What is the status of the Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project?
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Synopsis
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has mandated the fast-tracking of the Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project. With a detailed project report due by October 15, the initiative aims to transform drought-prone areas into fertile land, benefitting thousands of villages.
Key Takeaways
- Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project aims for drought relief.
- Comprehensive project report due by October 15.
- State government assures necessary funding.
- Environmental clearances are crucial for progress.
- The project includes 41 dams and extensive pipelines.
Mumbai, Sep 8 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the administration to assess the ambitious Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project via the State-level Technical Advisory Committee. A comprehensive project report (DPR) is expected to be submitted to the government by October 15 this year.
During a review meeting, CM Fadnavis stressed the necessity for a time-bound plan for the project's advancement. He instructed officials to communicate with the Central Government and pursue at least 25 percent of the project funding.
He further assured that the state government would allocate the required funds. Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan and other relevant officials were present.
The survey for the initial phase, spanning from Gosikhurd to Lower Wardha, has been completed as scheduled. For the subsequent phase, the chief minister mandated the acquisition of environmental clearance and the immediate commencement of the first phase.
Previously, CM Fadnavis mentioned that the ₹ 87,000 crore Wainganga-Nalganga and the ₹ 7,015 crore Nar-Par-Girna river linking projects aim to irrigate 95,760 hectares. Additionally, the ₹ 40,000 crore Marathwada Water Grid will benefit 12,000 villages across 79 sub-divisions and 79 towns in Marathwada.
These initiatives are designed to tackle persistent drought conditions in the underdeveloped regions of Vidarbha, Marathwada, and North Maharashtra.
According to the water resources department, the Wainganga–Nalganga Interlinking Project intends to transfer water from the Wainganga River (a tributary of the Godavari) into the Nalganga basin (part of the Tapi system). The objective is to irrigate vast areas of previously arid farmland.
The project will cover approximately 426–427 km of canals, pipelines, and lift-irrigation systems. It includes around 41 dams, comprising 10 existing and 31 new reservoirs to be constructed.
Collectively, these facilities will have a water storage capacity of about 1,772 million cubic metres.
Point of View
The Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project represents a significant step towards addressing the water crisis in Maharashtra. It highlights the government's commitment to improving agricultural productivity while ensuring sustainable water management. This initiative could serve as a vital model for similar projects across India, particularly in drought-prone areas.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project?
The project aims to interlink the Wainganga and Nalganga rivers to enhance irrigation and water supply in Maharashtra.
When is the detailed project report due?
The detailed project report is due by October 15 this year.
How much funding is the project seeking from the Central Government?
The project is seeking at least 25 percent of its funding from the Central Government.
What areas will benefit from the project?
The project aims to benefit drought-affected regions in Vidarbha, Marathwada, and North Maharashtra.
What is the expected storage capacity of the project?
The combined storage capacity of the reservoirs is approximately 1,772 million cubic metres.
