However well-intentioned it might be, the Supreme Court direction to the Centre to constitute a special committee to pursue the outdated plan of linking India's rivers is based on a misplaced premise. Achieving huge inter-basin transfer of waters in the Himalayan and peninsular river systems is a complex goal for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the displacement of a large number of people. Even if funds were not a constraint and the inter-linking idea were to be declared technically sound, the national record on resettlement of people displaced by mega dam projects does not inspire confidence. What is equally important is that the 2008 National Council on Applied Economic Research report on the “Economic Impact of Interlinking of Rivers Programme”, which seems to have guided some of the discussions, explicitly did not consider the plan's environmental aspects or cost-benefit calculus. Moving waters across river basins cannot be achieved without energy-intensive heavy lifts and destructive modification of ecologically important landscapes. Also, in the Himalaya plan component, there is the additional challenge of taking along neighbouring countries. It is no surprise then that the National Commission on Integrated Water Resources Development Plan, which went into the proposals a decade ago, favoured development of water resources within river basins over massive inter-basin transfers.
Negative externalities are a concomitant of any big river link project, and the proposals identified by NCAER involve 30 links. Sharing of river waters even under an agreed formula has not been easy, as the Cauvery issue has shown. What is more, the reaction of Andhra Pradesh and Kerala to the Supreme Court direction indicates that they remain unenthusiastic, because of concerns over proposals for the Polavaram and Pamba-Achankovil-Vaippar links. A decade ago, when water surpluses in the Mahanadi and Godavari were assessed by the NCIWRDP, Orissa and Andhra Pradesh disagreed. Given this trend, what reason is there to believe that States would be more willing to apportion waters now? As the Supreme Court has pointed out on various occasions, environmental impact assessment must be the cornerstone of any project. In this context, the Ministry of Environment and Forests found no cause to support the Ken-Betwa link and declined to clear it last year. The way forward to improve the prospects of water-deficit basins is to work on more efficient and less destructive options. These include devoting resources for rainwater harvesting programmes of scale, raising irrigation efficiency, curbing pollution and effecting local water transfers for agricultural and municipal use.
Keywords: Supreme Court, National Council on Applied Economic Research, economic impact, interlinking of rivers, NCIWRDP, peninsular river systems
I fully agree with this article. the government must refrain from a one link to all the rivers in India,they should leave it to the states if the states want to do it locally on their own where it is technically and economically feasible as long as it does not warrant moving entire villages.
In fact, by executing these projects we are not only ameliorating the nature’s fury but also reversing the increasing environmental damages caused by alternates adopted by us due to delays in execution of these projects.
1. Population control with specific focus on certain regions and religions
2. Dedicated Train Freight Corridors along all trunk routes
3. Nuclear Power Plants
4. Source Segregation of Municipal Solid Waste and recycle of all Organic matter back to the villages.
5. Fertilizer Projects
6. Coastal shipping from Haldia to Kandla via Sethu Canal.
Anyone who is opposed to any of these projects can only be an illiterate or anti social or antinational. Instead of blindly and routinely finding fault with the politicians, please support those politicians who support these projects. If need be, we have to come to street and articulate ourselves, since today policies are decided at street corners only !
Moreover, this Project will reduce the long distance migrations to some extent due to improved economic activity in the rural neighbourhood. We need to take credit for this aspect while considering the human displacement due to these projects. If India has to prosper, apart from the River Inter Link projects, the projects / plans listed below need to be implemented on war footing, now. Anything and everything can wait and any kind of compromises can be made for completing these Projects. These projects are based on sound techno-economic and social benefits. The environmental damages expected to be caused by these projects are nothing compared to the damages caused by nature itself, by way of flood, silting, erosion, landslides, cyclone, draught, etc year after year.
It is an engineering marvel. Yes, it has displaced 1.3 million people. Still they did it for the betterment of the masses. It is producing 22,000 MW of power and it is providing additional irrigation for about 5,75,000 Hectares. Compare this project with that of our Inter Link Canals which are expected to displace only about 1.4 Million people, but irrigate about 3,50,00,000 Hectares !
Also please note, the human displacement is not anything new in the history of mankind. In India, an average of about 2 Million people migrate from villages to towns, towns to cities and from India to abroad, every year. Compared to this haphazard displacement and the complex social and economic issues to be handled, this 1.4 million displacement which is expected to happen in a planned manner over a few decades is nothing !
