Agreement Signed for Yamuna Water Transfer
In a significant inter-state water agreement, Haryana and Rajasthan have finalized a pact to supply 580 million cubic metres (MCM) of Yamuna water to Rajasthan through an underground pipeline network. The water will be drawn from the Western Yamuna Canal in Haryana and transported to the arid districts of Sikar, Churu, and Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan. The project aims to address the acute drinking water shortage in these regions and promote groundwater recharge.
Timeline and Implementation
The water transfer is scheduled to occur during the monsoon months, from July to October each year. The underground pipeline system is designed to minimize evaporation losses and ensure efficient delivery. According to officials, the project will be executed in phases, with the first phase targeting the most water-stressed areas. The agreement was finalized after several rounds of negotiations between the two state governments, with the central government playing a facilitative role.
Impact on Water-Scarce Districts
Sikar, Churu, and Jhunjhunu are among the most drought-prone districts in Rajasthan, relying heavily on groundwater extraction. The Yamuna water supply is expected to provide a reliable source of drinking water for over 2 million residents. Additionally, the project includes provisions for groundwater recharge, which will help replenish depleted aquifers. A senior Rajasthan government official stated, "This agreement will transform the water landscape of these districts and reduce dependency on erratic rainfall."
Funding and Technical Details
The project is estimated to cost around ₹8,000 crore, with funding from both state governments and central water resources ministry. The underground pipelines will span approximately 350 kilometers, with multiple pumping stations and treatment plants along the route. Haryana will receive compensation for the water supplied, though the exact terms have not been disclosed. The agreement also includes a monitoring mechanism to ensure equitable distribution and prevent disputes.
Broader Significance for Inter-State Water Cooperation
This pact marks a milestone in inter-state water cooperation in India, where river water sharing has often been contentious. The Yamuna water agreement is seen as a model for other states facing water scarcity. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who was present at the signing, said, "This agreement demonstrates that with political will and technical innovation, we can solve water problems collaboratively." The project is expected to be completed within five years, with the first water flows anticipated by 2028.
