Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav chaired a review meeting today at Mantralaya of the Narmada Control Board’s activities under the Narmada Valley Development Department. He emphasized the importance of maintaining continuous water flow at major ghats along the Narmada and highlighted ongoing efforts to expand irrigation infrastructure across the state.
Dr. Yadav assured forthcoming Central Government funding for these initiatives. Discussions with Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil, Minister of State V. Somanna, and Rajbhushan Chaudhary focused on water conservation, with a commitment from the Centre to provide special support to Madhya Pradesh.
The meeting also covered the progress of two significant river-linking projects: the Ken-Betwa Link Project and the Parvati Kali Sindh Project.
Farmers to Receive Affordable Electricity
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav directed that new sources of hydropower should be developed to provide electricity to the farmers at affordable rates. Alternative energy sources should also be used.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav has directed that while benefiting from the Narmada, we must also contribute to its well-being.
He emphasized the need for cleanliness and beautification of all public ghats, urging both administrative staff and the public to remain vigilant.
Enhancing religious sites and improving amenities near the river are priorities, including constructing shelters for Narmada Parikrama pilgrims.
Dr. Yadav called upon Jan Abhiyan Parishad and other voluntary organizations to develop additional facilities for Parikrama participants.
Water sports and tourism development schemes are to be prioritized, alongside exploring options for small cargo ships and fish farming.
Biodiversity research in the Narmada Valley and promoting pearl cultivation among farmers were also highlighted.
He stressed regular monitoring and proposed the establishment of a “Jal police” for safeguarding major ghats and river banks.
Additionally, he suggested replicating renewable energy initiatives like those at Omkareshwar and identifying sites for solar floating plants, encouraging investor participation in an upcoming Global Summit.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav directed to make maximum use of water in the ponds located downstream of Narmada. Water availability should be ensured in Yashwant Sagar and other reservoirs, which will help in averting the crisis during summers through water accumulation.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav directed to increase the use of cheap electricity through the pump storage system and to identify places for operating water ambulances for better connectivity for the villagers.
The dedication of approved projects in the near future was also discussed in the meeting. Information about the progress of the schemes implemented by Narmada Valley Development Authority was given through a presentation.
In the meeting, discussion was held on Badadeo Joint Micro Irrigation Project, Ma Rewa Lift Irrigation Project, Sondwa Lift Micro Irrigation Project, Niwali Lift Micro Irrigation Project, Maheshwar Janapav Lift Micro Irrigation Project, Sendhwa Lift Micro Irrigation Project, Dhar Lift Micro Irrigation Project, and other projects.
