to
around 85 in 2005. GSRTC currently runs second hand buses in the city, which are first used for state
transport, then re-painted and used in the city. It however, does not plan to increase its number of
buses and is willing to hand over the entire city operations to VMC, as has been done in other cities.

4-38
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

4.10 SLUMS DEVELOPMENT AND ACCESS TO URBAN BASIC SERVICES

Development of industries in Vadodara led to the influx of unskilled job seekers and daily-wagers
besides skilled and educated workforce. The former has led to the growth of slums where poor
working class people live. The initial increase in the slum population coincided with an increase in
commercial and industrial activities, leading to inmigration and growth in the number of slums. From
192 slums in 1972, the number has gone up to 336 in 1996. Ward no. 10 (Gorwa) has 52% of its
population living in slums and has the maximum slums concentration (94 out of total 336) -- refer to
ward map and slum map.
Lack of proper drainage facilities, paved
400 NUMBER OF SLUMS
336 336
roads, sanitation facilities etc. have
350
affected the quality of life of people
300
living in the slums.
250 210
192
200
150
100
50
0
1972 1982 1992 1996

Source: Environmental Map Book: USAID

4.10.1 Ownership patters

As per VMC, there are more than 336 slum pockets housing more than 51,439 families and making up
nearly 2,57,195 (20%) of the total population of
Slums by Land Ownership the city. There is, however, an uneven distribution
4% 1%1%
of the slums. The old city area naturally cannot
7%
1% afford any slums, as there is no patch available
43%
with already overcrowded dwellings.
The graph depicts the percentage distribution of
24%
the total 336 slums in the city according to the
ownership of land. As seen below, the maximum
Govt Corp number of slums i.e, 43% (146) slums is on the
Govt+ Pvt Pvt
Govt+Corp Gov+Corp+Pvt government land, followed by 37%(124 slums) on
Corp+Pvt private land and 20% (66 slums) on Municipal
land.

4.10.2 Access to basic services

The population pressure has made Coverage of services in Slums
the existing infrastructure for
providing basic services utterly Streetlight 96%
inadequate. The chart below shows Toilet 42%
the coverage of basic services like
water, drainage, roads etc. in the Roads 57%
slums. SWM
80%
The urban poor today live in very Drainage 46%
cramped conditions, and very often
Water Supply 88%
as many as eight to ten persons live
in a single room with poor 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 120%

4-39
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

ventilation and sanitation facilities.

While some of the dwellings have access to water supply connections provided by the corporation,
many others do not have access to protected water supply.It has been reported that almost 80% of the
dwelling units in the slums of Vadodara are one-room units and 50% of them measure less than 100 to
200 Sq. ft. in area. Migrant labourers often share a single kuchcha room on shift basis.
Among public utilities and services, individual sanitary units are less by 56% and surfaced streets are
available in 57 % slum areas only. Street light facility is almost covered and water supply facility is
provided to around 88 % of the slums.
In case of slums that have developed in the periphery of the lakes and along the bank of the river
Vishwamitri, the sullage water has polluted the water bodies.

4.10.3 Housing development

Shortage of housing can be identified as No. of Housing units Cost in Rs.
one of the major reasons for growth of Name of the scheme built Million
the slum population in the city. Two
Slum quarters at
schemes are pursued by the different places in 1160 7.511
government: EWS housing under which Corporation Land
3500 units of 21sq.m have been built. Plinth quarters 519
Under this scheme, Rs. 5000 of the total
cost of Rs 62500 of the unit is given as Low Cost quarters 1464 4.538
subsidy, Rs. 22500 contribution is EWS Housing Units 5162
required from the beneficiary and the LIG Housing Units 2196
rest is given by way of loan. The MIG Housing Units 750
second scheme is that of Valmiki
Total 11107
Ambedkar Awas Yojana (VAMBAY)
targeting BPL families. These are 15 sq.mts units with independent toilets for each unit, costing Rs.
50000. This scheme has two components -- 50% subsidy and 50% loan. The government has
discontinued both these schemes.

