Three major dam projects proposed on the Yamuna and its tributaries, which have been stalled for several decades, are now set to be fast-tracked. The central government has decided to revive the Lakhwar, Renukaji and Kishau dam projects after a review. Officials state that the water from these three dams could provide a solution to Delhi's long-term water problem. According to officials, the completion of these projects will improve the water flow in the Yamuna river and meet the drinking water needs of the capital, Delhi, for the next 25 years.
High-Level Meeting On Yamuna Rejuvenation
A meeting on these projects was recently held with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Delhi's Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and Water Minister Pravesh Verma. The meeting involved discussions on a comprehensive strategy for the rejuvenation of the Yamuna and ensuring sustainable water availability in the National Capital Region.
Delhi’s Current Water Deficit
Currently, Delhi produces an average of 900 million gallons per day (MGD) of water, while the total demand is 1,113 MGD. This means the capital is facing a shortfall of about 200 MGD. Furthermore, at least 10 per cent of households in Delhi still do not have a regular piped water supply.
How Much Water Delhi Will Receive
Delhi is expected to receive significant relief after the projects are completed. Collectively, these three projects will increase the water supply, reducing reliance on seasonal and irregular water sources. According to officials, Delhi could start receiving water from these projects within the next 5 to 7 years.
Lakhwar Project: Delhi will receive approximately 135 MGD of water from the Lakhwar dam.
Renukaji Project: The Renukaji project is expected to provide 275 MGD of water.
Kishau Project: The Kishau project will be able to provide 372 MGD of water to Delhi.
Current Status And Timeline Of Projects
Lakhwar project (Uttarakhand): Approximately 12.6 per cent of the construction work has been completed so far. The target for completion is set for 2031.
Renukaji project (Himachal Pradesh): This is currently in the tendering process and is expected to be completed by 2032.
Kishau project (Uttarakhand–Himachal border): This is currently at the inter-state agreement and approval stage, with a target completion year of 2033.
Improvement In Environmental Flow (E-flow)
These dams will not only increase the quantity of water but will also improve the environmental flow (e-flow) in the Yamuna. E-flow refers to the quantity, timing and quality of water flow in a river necessary to sustain a healthy aquatic ecosystem and the human livelihoods that depend on it. An additional 1,000 cusecs of water is expected to improve the Yamuna's water quality and flow conditions.
Benefits To Other States And Hydropower
These projects will benefit not only Delhi but also Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. Water will be shared based on the cost contribution of each state. Additionally, the dams will also develop a hydropower generation capacity of over 760 megawatts.
Why Projects Were Stalled And Path Forward
According to officials, there were several reasons why these projects were stalled for a long time:
- Lack of funds
- Disputes between states
- Delays in environmental and forest clearances
Now, following the active intervention of the central government, efforts are being made to overcome these obstacles. Experts believe that if these three projects are completed within the set timeframe, it will not only strengthen Delhi's water supply but could also prove to be a major step towards the rejuvenation of the Yamuna river.