Interlinking of Rivers

Context

The Ministry of Jal Shakti released the latest status report on the National Perspective Plan (NPP) for Inter-Linking of Rivers (ILR), highlighting ongoing developments such as the Ken-Betwa Link Project and associated flood management initiatives.

National Perspective Plan (NPP):

The NPP was formulated by the Government of India to address regional water imbalances by transferring water from surplus river basins to deficit

Executing Agency:

The National Water Development Agency (NWDA) is entrusted with the formulation of link proposals, feasibility studies, and detailed project reports.

Structure of NPP:

Total ILR projects identified: 30
Divided into:
- Himalayan Component – 14 projects
- Peninsular Component – 16 projects

Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP):

First ILR project under implementation
Approved in December 2021
Estimated cost: ?44,605 crore (at 2020–21 price level)
Central support: ?39,317 crore
Special Purpose Vehicle: Ken Betwa Link Project Authority (KBLPA)
Status: Work on the Daudhan Dam, a major component, has been awarded

Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project

The project has been approved under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana – Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (PMKSY-AIBP), which aims to expedite completion of long-pending irrigation projects.
Implementing Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti.
Geographical Coverage: It covers four flood-prone districts in Bihar: Araria, Purnea, Kishanganj, and Katihar.

About Project

Involves remodelling the Eastern Kosi Main Canal (EKMC) and to connect with the Mechi River.
Aims to ensure inter-basin water transfer within Bihar.
Timeline: Targeted for completion by March 2029.

Benefits:

Irrigation coverage for 2.15 lakh hectares.
Significant contribution to flood mitigation, particularly in a flood-prone region.
Enhances agricultural productivity and rural livelihood resilience in North Bihar.