4.10.4 SEWA survey

The Gujarat Mahila Housing SEWA Trust carried out a slum survey on behalf of VMC. The survey
was carried out in 297 slums in different parts of
the city. VMC has identified 190 slums for Sl. Basic
No. of
Infrastructure No. of Slums
providing “onsite services”. The basic Available
Dwellings
infrastructure availability varies with location of
1 NIL 11 1576
slums; 88% already have water supply and 96%
2 1 96 15327
avail of streetlights. Supplementation of the basic
3 2 55 11090
infrastructure requirements is likely to provide
4 3 25 4366
faster relief to the slum dwellers. Further, re-
5 4 03 364
location always causes some physical and mental
Total 190 32723
hardship. The number of slums and dwellings
which need supplementation on the basis of the SEWA survey data is as under :
The survey has been used by VMC to detail the development programme for improving living
conditions in the slums.
The five basic services identified are – water supply, sewerage, roads, solid waste collection and street
lighting. The survey of 190 slums reveals that 11 slums do not enjoy any of the five services. Ninety-

4-40
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

six slums enjoy at least one service. Accordingly the above table summarises the availability of
services in slum pockets

4.11 SOCIAL FACILITIES

For the healthy development of the city, it is imperative to plan good medical and educational
facilities. The section details the status of each of these in Vadodara.

4.11.1 Health facilities

There are four hospitals run by the state government in the city. In addition to these hospitals, a
number of hospitals are run by various trusts. The corporation maintains 16 dispensaries, three mobile
medical dispensaries and one integrated health centre in the city. These dispensaries cover all the
wards of the city. The four main government hospitals are Shri Sayaji General Hospital (1013 beds),
Jamnabai hospital (286 beds), ESIS hospital (200 beds) and ID hospital (100 beds).

4.11.2 Existing Health Institutions

There are several health institutes in Vadodara like government hospitals, trust hospitals, municipal
dispensaries, municipal integrated health centres, mobile dispensaries, vaccination centres, family
planning centres and around 300 anganwadis, as listed in
Type No.s
the table.
Government Hospitals 4
Considering public health in Vadodara, as per the decadal
Trust Hospitals 17
statistics of 1991-2001 the birth rate is 21.6 per 1000
Municipal Dispensaries 16 population, death rate is 7.6 per 1000 population, and infant
Municipal Integrated Health Centre 1 mortality rate is 43 per 1000 live births. It would be rather
Mobile Dispensaries 3 pertinent to note, that while on the one hand, the birth rate
has declined from 27 in 1981-1991 to 21.6 in 1991-2001,
Vaccination Centres 765
the death rate on the other hand has actually increased from
Family Planning Centres 21 7.4 in 1981-1991 to 7.6, which could be due to deteriorating
Total 827 health conditions and lack of adequate health facilities.
On studying the disease patterns, one finds that only a particular type of disease will take place in
certain places at a particular period of time. For example, during the monsoons, the incidence of
epidemic diseases is very high. Places, which are prone to water logging like the slums, tend to breed
mosquitoes, leading to epidemics of malaria. In summer, due to water shortages, the people in the
slums draw water from unreliable sources and consume cold drinking water by frequently using ice.
This ice used is highly contaminated giving rise to various diseases like cholera, diarrhoea, and
jaundice. These diseases mainly spread in the months of June, July and August.
Diseases like diarrhoea and dysentery arise in areas where contamination occurs due to problems in
drainage lines and water supply pipelines. Apart from these diseases, children are often plagued by
common infectious diseases like Chicken Pox, Mumps and Diptheria.

4-41
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

4.11.3 Education facilities

Vadodara has a legacy of being a rich cultural and educational centre. Vadodara is known for
imparting quality education. The patronage of educational institutions in Vadodara started with
Maharaja Sayajirao; the city has built further on the academic infrastructure established by him.

