Ecological Guidelines and Recommendations for Mula-Mutha Riverfront Development

This paper is a case of urban river Mutha for ecological management.Over the past few decades, condition of river Mutha has deteriorated considerably. The present situation shows less of fresh water flow and lot of sewage water addition,waste dumping and foul smelling water flow. The fresh water contribution by base flow to the main stream is very negligible. The only source of fresh water is sporadic water release from Khadakwasala dam. It is irregular and in small proportion to support ecosystem functioning of the river Mutha.There is a of public debate regarding improvement in the river's condition and to correct its root cause. The disruption in the river's ecosystem is basically by human interventions. The study appeals for interdisciplinary approach with a view of environmental governance and management to solve river related problems. The focus of this study is to assess environmental impact when the river related projects being planned by Municipal authorities. The study included survey of physical changes by human interventions, in the river Mutha channel ,banks and modification of habitats hampering aquatic as well as land biodiversity. The study indicated crucial biodiversity indicators for the health of the river ecosystem. By giving grades based on both the physical conditions and biodiversity of various stretches of the river plan to improve conditions is suggested.The study created guidelines for restoration and management of Mutha river ecosystem, which may be useful for rivers especially in the urban area. This paper is based on the research project .Ecological Guidelines and Recommendations for Mula-Mutha Riverfront Development. conducted by Ecological Society.