Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ken-Betwa River Linking Project, India’s first interlinking of rivers under the National Perspective Plan.The project aims to provide irrigation to districts in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, benefiting lakhs of farming families. It will also ensure drinking water facilities for the region and contribute over 100 MW of green energy through hydropower.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the initiative will open new avenues of prosperity in the Bundelkhand region, creating employment opportunities and boosting the rural economy. The project will benefit 10 districts in Madhya Pradesh, including Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, and Panna, and key districts in Uttar Pradesh such as Banda, Mahoba, and Jhansi.He highlighted his government’s commitment to accelerating river-linking projects nationwide, bringing long-term economic and environmental benefits.
On December 25, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the Ken-Betwa River Linking National Project in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. This initiative marks India’s first interlinking of rivers under the National Perspective Plan, aiming to address water scarcity and boost agricultural productivity in the Bundelkhand region.
Project Overview
The Ken-Betwa Link Project is designed to transfer surplus water from the Ken River in Madhya Pradesh to the Betwa River, facilitating irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydropower generation. The project encompasses the construction of the Daudhan Dam and a canal system.,
extending over hundreds of kilometers. With an estimated cost of ₹44,605 crore, the initiative is poised to provide irrigation to approximately 11 lakh hectares of land, supply drinking water to nearly 65 lakh people across 10 districts in Madhya Pradesh and 21 lakh people in Uttar Pradesh, and generate 103 MW of hydropower.
Regional Impact
The Bundelkhand region, spanning parts of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, has historically faced challenges related to water scarcity, adversely affecting agriculture and livelihoods.
The Ken-Betwa Link Project aims to alleviate these issues by ensuring a reliable water supply, thereby enhancing agricultural productivity and providing a significant boost to the local economy. Districts set to benefit include Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, Niwari, Panna, Damoh, and Sagar in Madhya Pradesh, as well as Banda, Mahoba, Lalitpur, and Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh.
Environmental Considerations
While the project promises substantial economic and social benefits, it has also raised environmental concerns. Critics point out that the construction of the Daudhan Dam may lead to the submergence of a portion of the Panna Tiger Reserve, potentially impacting its rich biodiversity. Environmentalists and conservationists advocate for a balanced approach that harmonizes developmental objectives with ecological preservation.
Government’s Vision
During the foundation stone laying ceremony, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the transformative potential of the Ken-Betwa Link Project for the Bundelkhand region. He highlighted that the initiative would open new avenues of prosperity and happiness, addressing long-standing water-related challenges and contributing to the overall development of the area. The Prime Minister also underscored the project’s alignment with the government’s broader vision of ensuring water security and promoting sustainable development across the nation.
The Ken-Betwa River Linking National Project represents a landmark effort in India’s pursuit of interlinking rivers to optimize water resources. By aiming to resolve water scarcity issues and stimulate economic growth in the Bundelkhand region, the project holds the promise of transforming the socio-economic landscape. As the initiative progresses, it will be imperative to address environmental concerns through thoughtful planning and implementation, ensuring that development and conservation objectives are achieved in tandem.
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