Sardar Sarovar Dam – A Key Water Resource Project in India 💧

The Sardar Sarovar Dam, located on the Narmada River in Gujarat, is one of India’s most significant water resource projects. It is part of the Sardar Sarovar Project, which spans four states – Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. This massive project aims to address the water scarcity issues in the drought-prone and desert regions of India.

Key Features of the Sardar Sarovar Dam:

1. Water Supply and Irrigation: 🚰🌾

   • The project will provide irrigation facilities to 18.45 lakh hectares of land across 3112 villages in 15 districts of Gujarat.
   • Additionally, Rajasthan and Maharashtra will benefit:
     • Rajasthan: Irrigating 2,46,000 hectares of land in Barmer and Jalore districts, which are part of the desert region. 🌵
     • Maharashtra: Providing irrigation to 37,500 hectares of land in tribal hilly regions through lift irrigation. 🏞️

2. Drought-Proofing: 🌧️🔒

   • Approximately 75% of the command area in Gujarat is drought-prone, while the entire command area in Rajasthan faces drought conditions. 🌵
   • The assured water supply from the Sardar Sarovar Dam is expected to make these areas drought-proof, ensuring sustainable agriculture and water security. 💧🌱

3. Hydroelectric Power Generation: ⚡💡

   • In addition to irrigation, the Sardar Sarovar Dam will also generate hydroelectric power, contributing to the region’s energy needs. ⚡

Krishna-Godavari Dispute – A Disagreement Over Water Allocation 🌊

The Krishna-Godavari dispute involves objections raised by Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh governments regarding the diversion of water at the Koyna reservoir in Maharashtra for a multipurpose project. The core issue is that:

• The Maharashtra government intends to divert more water from the Koyna River, which is a key tributary of the Krishna River. 🌊
• This diversion would reduce the downstream flow of water into Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, potentially leading to adverse effects on agriculture and industry in these states. 🌾🏭

Implications of the Dispute:

• Agriculture 🌾: The reduced water flow could harm irrigation-dependent agriculture in the downstream states, affecting crop production. 🚜
• Industry 🏭: Water is crucial for industrial activities, and any shortage could disrupt industries relying on consistent water supply. 🛠️