The famous Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) is located in Vadodara; it is the only university in
Gujarat with English as the medium of
VMC schools details instruction. It has 13 faculty and 17
Category of Numbers residential hostels, four of which are for
Nos.
Institution Students Teachers Rooms female students. The university caters to
Pre-Primary 67 5201 128 128 over 30,000 students.
Primary 131 57828 1436 1029For administration of education, the
Total 198 63029 1564 1157 Municipal Corporation of Vadodara has
divided the city into three zones. These
zones are independent of the “Ward” structure of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation. In all, there
are 761 schools in Vadodara – with municipal schools accounting for around 35% of the primary
schools.
Having been known for its education standards, the city should improve the standards and quality of
education. At the same time, it should follow a market driven approach, whereby, it could explore a
multi-university approach.

4.12 REDEVELOPMENT OF OLD CITY

The old town around the main street gates has mixed land use with commercial uses ating deep inside.
However, commercial activities are concentrated in the western part of the old town and confined
within two squarish developments, flanking the street connecting the Laheripura gate and Mandavi;
the eastern part of the town caters to middle and lower middle class residential needs. A need has been
felt to redevelop the old city and revive its beauty. The following section details the present status of
this endeavour as well as the reasons for redeveloping the old city.
Chaotic Urban
Scenario: The streets
of old Vadodara
present a chaotic
urban scenario; they
are swarming with
pedestrians, hawkers
and vehicles with
overhead electrical
and telephone wires
running parallel to and
across the streets, and
unplanned placement
of huge hoardings.
Together, they create a
dismal picture of a
one-time magnificent
town.
Uncontrolled skyline and building control lines: The uncontrolled sky line and the building control
lines place a burden on the available resources and infrastructure facilities like age old water supply,

4-42
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

which has to bear all the additional load. There are illegal and unauthorised additions in the built
space. As a result of an increase in population in the old city, there is a high growth in the number of
vehicles on roads resulting in congestion and air pollution.
Abuse of the soft landscape: The old city has a very sparing growth of the unplanned soft landscape
as compared to the other major street in that area. Trees are seen more on the street connecting
Laharipura gate and Mandavi, but the lack of sensitivity of the general public and indifference of the
authority have given rise to the gross abuse of this natural resource.
Poor condition of the hard landscape: Paving on the streets of the old town of Vadodara has been
sorely neglected. Though the street connecting Laharipura gate and Mandavi is paved with red
coloured chequered tiles, the tiles are in a bad condition; whereas on other streets it keeps varying. At
many places, tiles are either missing or different types of floor finishes are provided in patches by the
shopkeepers themselves which distort the street scenario.
Status of the street furniture: Aesthetics and appearance are not taken into consideration by the
authorities while providing essential street furniture like bus stands. At some spots, some concerned
citizens have provided facilities for sitting by the roadside or for drinking water; but these facilities
are also in a dilapidated condition and require replacements.
The light poles and the telephone poles with their overhead wiring are the greatest contributors to the
creation of eyesores on the streets of the old town.
Status of the street furniture: At places, on the streets of the old Vadodara, it is observed that the
authority has forgotten about the street furniture after its installation. The sign boards are hidden
behind vegetation growth and misused by the shopkeepers. The broken and dilapidated tree guards
need to be removed and replaced, whereas the telephone boxes are invaded by insensitively pasted
posters.
Lack of awareness about architectural heritage: Like the local authority and the general public, the
institutions have also shown lack of awareness of the precious architectural heritage of the town and
built buildings without any regard for the existing built forms.
Lack of civic amenities: A major problem of the streets of old Vadodara is the deficiency of primary
civic amenities like public toilets and solid waste containers.
Lack of law enforcement: Due to the soft attitude of the controlling authority and indifference
towards law enforcement agencies, vehicles are parked haphazardly, chaotic traffic lead to traffic jams
and pedestrians are greatly inconvenienced.
Encroachment by property owners: Encroachment on the footpaths of the old town of Vadodara
seems to be very common. There is hardly any place for the pedestrians to walk. Such encroachment
is seen more in places of religious worship.
Encroachment by hawkers: Hawkers occupying the footpaths or parts of the road compel
pedestrians to walk on the roads meant for the vehicles. The handcarts parked along the edges of the
road also reduce the road width provided for vehicular movement, and generate traffic jams.
Encroachment by vehicles: The tendency of the building owners and shopkeepers to park their
vehicles on footpaths in front of their property also create problems for the pedestrians on the streets
of old Vadodara.
Parking of vehicles on main roads: No parking space is available in the entire old town of Vadodara
for four-wheelers except for one private pay and park facility in the Nazarbag palace ground.

