The water resources department (WRD) has initiated the process of obtaining mandatory clearances from the forest department and the Union environment ministry to expedite the Nar-Par-Girna river-linking project in Nashik and Jalgaon districts.
Project Phase and Cost
The work order for the first phase, estimated at Rs 4,116.10 crore, was issued on May 11. This phase includes construction of dams at multiple sites such as Umbarpada, Saranyavan, Pratapgad, Rakshasbhuvan, Milan, Ghodi, Ukhedmal, Savarpada, and Devmal, all located in Surgana taluka of Nashik district.
Clearance Requirements
A senior WRD official stated that since part of the required land falls under forest jurisdiction, clearance from the forest department is mandatory. Additionally, a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will be conducted to secure final approval from the Union environment ministry.
Irrigation and Water Diversion
Once completed, the river-linking network is expected to bring 49,516 hectares of agricultural land under irrigation across Nashik and Jalgaon. The project aims to divert water from west-flowing rivers, which currently drain into the Arabian Sea, into the water-scarce Girna sub-basin, benefiting drought-prone talukas like Malegaon, Chalisgaon, and Bhadgaon.
Infrastructure and Land Acquisition
While the larger network spans both districts, key source infrastructure—including dams and diversion weirs to harness rainwater—is concentrated in the tribal and hilly regions of Surgana. The project will require acquisition of 3,801 hectares, comprising 1,905 hectares of government-owned land and 956 hectares of private land, and is expected to impact 516 families.
Expediting Clearances
To speed up clearances, the Girna river valley project department has initiated extensive data collection. The WRD is compiling detailed information such as forest land maps, classification records, estimated tree counts, and assessments of biodiversity and wildlife sensitivity in the project area.
Officials from the forest and wildlife departments will verify whether any project sites fall within eco-sensitive zones, wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, or wildlife corridors. Based on these findings, a final proposal will be prepared for statutory approvals. The WRD official said, “We aim to secure all necessary clearances within a year, after which physical work on the project is expected to begin.”
