The Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project stands as a pioneering inter-state collaboration between Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, aiming to rejuvenate groundwater aquifers through the innovative use of surplus water from the Tapti River. Eschewing large dams, the project embraces sustainable techniques such as weirs and canal systems to bolster water availability across the regions.
Renowned as the world's largest groundwater recharge initiative, this project tackles critical challenges like dwindling groundwater levels, water salinity, irrigation gaps, and rural drinking water needs. Importantly, it achieves these goals without inducing significant displacement or ecological harm.
The project envisages a total recharge capacity of 8.31 TMC, with 11.76 TMC designated for Madhya Pradesh and 19.36 TMC for Maharashtra. This strategic allocation underscores the project's commitment to regional water security.
In contrast to traditional methods, this project utilizes only 3,362 hectares of land in Madhya Pradesh, ensuring no displacement of villages or the necessity for rehabilitation, as was previously required in older proposals.
Substantial enhancements in irrigation capacity are anticipated:
Key beneficiaries include districts like Budhana, Akola, and Amravati in Maharashtra, which grapple with severe water salinity and supply issues. In Madhya Pradesh, the Nimar region will experience relief from erratic water supplies that have hindered agricultural productivity.
Initially, a conventional 66 TMC reservoir was proposed, which would have submerged over 17,000 hectares, displaced approximately 14,000 people across 73 villages, and harmed forest and wildlife areas. The switch to a groundwater recharge model significantly mitigates these impacts.
The model employs a strategic network of weirs, canals, and minor storage structures to channel river water into underground aquifers. This approach replenishes groundwater without flooding large areas, preserving ecological balance while augmenting water storage.
The Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project forms part of a larger inter-state river management framework, following projects like the Ken-Betwa Link with Uttar Pradesh and the Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link with Rajasthan. Together, these initiatives aim to ensure regional water security and foster cooperative water resource management.
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