Also, just because in earlier years these State Governments took negative stands on these projects, it does not mean that they will never see reason and accept the benefits that will accrue to their own States, apart from the neibhouring States. After all, wisdom will prevail some day or the other. As long as we are convinced of the overall benefits for the masses, we can not keep quiet based on past failures. If the people concerned are not convinced by all scientific data, we shall not hesitate to enforce the law of the land. If need be, we can bring in suitable Constitutional Amendments. That is what is the crux of the Supreme Court judgement. Hence, it is better that Non-Technical people, arm – chair columnists and NGOs kept away from such complex schemes. These projects may look as stupendous tasks for old people who have no knowledge of modern developments. Look at Three Gorges Dam built by Chinese. It was planned in 1919 and was finally completed in 2008.
Joining all the rivers,theoritically it looks easy but from the environmental point of view its not cosiderable. We cant change the ecological components from left to right or top to bottom and if anyhow it is possible with the help of technology then it result will be a big diaster.
There are short term goals and long term one. Under the sea, Trains are planned, Sea is reclaimed and airports are made - everything we enjoy has not come all of a sudden. Think of the employment generation, flood / drought control, water starved people getting water, more agriculture. Finally all water goes to soil/ sea only. Are we not changing eco system by our life style, concrete buildings, and so on. The trouble is this will not be completed in 5 years and no Political party can claim credit. Water harnessing is the result. We have only Politicians, not Statesmen or Leaders that is the problem.
I dont see any logic in the article, it could have been made more balanced if pros of the ILR project are included, major portion of land already started becoming desertified with no cultivation and low rainfall. Wont the ILR project produce more water flowing areas and there by increase greenary? wont that greenary will be part of ecology? let us be brave while we take bold decisions, just blaming and criticizing bold ideas is not enough, do we have any alternative that saves water and stop losing it to the sea? I request The Hindu to be unbiased and present both side of views, which it always has been doing.
The author has vividly explained his perception ofthe INR Project in the context of
the stand taken by the Supreme Court thereon. After a detailed analysis of the
issue, he appeals to the SC to withdraw the Order for its implementation or at
least put it on hold for the time being to enable further discussions by all
concerned. It must be remembered that the present situation is totally different
from the one existing in the past. Even today after 62 years of independence it is
a pathetic sight to see the poor people who form the bulk of the population to
walk miles to fetch a pail of water for drinking purposes - let alone the luxury of a
bath. The entire country is facing an extraordinary situation which calls for
extraordinary remedies. The Executive has miserably failed in the performance of
its duties to the common man on various issues and if the judiciary, out of sheer
love and compassion, comes to his rescue as in the case of the INR, we dub it as
judicial overreach.
The benefits of Indian green revolution were seen only in Punjab and
Krishna Godavari Delta regions due to the efficient canal system
leading to good water supply. Peninsular rivers Godavari and Krishna
can be interlinked within state boundaries to build efficient canal
irrigation system that can transform Telangana, Vidarbha and North
Karnataka regions that traditionally depend on rainfall for
irrigation. A major irrigation canal can also be used as efficient
waterway transport and is cheapest form of transport than even
railways. The Great Canal of China has played a significant role in
development of China. Irrigation canal system will increase green
cover and improve environment in the long run in peninsular India.
At a time when the entire nation is faced with the perineal water problem , the decision of the Supreme Court to form a high level committee to go ahead with with the Project, giving it the highest priority, should be welcomed by the entire nation. No doubt the Project will be beset with many hassles such as displacement of a large population, ecology and other connected matters but given the will these are not insurmountable. Advantages to be gained by the project are numerous such as regular supply of water to all families, inland water transport, diversion of water from flood stricken areas to parched ones, hydel power etc. The entire nation should offer material support and all able-bodied persons should offer Shramdan for a few hours once a week. Youngsters particularly students from educational institutions should be motivated to take an active part during holidays. With all these measures the project will become a reality in due time for the nation's benefit.
I congratulate the editor for his upright views. The misplaced premise is that the once big rivers have surplus water. They just do not have it for various causes. It should be be a national mission for harvesting of rain water and the unitary rivers must have plans for optimum use of their water.
