The Indian River-Linking Programme

In the context of hydrological variability, phenomenal growth in population in water scarce regions and unpredictable climatic changes affecting regional water supplies, the importance of large-scale infrastructure projects has increased tremendously over the years. Inter-basin transfer is often cited as the most effective strategy for solving a plethora of contemporary water-related problems with a single solution. Taking the example of India, this article examines the political, social and economic context of a national policy that envisions interlinking 30 rivers across the subcontinent in response to an alarming water crisis in the country. Water transfer infrastructure aims to reduce such vulnerabilities. The scheme is both highly ambitious and greatly shrouded in controversy. In the backdrop of possible beneficial and adverse effects of the policy, this article will aim to provide a multidimensional view of the implications and risks of long distance water transfer at a national scale.