Controversial River-Linking Project Threatens Tiger Reserve

The Ken-Betwa river-linking project aims to connect the rivers Ken and Betwa to supply water to Bundelkhand. Despite being approved by the Union Cabinet, it faces criticism for political motivations and environmental concerns, threatening both local ecosystems and the Panna Tiger Reserve.

The contentious Ken-Betwa river-linking project, initiated to alleviate water shortages in Bundelkhand, is under intense scrutiny from environmentalists and policy experts. Critics argue the project, with an estimated cost of Rs 44,605 crore, is largely politically motivated and has been greenlit despite significant ecological concerns.

Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the project promises to irrigate over 10 lakh hectares across Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh and supply drinking water to millions. However, experts like Himanshu Thakkar have highlighted that the primary beneficiaries of this initiative are outside Bundelkhand, urging for a reevaluation of its purported objectives.

Moreover, the environmental ramifications, notably the threat to the Panna Tiger Reserve, have alarmed conservationists. The project threatens to submerge significant wildlife habitats and disrupts the balance in the thriving tiger populations, with multiple species, including critically endangered vultures, at risk.