Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Inter-basin water transfer, or intrabasin linkages of rivers, refers to the transfer of water from water-rich basins to water-deficit basins. This concept gained prominence in India with the National Perspective Plan (NPP) formulated in 1980, envisioning a nationwide network of canals and reservoirs to redistribute water resources. India faces significant spatial and temporal water stress, with some regions experiencing chronic drought while others are prone to floods. Therefore, the idea of linking rivers to address water scarcity and enhance irrigation potential has been a long-standing policy objective. The question asks to evaluate whether these linkages are truly feasible considering economic, social, and ecological factors, and this answer will explore that with Indian examples.
Understanding Intrabasin Linkages
Intrabasin linkages involve diverting water from one river basin to another through a network of canals, reservoirs, and tunnels. These projects are categorized into Himalayan component, Peninsular component, and intra-State links. The primary objective is to alleviate water scarcity, enhance irrigation, generate hydropower, and mitigate floods and droughts. However, the implementation of these projects is complex and fraught with challenges.
Economic Feasibility
Economically, intrabasin linkages can be beneficial in several ways:
- Increased Agricultural Production: Transferring water to water-stressed regions can significantly boost agricultural output, contributing to food security and rural incomes.
- Hydropower Generation: Reservoirs created as part of the linkage projects can be utilized for hydropower generation, providing clean energy.
- Industrial Development: Reliable water supply can attract industries to water-scarce regions, fostering economic growth.
- Employment Generation: Construction and maintenance of these projects create employment opportunities.
However, the economic feasibility is often debated due to the high capital costs involved. The Ken-Betwa link project, for instance, is estimated to cost over ₹18,000 crore (as of 2023, based on knowledge cutoff). Cost-benefit analyses need to account for environmental costs and potential displacement of communities.
Social Feasibility
Socially, intrabasin linkages can have both positive and negative impacts:
- Improved Livelihoods: Access to water can improve the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities in water-deficit areas.
- Reduced Regional Disparities: Water transfer can help reduce regional disparities in water availability and economic development.
- Potential Displacement: Construction of reservoirs and canals can lead to the displacement of communities, requiring resettlement and rehabilitation.
- Inter-State Disputes: Sharing of water resources can lead to disputes between states, particularly when the project affects downstream states.
The social acceptability of these projects depends on ensuring fair compensation and rehabilitation for displaced communities and addressing the concerns of all stakeholders through transparent consultations.
Ecological Feasibility
Ecologically, intrabasin linkages raise significant concerns:
- Impact on River Ecosystems: Diversion of water can alter the flow regime of rivers, affecting aquatic ecosystems, fish populations, and biodiversity.
- Deforestation: Construction of reservoirs and canals often requires deforestation, leading to habitat loss and carbon emissions.
- Water Quality Degradation: Changes in water flow can lead to increased salinity and pollution in downstream areas.
- Impact on Wetlands: Water diversion can affect wetlands, which are important habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife.
The ecological feasibility requires careful environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and the implementation of mitigation measures to minimize the negative impacts. For example, the Ken-Betwa project has faced criticism from environmentalists due to its potential impact on the Panna Tiger Reserve.
Examples from India
| Project | Basins Linked | Status | Key Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ken-Betwa | Ken & Betwa | Under Implementation (as of 2023) | Environmental concerns (Panna Tiger Reserve), Displacement of communities |
| Parbati-Kalisindh | Parbati & Kalisindh | Planning Stage | Forest clearance, Inter-state issues (Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh) |
| Mahanadi-Godavari | Mahanadi & Godavari | Planning Stage | Environmental impact on the delta region, Displacement |
The Narmada Valley Project, while not strictly an intrabasin link, provides a cautionary tale. Its implementation faced significant opposition due to displacement and environmental concerns, highlighting the importance of addressing social and ecological impacts.
Conclusion
Intrabasin linkages of rivers hold the potential to address India’s water challenges, but their feasibility is contingent upon careful planning, robust environmental assessments, and equitable social considerations. While economically promising, the high costs and potential for displacement require thorough cost-benefit analyses. Ecological impacts must be minimized through mitigation measures and sustainable water management practices. A holistic and integrated approach, prioritizing stakeholder consultations and environmental sustainability, is crucial for ensuring the long-term success of these projects. Moving forward, a focus on demand-side management and water conservation measures alongside supply augmentation through linkages is essential.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.