National Interlinking of Rivers Authority

The Center has begun the process of establishing the National Interlinking of Rivers Authority (NIRA) which is an independent autonomous body for researching, planning, implementing and financing river network projects within the country.

Highlights

It is an independent and autonomous organization for planning, researching, financing and implementing national river network projects. It replaces the existing National Water Development Agency (NWDA) and acts as the governing body for all river connectivity projects. It is said to be run by an official of the Government of India.

Functions of NIRA

Coordinating with neighbouring countries and affected states and sectors, as well as having authority over issues related to the environment, wildlife and deforestation within the framework of river connectivity projects and their legal aspects. NIRA is allowed to raise funds and act as a depository for loans, deposits, or interest loans and can also have the authority to set up special purpose vehicles (SPVs) for individual linked projects.

Benefits of Interlinking of Rivers

Compensation for uneven water availability as most countries rely on monsoons, and precipitation varies widely from region to region. Therefore, the network helps to compensate for the availability of uneven water.

his collaboration of river projects will help India improve connectivity and solve logistics shortages by creating more inland waterways. It will ensure that water scarcity does not hinder the development of the country. Dealing with droughts and floods as the Indian Rivers Interlink aims to connect Indian rivers to a network of reservoirs and canals, thereby reducing sustained floods in some parts of India and water scarcity in other parts of India. It will also generate year-round navigation, job creation, hydropower.

Conclusion

The need and feasibility of river chaining needs to be assessed on a case-by-case basis with an emphasis on mitigating federal issues. Introducing public-private partnerships in the water sector and revising water tariffs to at least cover operating and maintenance costs. A participatory approach to promote behavioural change and community involvement in groundwater management. The chain of rivers can lead to widespread movement of people and animals. Therefore, the government needs to take appropriate rehabilitation measures. Projects of this size require careful and scientific assessment of the project and its environmental impact, especially with respect to biodiversity.