Abstract

Rivers have always been at the heart of human life, shaping cultures, livelihoods, and ecosystems. Yet in recent decades, unchecked urbanization, industrial growth, and unsustainable land use have pushed many Indian rivers into decline. Central Gujarat reflects this trend, where once-thriving rivers now struggle with pollution, encroachment, biodiversity loss, and disrupted natural flows. In response, river restoration efforts are being undertaken, combining technical measures such as desilting, wastewater treatment, and ecological rehabilitation with community-driven initiatives. This study explores how local communities influence the success and sustainability of such restoration projects. It argues that communities are not just end-users of river systems but active custodians whose knowledge, practices, and stewardship directly shape ecological outcomes. In Central Gujarat, community engagement has taken diverse forms: citizen-led awareness campaigns, grassroots monitoring of pollution, revival of traditional water practices, and participation in policy dialogues. Through case studies of selected river rejuvenation projects, the research examines how the degree of community involvement corresponds with tangible improvements in water quality, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience. The methodology combines qualitative insights from interviews, focus group discussions, and ethnographic observations with quantitative analysis of ecological indicators. Findings suggest that projects anchored in strong community participation achieve more lasting success than those dominated by top-down technical interventions. Beyond ecological gains, such initiatives also strengthen local governance, revive cultural traditions, and foster a shared sense of responsibility for natural resources. The study highlights three key insights: community participation is foundational rather than optional; sustainable outcomes emerge when scientific expertise works in tandem with local knowledge; and long-term success depends on embedding participation within formal governance structures. By situating the Central Gujarat experience in broader debates on sustainability and environmental justice, the research emphasizes that river restoration is best understood not as a one-time project but as an ongoing socio-ecological process driven by collective stewardship.