Interlinking of Rivers: Solutions to Droughts, Floods, and Navigation Issues

Introduction: The concept of interlinking rivers involves connecting different river systems through canals and diversion projects. Proponents argue that this can address issues such as droughts, floods, and interrupted navigation. However, the proposal is complex and has both potential benefits and drawbacks.

Potential Benefits:

1. Drought Mitigation:
   • “Water Distribution”: Interlinking can help redistribute water from surplus regions to drought-prone areas. For example, the “Ken-Betwa Link Project” aims to transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa River basin, potentially alleviating water scarcity in Bundelkhand.
   • “Improved Water Availability”: By creating a network of linked rivers, water availability in dry regions can be enhanced, supporting agriculture and drinking water supply.
2. Flood Management:
   • “Flood Control”: Linking rivers can help manage excess water by diverting it to less flood-prone areas. For instance, the “Ganga-Cauvery Link” could help mitigate floods in the Ganges basin by redistributing water to the Cauvery basin.
   • “Regulated Flow”: A well-planned network can balance river flows and reduce the frequency and severity of flood events.
3. Navigation Enhancement:
   • “Improved Connectivity”: Interlinked rivers can facilitate navigation, reducing transportation costs and boosting trade. The “National Waterway-1” project aims to improve river transport on the Ganges, enhancing regional connectivity.
   • “Economic Opportunities”: Enhanced navigation can provide economic benefits through increased access to markets and reduced transportation costs.

Challenges and Criticisms:

1. Environmental Impact:
   • “Ecological Disruption”: River interlinking can disrupt ecosystems, alter natural flow patterns, and affect aquatic biodiversity. For example, the “Narmada Valley Project” has faced criticism for its impact on local wildlife and habitats.
   • “Displacement Issues”: Large-scale projects may lead to displacement of communities and loss of agricultural land, as seen in projects like the “Sardar Patel Dam.”
2. Technical and Financial Feasibility:
   • “High Costs”: The construction and maintenance of interlinking projects involve substantial financial investment. The estimated cost of the “National River Linking Project” is in the trillions of rupees.
   • “Technical Complexities”: Managing and maintaining a complex network of canals and reservoirs requires advanced technology and expertise, which may be challenging to implement effectively.
3. Water Sharing Disputes:
   • “Inter-State Conflicts”: The distribution of water through interlinking can exacerbate disputes between states over water rights, as seen with the “Kaveri Water Dispute.”

Conclusion: While the interlinking of rivers has the potential to address issues related to droughts, floods, and navigation, it is accompanied by significant challenges. Careful planning, environmental assessments, and stakeholder consultations are essential to ensure that such projects are sustainable and equitable. Balancing the benefits with the potential risks is crucial for the successful implementation of river interlinking initiatives.