What are the major challenges in India's river interlinking projects in relation to climate change
India's river interlinking projects face a blindspot when it comes to addressing climate change and its impacts.
The major challenges in India's river interlinking projects in relation to climate change are as follows:
- Uncertain water availability: Climate change has led to increased variability in monsoon patterns, leading to uncertain water availability. This poses a challenge in estimating the water transfer needs for interlinking projects.
- Ecological impacts: Interlinking rivers can have adverse ecological impacts, especially in regions with unique ecosystems. Climate change may further exacerbate these impacts, affecting biodiversity, river ecosystems, and fragile habitats.
- Inundation risks: With changing rainfall patterns and intensities, there is an increased risk of flooding in some areas. River interlinking projects need to carefully consider these risks to avoid inundation and related damages.
- Increased water stress: Climate change often leads to increased water stress in certain regions. Interlinking projects need to prioritize water allocation and transfers to ensure equitable distribution and minimize conflicts.
- Potential for droughts: Climate change can also lead to more frequent and severe droughts, further complicating water transfer planning. Adequate water availability during drought periods needs careful consideration in interlinking projects.
- Cost considerations: The infrastructural requirements for implementing river interlinking projects are substantial. Climate change may increase costs due to the need for additional safeguards and measures to adapt to changing conditions.
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