Abstract

The Indo-Gangetic plain exhibits a number of extinct rivers in the form of inter-connected channels, ox-bow lakes, meander scars, riverine wetlands, etc. In order to develop a mode for the revival of these extinct rivers, the interfluvial zone of the Ganga and Sai Rivers has been taken as the case study area. In the interfluve of the Ganga and Sai Rivers, the Bakulahi River is an extinct river. The digital elevation map SRTM DEM of the study area was acquired from the website, and further, the elevation along the delineated traces of channels of the Bakulahi River in the DEM map was lowered by 3 meters in the Arc GIS software, and a modified DEM map was prepared. Applying the SWAT on modified DEM, a model of the Bakulahi River basin has been prepared, which reveals that by excavating along the traces of the Bakulahi River by 3 meters, the Bakulahi River can be revived. After the revival, it was found that the catchment area, length, discharge, and the number of sub-basins have increased. Out of 125 sub-basins, 14 are notable for high groundwater recharge, making them crucial for ecosystem conservation and strictly off-limits for construction. This model highlights that enhancing longitudinal connectivity not only increases the river's flow but also reconstructs associated wetlands and supports biodiversity. It unites stakeholders to co-create sustainable strategies for the Bakulahi River, setting a precedent for similar extinct river systems.