Introduction

• The Ken-Betwa river interlinking project, a significant initiative of the Madhya Pradesh government and part of the Centre’s ambitious plan, has come under scrutiny.

Overview of the Project and Violations

• Project Details: The Lower Orr dam, a part of the Ken-Betwa river interlinking project’s second phase, began construction in 2019.
• Violation of Clearance Laws: In 2022, an expert appraisal committee (EAC) reported that the project commenced without formal clearance from the Environment Ministry.
• Incomplete Construction: As of the last report, about 82% of the dam and 33.5% of the canal network were completed without necessary clearances.
• EAC’s Recent Recommendations: In December 2023, the EAC called for a fresh evaluation and more data on potential damage caused by the construction.

What is the Ken Betwa Link Project?

• First of its Kind: This project is the inaugural venture under the National Perspective Plan for interlinking Indian rivers.
• River Linking: It involves transferring water from the Ken River to the Betwa River, both tributaries of the Yamuna.

Phases of the Project

• Phase-I Components: This includes the Daudhan dam complex, Low Level Tunnel, High Level Tunnel, Ken-Betwa link canal, and Power houses.
• Phase-II Components: The second phase will see the construction of the Lower Orr dam, Bina complex project, and Kotha barrage.

Utility of the Project

• Irrigation Benefits: The project aims to irrigate 10.62 lakh hectares annually.
• Drinking Water Supply: It is expected to provide drinking water to 62 lakh people.
• Power Generation: The project will generate 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar power.
• Regional Development: It promises to bring socio-economic prosperity to the Bundelkhand region through increased agricultural activities and employment.
• Combating Rural Distress: The project is also seen as a solution to distress migration from this region.

Ecological Issues with the Project

• Scientific Basis: Concerns have been raised about the ‘surplus and deficit’ model and the availability of water in the Ken River.
• Water Sharing Disputes: UP and MP have had disagreements over water sharing, especially during non-monsoonal months.
• Environmental Impact: The project involves creating a reservoir dam in the Panna National Park and Tiger Reserve, impacting the downstream Ken Gharial Sanctuary.
• Wildlife Act Compliance: Approval by the National Board for Wildlife, as required under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, has not been confirmed.

Issues with the Projects

• Displacement: The project will lead to significant displacement of people.
• Topographical Changes: The flat topography of the Ganga basin poses challenges for dam construction.
• Inundation and Seismic Hazards: Large-scale water transfer risks inundating forests and creating seismic hazards in the Himalayan region.
• Financial and Political Challenges: The project requires substantial financial investment and political support.
• Land Acquisition and Ecological Feasibility: Consensus building for land acquisition and ecological concerns are major hurdles.

Criticisms of Such Projects

• Questionable Science: Critics argue that these projects are based on outdated water management understanding.
• Contravention with Nature: They are seen as going against natural processes, posing more threats than opportunities.

Way Forward

• Expert Scrutiny: Thorough and independent expert scrutiny during the approval stage is crucial.
• Independent Hydrological Study: A comprehensive study of these rivers is necessary to assess the feasibility and impact.

Conclusion

• Developmental projects like the Ken-Betwa Link should not compromise fragile ecosystems or important wildlife habitats.
• The potential destructive impact on the flow of water and sanctuary ecosystems, along with legal compliance, needs clear assessment and consideration.
• Sound environmental governance and due diligence are essential in balancing developmental needs with ecological preservation.

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