Field Experiences of an Interdisciplinary Research in Planning: Stakeholders’ Perspectives on a Small River in Gujarat

Abstract

Peoples’ consciousness about their environment is an important force that shapes their behaviors and actions. Different social groups in the society believe in particular value systems. This provides a frame of reference in my research to understand peoples’ behaviors in regard to particular environmental conflicts. This chapter is based on my experiences of field visits and surveys conducted to assess peoples’ perceptions about a small river. The main aim of research is to understand key stakeholders’ perspectives on values, policies, and impacts those affects a small river. Rise of civilization and geography of mankind is defined by rivers. Social and economic needs, infrastructure, and urban development-related demands have over the years negatively affected natural structures and functions of rivers. These cause stress to human and other biotic communities. Peoples’ perceptions and policy areas influence each other in both positive and negative ways. In this light, the question of comprehending peoples’ perceptions seems to be missing from urban and regional planning education and decisions in various settings, including small rivers in India. Emerging challenges include making proper policies and creating effective policy implementation plans for securing a future of small rivers. In this context, a critical examination from stakeholders’ perspective was conducted for river Vishwamitri, which is a small seasonal river flowing north east to south west between the river Mahi and Narmada, and it originates from Pavagarh Hills in Gujarat. This river flows through the city of Vadodara in Gujarat, India.