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Indian rivers can be connected via a system of reservoirs and canals. River interlinking is done because while certain areas of the nation have annual floods, many others suffer from drought. The main motive behind the river interlinking project is to enhance irrigation and groundwater recharge, as well as lessen recurring floods and water scarcity in some regions. Recently, the Ministry of Jal Shakti said that the Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) is the "flagship" project of the national government and "crucial for the water security and socio-economic development of the Bundelkhand region." The KBLP, which would cost a total of Rs 44,605 crore, was authorized by the Union Cabinet in December 2021. This project is delayed due to political and environmental concerns.
The significance of the river interlinking project is to enhance irrigation and groundwater recharge, as well as lessen recurring floods and water scarcity in some regions.
It is the fifth tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh and the 20th in India. This reserve is found in the Vindhyan ranges and is spread over Panna and Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh.
Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) is to move excess water from the Madhya Pradesh (MP) Ken River to the Uttar Pradesh (UP) Betwa to irrigate the drought-prone Bundelkhand area.These areas mostly exist in the districts of Jhansi, Banda, Lalitpur, and Mahoba in Uttar Pradesh, and Tikamgarh, Panna, and Chhatarpur in Madhya Pradesh.
The river interlinking projects have a lofty goal to tackle water management issues across the country. The Ken Betwa River-Interlinking project is the first of 30 from the National River Interlinking Plan by the National Water Development Agency. It is not without its challenges. While the project will contribute to irrigation and hydropower, it will also displace a large number of people and significantly impact the rich biodiversity of the region.
The concerns raised by the Supreme Court appointed Central Empowered Committee need to be addressed carefully and expeditiously. Fair compensation under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 should be given to the displaced. The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act (CAMPA, 2016) should be adhered to and afforestation for the diverted portions must be undertaken. Also, cost-effective environmentally friendly alternative measures to restore historical lakes and ponds along with traditional methods should be used to sustainably conserve water in the Bundelkhand region.
Lessons must be learnt from the implementation of the first River-Interlinking project for all others. Proper process, environmental clearance and adherence to rule of law is must to ensure justice and development for all. This will also enable efficient use of resources and on-time completion of project.
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