The Government of India is progressing with its National Perspective Plan (NPP) for Inter-Linking of Rivers (ILR) to transfer water from surplus to deficit basins. The National Water Development Agency (NWDA) is spearheading the programme.

Under the NPP, 30 ILR projects have been identified—14 under the Himalayan component and 16 under the Peninsular component. So far, 11 Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), 26 Feasibility Reports (FRs), and 30 Pre-Feasibility Reports (PFRs) have been completed.

The Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) is the first ILR project under implementation. Approved in December 2021 at an estimated cost of Rs 446.05 billion, it is being developed with Rs 393.17 billion in central support through a Special Purpose Vehicle, the Ken Betwa Link Project Authority (KBLPA). Construction of the Daudhan Dam, a key component, has been awarded, and a Project Management Consultant has been appointed.

The ILR programme aims to divert floodwaters from surplus rivers to drought-prone areas, helping mitigate both floods and water scarcity. It is also expected to recharge groundwater and support irrigation infrastructure.

In parallel, the government continues to support state-led flood management initiatives. Through the Flood Management Programme (FMP), now part of the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP), central assistance is provided for flood control, anti-erosion, drainage, and sea protection works. The FMBAP has been extended until 2026.

Under FMP, 48 projects worth Rs 18.66 billion have been approved, with Rs 9.24 billion released to Bihar. Additionally, the Ministry of Jal Shakti has urged all states to implement flood plain zoning as a key non-structural measure to reduce flood impact.

This information was shared by the Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary, in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.

News source: PIB