The 2012-13 Annual Report of the Central Water Commission (CWC) provides a comprehensive overview of India’s water resources, key projects, budget allocations, and achievements in water management. Here are the key takeaways, data highlights, implemented projects, budget details, and an analysis of the report’s pros and cons.

Key Takeaways

1. Water Resource Management: CWC played a crucial role in developing and managing water resources, providing technical guidance, and supporting the Ministry of Water Resources on policy matters.
2. Flood Management: The CWC issued 5031 flood forecasts with a 98.17% accuracy rate, significantly aiding in effective flood management.
3. Design Consultancy: Provided detailed designs for 89 water resources development projects across India and neighboring countries.
4. Hydrological Observations: Conducted hydrological observations at 954 sites, including snow and meteorological observations.
5. International Cooperation: Supported neighboring countries like Afghanistan, Bhutan, and Nepal in water resources development.

Data Highlights

• Geographical Area: 328.7 M ha
• Population (2011): 1210.19 Million
• Average Annual Rainfall (2010): 3989.25 BCM
• Total Replenishable Ground Water Resources: 431 BCM
• Ground Water Resources Available for Irrigation: 369.6 BCM
• Ultimate Irrigation Potential: 140 M ha

Implemented Projects

• Design Consultancy: Detailed designs for 89 projects, including those in Afghanistan, Bhutan, and Nepal.
• Flood Forecasting Stations: Operated 175 stations, issuing over 5000 forecasts during the monsoon period.
• Telemetry Systems: Installed satellite-based telemetry systems at 445 stations, with 125 new stations planned.

Budget Allocation and Utilisation

• Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP): Examined proposals for the release of Rs. 3911.384 crore of Central grant under AIBP for 47 major and medium irrigation projects.
• Flood Management Programme: Continued with an outlay of Rs. 10,000 crore during the XII Plan.

Pros and Cons of the Report

Pros:

1. Comprehensive Data Collection: Extensive hydrological data collection and analysis across major river basins.
2. Technical Expertise: Provided critical design and consultancy services for major water resource projects.
3. Flood Management: High accuracy in flood forecasting, aiding in disaster preparedness and management.

Cons:

1. Project Delays: Some projects under the AIBP and Flood Management Programme experienced delays, impacting timely implementation.
2. Resource Constraints: Limitations in budget allocations may have affected the speed and efficiency of project completions.

Projects Delayed

• Specific projects under the AIBP and Flood Management Programme faced delays, though the report does not detail which projects were specifically affected.