The Annual Report 2005-06 of the Central Water Commission (CWC) presents a comprehensive overview of India’s water resources, highlighting the commission’s significant achievements, projects, budget allocations, and utilization. This report underscores the strategic planning and execution in the development and management of water resources across India.

Highlighted Data

1. Geographical and Population Data:

   • Geographical Area: 329 M ha
   • Population (2006 estimate): 1086.66 million

2. Water Resources:

   • Average Annual Rainfall: 3722.9 BCM
   • Mean Annual Natural Run-off: 1869 BCM
   • Estimated Utilizable Surface Water Potential: 690 BCM
   • Total Replenishable Ground Water Resources: 433 BCM
   • Irrigation Potential from Surface Water: 76 M ha
   • Irrigation Potential from Ground Water: 64 M ha

3. Hydropower:

   • Ultimate Hydropower Potential: 84,044 MW at 60% Load Factor
   • Potential Developed by April 2006: 16,031.85 MW at 60% Load Factor

Implemented Projects

1. Design Consultancy:

   • 124 water resources development projects received detailed designs and drawings.
   • Upgradation of technical software and hardware capabilities.
   • Launch of the CWC portal “Sangam.”

2. River Management:

   • Hydrological observations at 945 sites nationwide.
   • Operation of 173 flood forecasting stations, issuing 5619 flood forecasts with 96.55% accuracy.
   • Assistance to the Royal Government of Bhutan for maintaining 35 hydro-meteorological sites.
   • Investigation of 11 hydroelectric projects in the North-Eastern region and 57 minor irrigation schemes in Mizoram.

3. Water Planning:

   • Appraisal of 53 new major irrigation projects and 23 revised major irrigation projects.
   • Monitoring of 125 major, medium, and ERM irrigation projects receiving CLA under AIBP and 133 CAD projects.

Budget Allocation and Utilization

1. Plan Schemes:

   • Total expenditure for the year 2005-06 amounted to Rs. 36.59 crore against the plan outlay of Rs. 65.61 crore.
   • Non-plan expenditure was Rs. 115.78 crore against an outlay of Rs. 104.45 crore.

2. Significant Expenditures:

   • National Water Academy: Rs. 1.59 crore
   • Snow Hydrological Studies: Rs. 0.35 crore
   • Monitoring of Water Quality: Rs. 0.71 crore
   • Strengthening of Monitoring Organization: Rs. 3.41 crore
   • Capital Outlay for Flood Control Projects: Rs. 8.35 crore

Pros and Cons of the Report

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage of water resource management and development activities.
• Detailed statistical data supporting the evaluation of projects and programs.
• Clear documentation of budget allocations and expenditures.

Cons:

• Some projects faced delays, impacting the overall effectiveness and timely benefits.
• The report could benefit from more detailed analysis on the socio-economic impacts of the water projects.

Projects Delayed

• Flood Forecasting on Rivers Common to India & Nepal: No forecast was required at some sites, indicating possible delays in the required setup.
• Survey and Investigation of Kosi High Dam: Project investigations were ongoing with partial completion.

The 2005-06 Annual Report of the Central Water Commission highlights significant strides and some delays in our mission. It is crucial for stakeholders to focus on timely completion and effective implementation of water projects to mitigate the challenges faced by our communities. Together, let us advocate for increased transparency, efficient resource utilization, and enhanced community involvement in water management projects. Your active participation and vigilance can drive the necessary changes for a sustainable water future in India.