Multi-Purpose River Projects and Integrated Water Resources Management
India has moved right into the era of integrated water resources management approach. The country needs an appropriate infrastructure that can support its needs.
In ancient times, we used to conserve water by constructing sophisticated hydraulic structures like dams built of stone rubble, reservoirs or lakes, embankments and canals for irrigation.
The objectives or Advantages of Multipurpose Projects are:
- Generation of Power: They produce neat, pollution free and cheapest energy which is the back bone of industry and agriculture. According to the economic survey 2005-06 these produce more than 30, 000 M.W. power.
- Flood Control: These projects control the flood because water can be stored in them. These projects have converted many ‘rivers of sorrow’ into river of boon. Example River Kosi.
- Soil Conservation: These conserve the soil because they slow down the speed of water.
- Irrigation: They irrigate the fields during the dry seasons. Many canals have been dug and they irrigate dry areas.
- Afforestation: Trees are systematically planted in and around reservoirs. This helps in preserving “Wild life” and natural ecosystem.
- Water Navigation: They provide for Inland water navigation through main river or canal. It is the cheapest means of transport for heavy goods.
- Fisheries: These provide ideal condition for the breeding of fish. Chosen varieties of fish are allowed to grow.
- Tourist Centres: These projects are well cared and are scientifically developed. So these become the centre of tourist attraction.