Critical research highlighting the severe ecological decline of Vadodara's water bodies and the precarious state of its brick kiln labourers dominated discussions on the opening day of the International Conference on Resilience (ICR 2026). The event commenced at Navrachana University (NU) on Friday, bringing together experts to address pressing urban and social challenges.
Alarming Pollution Levels in Lakes and River
A comprehensive environmental study presented at the conference delivered a grim assessment of Vadodara's aquatic ecosystems. The research, which examined 24 lakes and 10 sites along the Vishwamitri river, found critically low levels of dissolved oxygen and alarmingly high pH levels. The primary culprits identified were the direct discharge of untreated sewage, indiscriminate dumping of solid waste, and unchecked industrial effluents.
This toxic mix has led to widespread eutrophication, severely damaging water quality and aquatic life. The findings have prompted urgent calls from researchers and attendees for immediate remediation efforts and the enforcement of stricter environmental regulations to halt further degradation.
Exploitative Conditions for Brick Kiln Workers
Parallel to the environmental crisis, a stark field study brought to light the vulnerable conditions of workers in brick kilns around Vadodara. The research flagged serious issues including consistent wage violations and deplorable living conditions for the labourers. It also noted a concerning lack of awareness among workers regarding their legal rights and entitlements.
A particularly distressing finding was the disruption to children's education due to the migratory nature of the work. The study exposed significant gaps in the implementation of existing welfare schemes and labour laws, underscoring a systemic failure to protect this marginalised workforce.
Call for Pedestrian-Friendly Urban Development
Urban mobility challenges in the city's expanding peri-urban areas also came under scrutiny. A dedicated study assessed accessibility, traffic flow, and connectivity in zones governed by the Vadodara Urban Development Authority (VUDA). The analysis pointed to a severe lack of basic, safe infrastructure for pedestrians.
To build more resilient and liveable communities, the study strongly recommended the development of improved public transport systems and the creation of fundamental pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, such as proper footpaths and safe crossings.
KHOJ Exhibition Showcases Student Research
These impactful studies were part of the KHOJ exhibition held alongside the conference. Dr Prakruti Shah, head of the KHOJ Winter School, stated that the exhibition showcased 31 interdisciplinary research projects involving a massive 741 students and 65 faculty members, with more than 185 panels and models on display. The exhibition was formally inaugurated by Vadodara's municipal commissioner, Arun Mahesh Babu.
The two-day international conference has assembled academicians, researchers, practitioners, and policymakers from across India and abroad. The inaugural session featured a keynote address by Dr Brian B Rudkin of the One Sustainable Health for All Foundation, France. Dr Nicolas Gascoin from the French Embassy in New Delhi emphasised the crucial role of cross-border academic collaboration in solving complex problems.
In her address to the gathering, NU chairperson Tejal Amin reframed the concept of resilience, advocating that it be seen not just as a reaction to crises but as a continuous process of institutional and community adaptation to ongoing challenges.
