Table of Contents
Introduction
The article talks about the Ken-Betwa River Link Project, which aims to solve water shortages in the Bundelkhand region by transferring water from the Ken River to the drought-hit Betwa River.
While the project promises to help with water issues, it has raised concerns about its high cost, environmental damage, and risks to ecosystems, especially in the Panna Tiger Reserve. It also touches on the broader challenges of river interlinking and emphasizes the need for smarter, more sustainable water management solutions in India.
Article Explanation
Introduction to the Ken-Betwa River Link Project
On December 25, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi started the Ken-Betwa River Link Project. This project is meant to solve the water shortage problem in Bundelkhand, a region that includes parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
It involves taking water from the Ken River, which has more water, and sending it to the Betwa River, which flows through dry areas. The plan also includes building a dam in the Panna Tiger Reserve, which has raised concerns about its possible harm to the forest and wildlife there.
Why is the Project Controversial?
The project is expensive, costing around ₹45,000 crore, and many experts have objected to it. They argue that it violates environmental laws and could lead to significant damage to nature.
Critics say that instead of being a real solution to water scarcity, this project might create more problems in the long run. It reflects a trend of using large, technology-heavy projects to fix water issues without fully considering their impacts on the environment.
What is River Interlinking?
The idea of connecting rivers isn’t new. It was first suggested over 130 years ago and has been developed further by engineers over time. The current plan involves linking rivers that have extra water to those that need more.
This is meant to reduce floods, provide water during droughts, and improve rural areas. The government has identified 30 potential river links, with some in the north (Himalayan rivers) and others in the south (Peninsular rivers). While this sounds helpful, these projects are very costly and come with risks to nature and local communities
Environmental and Social Impacts
Critics believe that projects like this could harm the environment in irreversible ways. Rivers are part of delicate ecosystems that support plants, animals, and people. When rivers are diverted, it disrupts this balance.
For example, floods, often seen as a problem, actually help make soil fertile and recharge groundwater. Similarly, deltas (land where rivers meet the sea) rely on river water to stay healthy. If the water is diverted, these areas can dry up or become salty, making them unfit for farming and wildlife.
Examples like the Indus Delta in Pakistan and parts of the Narmada River in India show how harmful such changes can be. Globally, projects like the Kissimmee River in Florida and the Aral Sea in Central Asia have also caused massive environmental damage, leading to costly restoration efforts or permanent destruction.
How Climate Change Makes It Worse
Climate change adds to the risks. It affects rainfall and river flows, making it harder to predict how much water will be available. This could make river-linking projects less effective or even harmful. Instead of helping, such projects might worsen water problems by disturbing natural systems further. This also goes against India’s promises to tackle climate change and protect its natural resources.
What’s Causing India’s Water Problems?
India’s water crisis isn’t just about not having enough water. It’s caused by poor management, overuse, and pollution. Groundwater is being overused, farming methods waste a lot of water, and untreated wastewater pollutes rivers. The lack of a strong and comprehensive water policy makes things worse.
To fix this, India needs to manage water better. This includes involving local communities in protecting water sources, using modern irrigation techniques like drip irrigation (which uses less water), and treating wastewater so it can be reused. Israel’s success in water management, where they save a lot of water through efficient irrigation, is an example India could learn from.
India’s Sacred Yet Threatened Rivers
Rivers are considered sacred in India and hold cultural and spiritual importance. But despite this, they are under serious threat from pollution, overuse, and big projects like river linking. Dams, untreated sewage, and industrial waste are damaging their natural flow and ecosystems. While the government talks about protecting rivers, its actions often harm them instead, focusing more on short-term gains than long-term sustainability.
Conclusion: Finding a Better Solution
The Ken-Betwa River Link Project is an example of how big development projects can conflict with protecting nature. While it aims to solve water shortages, it could cause serious harm to the environment, wildlife, and local communities.
Instead of relying on large, risky projects like this, India should focus on improving how it manages water. This means protecting natural water systems, encouraging efficient water use, and involving people in the process. By doing so, India can solve its water problems without destroying its rivers or risking the future of its environment.
.
.
.
join our telegram channel for regular updates of The Hindu Epaper Editorial Explanation-https://t.me/Thehindueditorialexplanation
The Hindu Epaper Editorial Explanation given by Hello Student is only a supplementary reading to the original article to make things easier for the students.
In conclusion, preparing for exams in India can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies and resources, success is within reach. Remember, consistent study habits, effective time management, and a positive mindset are key to overcoming any academic challenge. Utilize the tips and techniques shared in this post to enhance your preparation and boost your confidence. Stay focused, stay motivated, and don’t forget to take care of your well-being. With dedication and perseverance, you can achieve your academic goals and pave the way for a bright future. Good luck!
The Editorial Page of The Hindu is an essential reading for all the students aspiring for UPSC, SSC, PCS, Judiciary etc or any other competitive government exams.
This may also be useful for exams like CUET UG and CUET PG, GATE, GMAT, GRE AND CAT
To read this article in Hindi –https://bhaarat.hellostudent.co.in/