"Interlinking of Rivers is considered as a means to conserve water and contribute to social development"…

Question

"Interlinking of Rivers is considered as a means to conserve water and contribute to social development" discuss.

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

River interlinking conserves water by moving it from surplus to deficit basins, curbing flood and drought losses and recharging groundwater, while boosting irrigation, farm incomes and regional equity. Its costs show in the Ken-Betwa link, which will fell 23 lakh trees, while Pattiseema carries Godavari water to the Krishna.

**Introduction**

India’s water scarcity and uneven river basin distribution challenge agriculture and livelihoods. Interlinking rivers, like the ₹44,605 crore⟦2⟧⟦1⟧ Ken-Betwa project, aims to conserve water and promote social development by transferring water from surplus to deficit basins. This approach addresses regional water imbalances and supports inclusive growth in water-stressed areas.

**How Interlinking Conserves Water**

2. **Groundwater Recharge and Flood Mitigation**: Interlinked canals recharge aquifers and control floods, conserving water underground and preventing uncontrolled losses. This also reduces dependence on erratic rainfall, improving water security in arid zones.

**Contribution to Social Development**

1. **Agricultural and Livelihood Boost**: Irrigation of 10.62 lakh hectares under Ken-Betwa increases crop yields and rural employment, uplifting drought-prone regions. Enhanced irrigation supports multiple cropping and allied sectors, strengthening rural economies.

2. **Inclusive Rehabilitation**: The Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 requires fair compensation and participatory planning for Dalit and Adivasi communities affected by displacement. This ensures social justice and equitable access to water and livelihood opportunities.

**Benefits and Challenges**

2. **Environmental and Social Costs**: Ken-Betwa’s submergence of forests (23 lakh trees) and displacement (1,913 families) highlight sustainability and justice issues. These challenges require careful mitigation to balance development with conservation.

**Way Forward**

1. **Sustainable Practices and Governance**: Rigorous environmental assessments and basin authorities can ensure equitable water sharing and ecological balance. Leveraging technology like GIS and real-time monitoring will optimize water management and minimize adverse impacts.

**Conclusion**

Interlinking rivers like Ken-Betwa can conserve water and drive social development if ecological sustainability and inclusive rehabilitation are prioritized. Balancing developmental goals with environmental and social concerns is key to the success of such projects.

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