4-43
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

Table 25. State of Infrastructure

State of Infrastructure Details
Water availability Installed Capacity 240-270 MLD
10
Released / Daily 250 MLD
Source of Water Supply 10-50 sq.kms @20 kms
(with city limits)
50-100 sq.kms --
>100 kms --
Water Coverage Population covered by public water 75%
supply (%)
Per capita supply (lpcd) 180 lpcd (gross)
Supply duration in hours 0.75 hour
Water disposal Wastewater generated daily (MLD) 215MLD
Disposal (underground sewerage) 215MLD
capacity (MLD)
Present operating capacity in MLD 185 MLD
Households connected to 85%
Underground sewerage (%)
Solid waste Waste generation daily (Tones/day) 510 TPD
Collection daily (Tones/day) 440 – 470 TPD
Storm water drainage Annual rainfall (in cms) 900 mm
Length of storm water drains (kms) 150 kms
Roads and road Municipal roads in kms 711.15km
transport
State level roads in kms --
Public transport --
Buses (nos) 85 in 2005
Bus capacity/passengers --
Private registered vehicles 754137 in 2003
Street lighting Number 48,957
Area coverage 85%

10
Approximate 10 % variation in the installed capacity is due to variation in the discharge due to large seasonal variation in
the water levels in the river and in the tube wells. The difference in the installed capacity and supply is due to the restriction
in the yield from the source and non operational of some of the tube wells in the river bed.

4-44
Vadodara Municipal Corporation Infrastructure Assessment of Vadodara City

4.13 VADODARA URBAN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

The Vadodara Urban Agglomeration area consists of about 614 sq. km. around the Vadodara City.
This Urban Area is covered divided into a number of town planning (TP) schemes to reduce the load
on the city. The total area covered under these schemes is over 3000 hectare. However, infrastructure
facilities such as water supply, sewerage and storm water drains are not provided, mainly due to
financial constraints.
Big industries like IPCL, the Gujarat Refinery, IOCL and GACL are situated near Vadodara city. The
medium scale industries include chemicals, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, dyes and engineering
industries. Due to industrial development around the city , urbanisation has taken place. This
industrial development has also led to migrations from the adjoining rural areas to urban
agglomerations. The urban agglomerations around the periphery of Vadodara City are divided into
three zones.

4.13.1 Infrastructure Service Assessment

Water supply: There is an existing water supply facility in each urban cluster. Water either from open
wells or tube wells is being pumped into the elevated service reservoirs. This water is distributed
through the network of pipes and sand posts.
Zone I The urban area situated in Zone I gets water supply from deep tube wells.
The urban agglomeration situated in Zone II is based around major industries. The effluents
discharged by these industries have contaminated and polluted the local sources, which draw drinking
water from the upper aquifers.
The water supply source is mainly tube wells or open wells. The urban agglomerations situated in
Zone III has upper depth, rocky formation. Due to this, the quantity available is not sufficient to meet
with the increasing drinking water demand an assured and reliable source is most essential.
Sewerage facility: The urban area of Padra has a sewage facility, but the remaining areas lack this
facility.
Storm waster drains: The general ground slope for each zone is from North to South. The storm
water is drained through a natural drainage system into Vishwamitri river and Dhadar river for Zone I
and Zone II and into the Jambuva river for Zone III.
Roads: With the passage of time, the human population as well as the vehicular population rose like
in any other city in the country. Thus VUDA was required to provide infrastructure facilities like
roads, water supply, drainage, and streetlights in these areas. The number of vehicles registered in
Vadodara city is about to nine lakh and this number is expected to rise to 15 lakh by 2010. On an
average, the vehicular population is increasing at a rate of around 8% per year.

4-45