HPAS/Allied Mains 2022 Answer Writing Challenge Day 03: Model Answer

Question: Discuss the feasibility of interlinking of rivers of India and its possible contribution to resolution of water crisis.          8 Marks

Answer: 

The National River Linking Project (NRLP) formally known as the National Perspective Plan, envisages the transfer of water from water surplus basins where there is flooding to water-deficit basins where there is drought and scarcity, through inter-basin water transfer projects. The mission has been launched by Ministry of Jal shakti to ensure greater equity in the distribution of water. The project has two components –

1. Himalayan Component – Himalayan Component has 14 projects in the pipeline.
2. Peninsular Component – linking of 16 rivers in southern India

ADVANTAGES OF THIS PROJECT

1. Water crisis: The project envisages resolving the water shortage issues by diverting excess water from plains to deficit regions.
2. Hydropower generation: The building of dams and reservoirs can generate about 34000 MW of electricity from this project.
3. Inland waterways: In dry weather, surplus water stored in reservoirs can be released to rivers to maintain minimum water flow in rivers. The transport and connectivity through inland waterways will benefit commercially.
4. Increase in the Irrigation Area in Agriculture by 35 mha and to reduce the dependency on Monsoonal rainfall.

CHALLENGES ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROJECT –

1. Economic feasibility – The project implementation cost is about 5.6 lakh crores along with the construction of dams, reservoirs, and canals- which requires huge engineering capability and manpower.
2. Social viability – Many residential areas will be involved leading to the displacement of people. The rehabilitation and compensation will be an additional burden.
3. Environmental impact: The project will alter many ecosystems as the wildlife and nature will be displaced and destroyed. The ecosystem of one river is different from the other in terms of physical and chemical parameters- the mixing of them may harm aquatic life.
4. Inter-state water disputes: There are many states involved in river water sharing disputes and are opposing the project.
5. Floods: In India, the monsoons can be unpredictable, and many dams have failed during heavy rainfalls causing disasters. Hence there are still apprehensions associated with the project.

Conclusion – Recent linking of Ken-Betwa has led to submergence of a part of Panna Tiger reserve and drawn criticism from the environmental and social pressure groups as well. The project has two sides, with the time the negative and positive outcome will be observed with more clarity as if for now its seems to solve many projects related to water crisis in the drought prone areas of India.