RIVER LINKING

PRERNA FOR IAS

RIVER LINKING

1. River Linking in India

River Linking is a proposed water resource management programme that aims to transfer water from surplus river basins to water-deficient regions through canals, reservoirs, and diversion structures. The objective is to reduce regional water imbalance, improve irrigation, provide drinking water, generate hydropower, and control floods and droughts. The programme is coordinated by the National Water Development Agency (NWDA) under the National Perspective Plan. It consists of Himalayan and Peninsular river links. Although river linking promises economic and agricultural benefits, it also raises concerns regarding environmental impacts, displacement of people, interstate water disputes, and ecological sustainability, requiring careful planning and implementation.

2. Objectives of River Linking

The primary objective of the River Linking Project is to transfer water from surplus river basins to water-deficit regions. It aims to improve irrigation, ensure reliable drinking water supply, generate hydroelectric power, and reduce the impact of floods and droughts. The project also seeks to enhance agricultural productivity, increase food security, and promote balanced regional development by supplying water to drought-prone areas. Better water management can support industries, improve livelihoods, and strengthen the rural economy. Overall, river linking intends to maximize the efficient use of India's available water resources while reducing regional disparities in water availability.

3. Himalayan Rivers Component

The Himalayan Rivers Component focuses on inter-basin transfer of water among major northern rivers such as the Ganga, Brahmaputra, Yamuna, Kosi, Gandak, and Ghaghara. The objective is to manage excess monsoon water, reduce floods in eastern India, and transfer surplus water to water-scarce regions. The plan involves constructing dams, reservoirs, and long canal systems. Since many Himalayan rivers originate in neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and China, international cooperation is essential. While the component offers opportunities for irrigation, flood control, and hydropower generation, it also faces technical, environmental, financial, and diplomatic challenges.

4. Peninsular Rivers Component