The Hindu editorial and the comments exemplify the great democracy that India is. It requires courage and an appreciation of the legalities of freedom in the face of an irreversible all spanning experiment involving life itself. The freedom shown both by the learned judges and the persipacious commentators must extend beyond the points raised to the ecological biogeograhical context spanning the biosphere. An intense awareness building among all of us by all of us should have preceded such a decree. In this connection my participation in the save the western ghats march decades ago showed to me how learned the people are in the villages and how local circumstances harmonise with the great diversity that is India. So a debate bringing out the Truth of the various linkages already existing must show the path to an ecologically wholesome future direction. Start fom what we should all achieve and work backwards to the present. The forests link the rivers. Make them thick is the mantra.
Sir, I fully agree with your editorial. Such kind of foresightedness, I can expect from The Hindu only.
The Supreme Court’s decision to link the rivers of the country is utterly impractical and disastrous from the aspect of environment. It is a wonderful dream for the people, who have the habit of daydreaming. India is a multinational country. Different states based on different languages are the homelands of different nationalities. River water is their natural resources. International riparian law justifies their ownership. How can Supreme Court oversight these ground realities?
From environmental aspect, this decision is also very dangerous. It will be open invitation to natural disaster. In the rainy season, how this project will control the floods. Better management of the rivers and by making them free from illegal occupations, can only control floods. We should also consider that lacs of people would be uprooted by this vast project, who will rehabilitate them. Farmers will not be ready to give their fertile land for this purpose. Thousands of people, who were uprooted because of earlier big dams, still not fully rehabilitated, by the governments. The water shortage of this country can be tackle through rain harvesting and with other traditional and non-traditional methods. So, the Center Government should think twice before undertaking this project
The editorial opinion is to be recognized as a note of caution to
address the negatives that are enumerated to find solutions. Identify
the most drought ridden areas and prioritize them in the order of
merit and start the process of linking the rivers in close proximity.
Prior consultations and concurrence of the stake holders should
mitigate inter- State problems in sharing the water resources.
Disputes will continue to be there; yet much of the drought areas
would be benefited. The recent Jalore experience in Rajasthan should
be an inspiration to extend succor to more arid regions. Dams could
cause social and ecological problems; but need to be accepted for a
larger cause. Tunneling 100 feet through rock to divert Mullai Periyar
given up by Caldwell as "decidedly chimerical and unworthy of any
further regard” was made feasible by a determined Pennycuick; but for
his dare a sizable part of T Nadu would have remained barren.
Revolutionary changes require optimism and dare.
Supreme court should first resolve the long pending issues of existing
inter state river linkage projects like SYL (Satluj Yamuna Link).
Every project has some innate flip side. Issues of water and river's
course correction apart from carrying large economic and political
stake they also have the potential to spark religious sentiments. Any
such project must be predicated not only on the decree of SC and what
is also important is to take into account the lively-hood concerns of
the people. Haste and quick decisions may lead to serious mess like
Mullaiperiyar. And then we'd helplessly witness the issue being
transferred in files from SC to HC to special committee. The ardent and
never-ending circular journey!
Dear Sir,
The S.C was forced to instruct the G.o.I on the River Water Linking
project envisaged decades ago by the then Cabinet Minister Dr.Rao under Panditji's cabinet.
I had expected Hindu to give a balanced and optimistic approach to the concept.This is not to be dismissed outright in an oversmplified manner.The future demand and generations demand that
Water is utilised to the fullest.The Judgment did not order the
linking done in a manner that will AFFECT every one.This can be done by the peopl in the areas where havoc by flooding Rivers are the severest and on a methodic way this can spread to other regions
utilising the great asset of the un employed.The advantages of having a net work of waterways provide more economical transportation of men and materials.My request is to look in this
with a pragmatic and futristic approach.We are destroying enviroment systematically by the filling of water reservoirs and
construction of concrete jungles after ensuring the forsts are denuded
The rain shadowed tamilnadu is one among the
worst water starved states. All the neighbouring
States refuse water to tamil nadu. see the plight.
Irrigation devoid - resulting in poor crops yeild
No hydro electricity, thus power starved.
Just no power means NO POWER for the common people at all,
who are let to starve.
Learning from gulf countries, like iran and all, we must
link rivers, minimizing cost & damages to eco systems.
water is a must for tamil nadu. pl give water.
We need an expedient plan to implement this such a big project. At a time not every state would be acquiesced but its the critical task that should be taken into account. Initially steps towards this project can be futile but implementation of it will remove persistent scarcity of water in some areas and position of flood in some. This idea can make our relations with other country weak but that's the challenge.
