Maharashtra CM Directs Preparation of DPR for Floodwater Diversion Project
In a significant move to address water scarcity and flooding issues, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has issued a directive for the preparation of a detailed project report (DPR) within six months. This project aims to divert excess floodwater from western Maharashtra to drought-prone areas of Marathwada, as announced by Tuljapur MLA Ranajagjitsinh Patil on Friday.
Project Overview and Key Details
The ambitious initiative proposes to channel approximately 50 to 55 TMC of floodwater from Kolhapur and Sangli districts to regions including Dharashiv, Solapur, Latur, and parts of Pune district. This directive follows a positive feasibility report, which has cleared the path for detailed planning and execution phases.
Ranajagjitsinh Patil, who also serves as vice-chairman of the Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA), highlighted that the project will involve constructing a 90-kilometer-long tunnel. This infrastructure is designed to capture water that currently flows into the sea during flood seasons, thereby mitigating waste and enhancing water availability.
Implementation and Financial Aspects
The Water Resources Department (WRD) has been tasked with preparing and submitting the DPR to the state government within the specified six-month timeframe. The project is estimated to cost around Rs 16,000 crore, with Rs 2,400 crore already allocated in the state budget to support initial stages.
Implementation will be carried out through MITRA, with assistance from the World Bank. A feasibility study was conducted by a Delhi-based firm acting as a technical consultant to the World Bank. Patil recently visited Delhi to review the study's progress before the Chief Minister issued directions for the DPR.
Addressing Dual Challenges
WRD officials emphasized that the project is strategically designed to tackle two critical issues simultaneously. It aims to reduce frequent flooding in Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara districts while alleviating recurring drought conditions in Dharashiv and nearby areas of Marathwada.
An official stated, "By diverting surplus water, the plan aims to reduce flood intensity in western Maharashtra while ensuring water availability in Marathwada." Additionally, the project will help secure Marathwada's share of 23.6 TMC of water, a demand strongly advocated by former minister Padmasinh Patil.
Broader Implications and Next Steps
This initiative represents a proactive approach to water management in Maharashtra, leveraging infrastructure to balance regional water disparities. The focus now shifts to the WRD's efforts in developing a comprehensive DPR, which will outline technical specifications, environmental impacts, and phased implementation strategies.
As the state moves forward, this project could serve as a model for similar water diversion efforts across India, addressing both flood control and drought mitigation in an integrated manner.
