The Central Water Commission (CWC) has released its comprehensive Annual Report for 2017-18, offering insights into its extensive activities and achievements in water resource management across India. This article highlights key takeaways, projects implemented, budget allocations, utilization, and a critical analysis of the report.

Key Takeaways

The report underscores significant achievements in design consultancy, river management, water planning, and training programs. Notable milestones include:

1. Design consultancy for 64 water resources projects in India and neighboring countries.
2. Hydrological observations at 954 sites across various river basins.
3. Issuance of 6297 flood forecasts with a 93.71% accuracy rate.
4. Monitoring of 91 major reservoirs for effective water utilization planning.
5. Accreditation of water quality laboratories in Hyderabad, Varanasi, and Coimbatore.

Highlighted Data

The report provides crucial data on India’s water resources:

• Average annual rainfall: 4000 BCM
• Utilizable surface water potential: 690 BCM
• Groundwater resources for irrigation: 369 BCM
• Total cultivable land: 182.2 Mha
• Ultimate irrigation potential: 140 Mha

Projects Implemented

The CWC has successfully implemented various projects, including:

• 64 water resources development projects in India, Bhutan, and Nepal.
• Design consultancy for detailed designs and hydraulic structures.
• Techno-economic appraisal of 13 major and medium irrigation projects and flood control projects.
• Flood forecasting services at 226 stations across 19 major river basins.

Budget Allocation and Utilization

The budget allocation and utilization are as follows:

• Central assistance disbursed: Rs. 3596 Crore under PMKSY-AIBP program.
• Funds released to 52 major and medium irrigation projects.
• Flood management program with Rs. 206.95 Crore released in 2017-18.

Pros and Cons of the Report

Pros:

• Comprehensive data on water resources and their management.
• Successful implementation of numerous projects.
• Enhanced flood forecasting and water quality monitoring.

Cons:

• Delays in certain projects, impacting timely completion and benefits.
• Need for better coordination and resource allocation for more efficient project execution.

Projects Delayed

The report acknowledges delays in some projects under PMKSY-AIBP and flood management programs. Efforts are ongoing to expedite the completion of these projects, with targeted timelines extending to December 2019 for remaining priority projects.