The government of Madhya Pradesh recently announced the cancellation of all contracts with the Maheshwar Hydroelectric Project after initially agreeing to purchase power from it nearly 30 years ago. The cancellation was prompted by the project’s poor financial management, along with numerous irregularities, allegations of graft, and the submergence of 61 villages. The Maheshwar Dam is one of the largest dams in the Narmada Valley Development Project, which aims to construct 30 large and 135 smaller dams in the Narmada valley.
About Narmada River
The Narmada River holds significance as the largest western-flowing river in the peninsular region. It flows through a rift valley situated between the Vindhya Range in the north and the Satpura Range in the south. It rises from the Maikala range near Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh and drains significant portions of Madhya Pradesh, with additional areas in Maharashtra and Gujarat states.
Contrary to most rivers, the Narmada does not flow west due to the land’s slope but because of its positioning amidst the rift valleys. The river is also known for forming the Dhuandhar Falls near Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh. The estuary hosts several islands, with Aliabet being the largest among them.
Major Tributaries of Narmada River
The Narmada River has several tributaries, including Hiran, Orsang, Barna, and Kolar. These tributaries play a major role in increasing the river’s reach and contributing to the surrounding ecosystems.
Hydro Power Projects on Narmada River
Several hydroelectric projects have been established on the Narmada River, such as Indira Sagar, Sardar Sarovar, and Maheshwar. These projects were designed to bolster the region’s power supply and support economic development.
Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA)
The Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) is an Indian social movement led by native tribes, farmers, environmentalists, and human rights activists. They oppose numerous large dam projects across the Narmada River for their environmental impact and displacement of communities. The Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat, one of the largest on the river, was an early point of contention in this movement.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Query
In a previous year’s Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination, the following question appeared: “The Narmada River flows to the west, while most other large peninsular rivers flow to the east. Why?” (2013). The correct answer, reflecting the geology, topography, and hydrology of the river, was: “It occupies a linear rift valley; It flows between the Vindhyas and the Satpuras.”
The circumstances surrounding the Narmada River, its hydroelectric projects, and the associated societal responses offer an intriguing example of the complexities inherent in balancing development, environmental protection, and social justice.
