The Central Water Commission (CWC) Annual Report for 2006-07 provides a comprehensive overview of the organization’s activities, key achievements, and financial allocations during the year. This article highlights the key takeaways from the report, including significant projects implemented, budget allocation and utilization, and an analysis of the report’s strengths and weaknesses.

Key Takeaways

The 2006-07 CWC Annual Report underscores the pivotal role of the commission in water resource management in India. The CWC made substantial contributions in various domains, including consultancy, project monitoring, flood management, and international cooperation. Some of the notable achievements include:

1. Design Consultancy: The CWC provided design consultancy for 125 water resource development projects across India and neighboring countries.
2. Project Monitoring and Appraisal: The commission appraised and monitored numerous major, medium, and extension/renovation/modernization (ERM) irrigation projects. A total of 73 major, 33 medium, and 9 ERM projects were monitored, along with the examination of proposals for central grant release under the AIBP program.
3. Flood Management: During the monsoon season of 2006, the CWC issued 6655 flood forecasts with a remarkable accuracy rate of 95.72%. The commission also evaluated 98 flood management schemes and master plans for flood control.
4. Hydrological Observations: The CWC conducted hydrological observations at 878 stations and operated 175 flood forecasting stations, ensuring effective flood management.
5. International Cooperation: The CWC provided technical assistance to the Royal Government of Bhutan for maintaining hydro-meteorological stations and investigated hydroelectric projects in India and Nepal.

Data Highlighted

The report presents detailed data on India’s land and water resources, including geographical area, population, rainfall variation, river basins, and water resources potential. Key statistics include:

• Average Annual Rainfall (2001-2005): 3693.6 BCM
• Mean Annual Natural Run-Off: 1869 BCM
• Estimated Utilisable Surface Water Potential: 690 BCM
• Ground Water Resources Available for Irrigation: 369.6 BCM
• Ultimate Irrigation Potential: 140 M ha

Projects Implemented

Several significant projects were implemented during the year, including:

1. Hydrological Observations on Rivers Originating from Bhutan: Collection of hydrological data and preparation of snowmelt runoff models.
2. Flood Forecasting Network Modernization: Modernization of flood forecasting stations in the Brahmaputra and Barak basins.
3. Interstate Water Dispute Assistance: Technical assistance in resolving disputes such as the Cauvery, Mandovi, Krishna, and Ravi-Beas water disputes.

Budget Allocation and Utilization

The report outlines the budget allocation and utilization for various schemes. The total plan outlay for 2006-07 was Rs. 74.39 crore, with an actual expenditure of Rs. 43.25 crore. Key allocations included:

• National Water Academy: Rs. 1.77 crore (actual expenditure Rs. 1.64 crore)
• Snow Hydrological Studies: Rs. 0.54 crore (actual expenditure Rs. 0.39 crore)
• Strengthening of Monitoring Organization: Rs. 3.94 crore (actual expenditure Rs. 3.30 crore)
• Flood Forecasting Network Modernization: Rs. 16.65 crore (actual expenditure Rs. 11.95 crore)

Pros and Cons of the Report

Pros:

1. Comprehensive Coverage: The report provides a thorough overview of CWC’s activities, achievements, and financial allocations.
2. Detailed Data: Extensive data on water resources and project implementation enhances transparency and accountability.
3. International Cooperation: Highlighting international collaboration efforts reflects CWC’s commitment to regional water resource management.

Cons:

1. Project Delays: Several projects experienced delays, impacting their timely completion and effectiveness.
2. Budget Utilization: The actual expenditure was significantly lower than the allocated budget, indicating potential inefficiencies in resource utilization.

Projects Delayed

The report mentions that some projects faced delays, including:

1. Investigation for Water Resources Development in N.E. States: Delays in survey and investigation of minor irrigation schemes in Mizoram and hydroelectric projects in Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Survey and Investigation of Kosi High Dam: Prolonged survey and investigation processes delayed the preparation of detailed project reports.

I firmly believe that the findings of the CWC Annual Report for 2006-07 highlight the critical need for efficient water resource management in India. While the report showcases significant achievements, it also underscores areas requiring improvement, particularly in project execution and budget utilization. To ensure sustainable water management, it is imperative to address project delays and enhance resource efficiency.