₹45,000-cr. Ken-Betwa link project launched
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 1)
| Topic: GS1 – Geography, GS3 – Indian Economy – Infrastructure |
| Context |
| ● The Ken-Betwa river-linking project aims to address water scarcity in Bundelkhand by linking two rivers, improving irrigation, drinking water supply, and energy generation.
● The project involves building canals, dams, hydropower, and solar energy components. ● It is part of India’s broader water management strategy. |
Ken-Betwa River-Linking Project Overview
- Objective:
- The Ken-Betwa river-linking project aims to resolve the long-standing water scarcity issues in the drought-prone Bundelkhand region, spanning parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
- The project focuses on linking the Ken and Betwa rivers to ensure a stable and reliable water supply to the region.
Key Components of the Project
- Canal Construction: The primary feature of the project involves constructing a canal to transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa River. This will ensure water availability for both irrigation and drinking needs in the region.
- Daudhan Dam: The project includes the construction of the Daudhan Dam on the Ken River. The dam will store water, regulate its flow, and supply water for irrigation purposes.
- Hydropower Generation: The project aims to generate over 100 MW of hydropower, which will help meet the region’s electricity demands and contribute to sustainable energy production.
- Solar Power Generation: In addition to hydropower, the project will also generate 27 MW of solar power, promoting clean energy and further supporting the region’s energy needs.
Benefits of the Project
- Water Supply: The project will significantly improve the drinking water supply to at least 10 districts in Madhya Pradesh and several districts in Uttar Pradesh. It will provide a reliable water source for domestic consumption.
- Irrigation: The canal will provide irrigation facilities to approximately 11 lakh hectares of agricultural land. This will enhance agricultural productivity and improve livelihoods for farmers in the region.
- Economic Development: By addressing water and energy needs, the project is expected to stimulate economic growth in the Bundelkhand region, boosting agriculture, energy production, and local infrastructure.
Environmental and Ecological Considerations
- Wildlife and Habitat Protection: The project passes through ecologically sensitive areas such as the Panna Tiger Reserve. Special measures will be implemented to mitigate any potential negative impact on local wildlife and natural habitats.
- Sustainability: The combination of hydropower generation and solar power aligns with the project’s focus on sustainability, reducing the environmental footprint while addressing the water and energy needs of the region.
Strategic Importance
- River-Linking Initiative: This project is a crucial part of India’s larger river-linking strategy, aimed at resolving inter-state water disputes and ensuring long-term water security for drought-prone regions.
- Regional Transformation: By improving water availability, irrigation, and energy access, the project is expected to bring about significant socio-economic development in the Bundelkhand region, fostering overall regional growth.
| Practice Question: Examine the significance of the Ken-Betwa river-linking project for sustainable water management and regional development. Discuss its potential environmental and socio-economic impacts. (150 Words /10 marks) |
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