Oct 29 - Nov 01, 2025

+91-9958189771

rhar@iitbhu.ac.in

List of Topics in RHAR 2025

For the purpose of discussion in RHAR 2025, by 'small rivers' we mean the tributaries which merges with a larger river downstream.

Two broad domains of discussion include:

D1. Application of Advanced Tools and Technologies for restoration of small rivers

Remote Sensing & GIS:
  • River mapping, change detection, and land use analysis.
  • Monitoring of riparian zones and sedimentation trends.
Hydrological and Hydraulic Modeling:
  • Simulation of natural flow regimes and flood dynamics.
  • Tools like HEC-RAS and SWAT to assess restoration scenarios.
Environmental Monitoring via IoT and Sensors:
  • Real-time tracking of water quality parameters.
  • Early warning systems for pollution or habitat degradation.
Biodiversity Monitoring Using eDNA:
  • Non-invasive tracking of aquatic species.
  • Assessment of ecological health and recovery post-restoration.
3D Modeling and UAV-based Surveys:
  • High-resolution terrain mapping and morphological analysis.
  • Visualization of structural interventions (e.g., riffles, meanders).
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:
  • Predictive modeling for erosion, pollution load, and flow patterns.
  • Decision-making support for site prioritization and intervention design.
Decision Support Systems (DSS):
  • Integration of multidisciplinary data for planning and stakeholder engagement.
  • Scenario analysis for sustainable management strategies.

D2. Documentation of Policy and Programs supportive of restoration of small rivers

Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) for Small Rivers

Planning catchment-wide actions with community-based and ecosystem-centered approaches.

National Missions and Flagship Programs

Finding opportunities in national initiatives like Jal Shakti Abhiyan, MGNREGS, Atal Bhujal Yojana, Catch the Rain, PMKSY, and Namami Gange for small rivers restoration.

Roles of Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies

For planning, executing, and monitoring of restoration work with accountability for small rivers and water bodies.

Financing Models for Small River Restoration

Exploring models for pooling financial resources from government schemes, CSR, PPPs, and climate finance for sustainable river rejuvenation.

Institutional Mechanisms for Multi-sectoral Coordination

Establishing formal structures for inter-departmental and inter-institutional collaboration across sectors impacting river ecosystems.

Policy Innovations and Regulatory Frameworks

Developing enabling laws, norms, and guidelines to support river-friendly land use, ecological flows, and integrated water governance.

Community Participation and Social Accountability

Engaging communities through participatory processes, traditional knowledge, citizen science, and local monitoring systems.

Case Studies Demonstrating Convergence in Action

Real-world success stories of coordinated efforts in river rejuvenation, showcasing collaborative efforts.