Chambal River Faces Threats Despite High Conservation Value

The Indira Gandhi Canal, which flows through a small stretch of northwestern Haryana before traversing Rajasthan and ending in the Thar Desert near Gadra Road in Jaisalmer district, is India’s longest canal, at 837 kilometres. It provides critical water supply to Jaisalmer and thousands of remote desert villages. The canal has also reduced dependence on scarce groundwater and supports large-scale irrigation, enabling farmers to cultivate crops and significantly strengthen animal husbandry. This development is closely linked to the National Water Policy, which aims to optimize water use across the country.

Geographic Features and Water Supply

The Chambal River, a tributary of the Yamuna River in central India, forms part of the Gangetic river system. It originates at Janapav, south of Mhowtown, near Manpur, Indore, on the south slope of the Vindhya Range in Madhya Pradesh. Its basin drains the Malwa Plateau, while its important tributary, the Banas River, originates in the Aravalli Range of Rajasthan. Understanding these geographic features is crucial for managing water resources effectively, as outlined in the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act 1956.

• ▸The Chambal River supports more than 550 species, including the critically endangered gharial and the red-crowned roofed turtle.
• ▸It hosts one of the most important habitats of the Gangetic dolphin, Indian skimmer, black-bellied tern, sarus crane, and a host of endangered turtle species.
• ▸The river is a vital corridor for dispersal of wildlife in an otherwise fragmented forest landscape across more than a dozen national parks and sanctuaries.

Water Scarcity and Conservation Efforts

Despite progress in water supply through canals and rivers, the problem of water scarcity persists. According to the Central Groundwater Board, as of 2022, Jaisalmer’s urban area was among seven cities in the list of 219 of Rajasthan’s 302 blocks which were categorised as over-exploited for groundwater. This situation underscores the need for sustainable water management practices, as advocated by the Jal Jeevan Mission.

Environmental Impact and Geopolitical Considerations

The environmental impact of human activity on India's diverse physical landscapes is a significant concern. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification 2006 requires assessments for certain projects to mitigate adverse environmental effects. Furthermore, geopolitical considerations, such as the sharing of water resources with neighboring countries, play a crucial role in India's water management strategies, as seen in the Indus Waters Treaty 1960.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding India's geography, particularly its river systems and water supply mechanisms, is essential for addressing the country's water scarcity issues and promoting sustainable development. The interplay between geographic features, water management policies, and environmental conservation efforts is complex and requires a holistic approach, as envisioned by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG).