Rajasthan Chief Minister Urges Timely Completion of Chambal Aqueduct Project
In a significant development for water infrastructure in Rajasthan, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has issued a directive to officials of the Water Resources Department (WRD) to ensure the completion of the three-storey Chambal Aqueduct Project well ahead of its 2027 deadline. This project is a crucial component of the Ram Jal Setu Link Project, which is a modified version of the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Integrated Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP).
Project Overview and Strategic Importance
During an inspection at Guhata village in Bundi, Chief Minister Sharma emphasized the project's critical role in enhancing water availability across eastern Rajasthan. The Ram Jal Setu Link Project is designed to provide adequate drinking and irrigation water to 17 districts, impacting nearly 40% of the state's population. This initiative is expected to address long-standing water scarcity issues and support agricultural and industrial growth in the region.
Engineering Details and Environmental Considerations
Engineers involved in the project have detailed that the 2,280-metre aqueduct will connect Samel village in Pipalda, Kota, to Guhata village in Bundi. This structure will facilitate the transfer of water from the Kalishindh Barrage to Mej Island, all while ensuring the protection of the Chambal River ecosystem, which includes a protected crocodile reserve. The careful planning aims to minimize environmental disruption while maximizing water resource utilization.
Widespread Benefits Across Districts
The project's reach extends to 17 districts, including Bundi, Jhalawar, Kota, Baran, Dausa, Alwar, Bharatpur, Karauli, Dungarpur, Ajmer, Tonk, Sawai Madhopur, Jaipur, Beawar, Kotputli-Behror, Dholpur, and Kherthal-Tijara. Key benefits include:
- Drinking water supply to approximately 3.25 lakh people.
- Irrigation water for over 2.8 lakh hectares of agricultural land.
- Water allocation for industrial areas to boost economic activities.
Additionally, the project incorporates a lift system to supply water to Bisalpur and Isarda dams, and it is anticipated to help refill the historic Ramgarh Lake in Jaipur, reviving a vital water body for the region.
On-Site Activities and Official Presence
During the inspection, Chief Minister Sharma performed a ceremonial puja at the aqueduct pier, reviewed an exhibition showcasing the project's progress and design, and planted a tree at the site to symbolize environmental stewardship. The event was attended by key officials, including WRD Minister Suresh Singh Rawat, Minister of State for Energy (Independent Charge) Hiralal Nagar, and WRD Secretary Abhay Kumar, highlighting the government's commitment to this transformative initiative.
