Ken-Betwa Link Project: Concern
Concerns over the construction work for the Ken-Betwa river linking project going on in the Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, citing a severe impact on the wildlife population inside the reserve.
- It is a river interlinking project designed to transfer surplus water from the Ken River (Madhya Pradesh) to the water-scarce Betwa basin (Uttar Pradesh), both tributaries of the Yamuna.
- It is expected to bring prosperity to the drought-prone Bundelkhand region.
- Phase I of the project involves the construction of the Daudhan Dam in Madhya Pradesh, a 77-meter-high structure, and a 221 km long canal, including a 2 km tunnel, to move water efficiently.
- The project will also generate 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar power.
- The project will utilize 4,543.52 MCM of water, benefiting Madhya Pradesh (2,350 MCM) and Uttar Pradesh (1,700 MCM) for irrigation, drinking water, and industrial use.
- Phase II of the project includes the Lower Orr Dam, Kotha Barrage, and Bina Complex Projects to enhance water availability.
- A significant concern is the impact on Panna Tiger Reserve, as nearly 6,000 hectares of its core area will be submerged due to the dam construction, affecting wildlife habitats.