"Moving waters across river basins cannot be achieved without energy-intensive heavy lifts and destructive modification of ecologically important landscapes." Your assertion epitomises the irrelevance of an 'once upon a time' dear project concept of the Indians. When Dr. Viswesariah conceivd it as his pet project, the political scenario was different. Social harmony and patriotic instincts were genuine. National respect was placed at a high pedastal. Now things have changed radically, of course, changed for the worse. Now the national effort would turn out to be an exercise in futility. It adds to the bickerings between the States. Morover, as you rightly apprehend, the river linking will trigger an ecological disaster. The Keralites harbour a genuine concern. The direction of the naturally West flowing rivers has to be reversed to the East and huge tunnels have to be bored through the western Ghats to make Pumba-Achankovil-Vaippar links. This will prove disastrous for Central Kerala.
even if all the rain water harvesting potential fructifies, we will still have only 36bcm more water conserved which is around 3-4 % of the total water now utilised. Moreover we should not always stick to the pessimistic mood over R & R policy. certainly the days of a psuedo-dictatorial government is over. A better package can be worked. Let us not abandon the idea of linking the river basins outrightly. With the current mechanism of water use, we are certainly staring at a grim future. Hence a open-minded approach is the need of the hour. Though the schemes of federal relation will definitely create roadblock in the fructification of the project.
Agree with The Hindu viewpoint hundred per cent. Interlinking of rivers, if at all attempted, will turn out to be a colossal blunder for which future generations will be doomed. Well-meant opinions should not end up as a damned inheritance.
The editorial seems to be written in a pessimistic tone. Development in modern era
always comes with certain negative effects on the existing system. But it is the duty of humanity to raise to the challenge and optimize for the larger interest. Being a person from drought-prone inner peninsular region, seen the effects of water scarcity on the lives of poor year after year. Also, floods continue to ravage water surplus regions such as Bihar, Orissa and Assam year after year. Does anybody calculated the costs of such a natural hazards?. Let us be optimistic and take incremental approach towards one of the biggest project on the earth. Let us think and identify solutions not problems.
A bold and incisive argument. There is no doubt about the impacts on environment and people belonging to different dialect groups. The one common thing that connects people of India across languages, regions is their cultural and spiritual beliefs, wherein they worship all the major rivers of India in their daily spiritual rites. Hence any alteration to the course of the rivers will definitely impact our people adversely.
It is not right to cry foul of the decision which the supreme court has come up with. The Supreme court by far in the recent times has been the one of the few constitutional bodies that is taking rational decisions keeping in mind the concerns of the larger public. This decision must be taken in the right spirit by the government, taking past examples to only showcase its de-merits is not correct, all these must be considered as lessons learnt and if the government with consulation with all the stakeholders formulate a plan to bring this into action it must be allowed on a pilot basis. Identify that area which can benefit the most with this project and also face minimal enivronment impact and implement it. It is humanely impossible to take this on a national scale at one ago. The solution must be step by step.
The points mentioned in your editorial are absolutely factual. Linking of Indian rivers is a mind boggling task. It may become a reality - at least partially - after a couple of generations. But, as a part of effective water management, what we can do immediately is arresting water wastage. This wastage could be man made or nature made. The nature created wastage is draining the excess river water into the sea. This could only be arrested by appropriate flow reorientations. As a starting point, we can identify some rivers and start the linking process in a limited geographical area and slowly and steadily widen the network, of course within limits of techno economic feasibility. This itself will be a boon for water starved areas
You have rightly sounded a note if caution. Enthusiastic dam builders
and rivers-linkers would do well to read the work of the crusading
journalist Fred Pearce “When Rivers Run Dry”- of what happened to the countries and the river systems (that were ruined) n linking or over damming.
India is blessed with abundant rainfall, better to utilize local water conservation measures like constructing small check dams,small ponds wherever feasible etc which will be very much economical and Eco friendly.Bunding farming land is in practice which is very efficient method of soil and water conservation .One back up method can be developed to support during drought years like pipelines connecting rivers to tanks and on....that too with little disturbance to nature.
A timely editorial on what might have become a Tuglakesque blunder!
Great piece of article. Those who think that interlinking can bring "green revolution" should be aware of the environmental disaster that can come along. Not to mention the damage to the "federal" system within India. Let us learn from Israel on this. Increasing the efficiency in the water-usage is the need of the hour.
SIR
I fully agree with every sentence in this well written editorial.
The long pending inter state water disputes must have driven the well meaning court to issue a directive.Alternative environmentally friendly cost effective solutions should be found
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