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Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project

Why in News?

Madhya Pradesh (MP) and Maharashtra have recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaboratively implement the Tapti (Tapi) Basin Mega Recharge Project. This initiative is recognized as the world’s largest groundwater recharge scheme, aimed at maximizing the use of river water resources for irrigation across both states.

Key Takeaways

• The project is a joint inter-state groundwater recharge initiative involving Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
• It focuses on the development of three streams of the Tapti River originating from Multai, MP.
• This is the third major inter-state river project for Madhya Pradesh, following the Ken-Betwa Link Project and the Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project.

Additional Details

• Water Allocation:The project aims to divert water from the Tapti River to northeastern Maharashtra for drinking purposes and to support irrigation in southern and southeastern Madhya Pradesh. The total water usage is projected at 31.13 thousand million cubic feet (TMC), with allocations of:
  • 11.76 TMC for Madhya Pradesh
  • 19.36 TMC for Maharashtra
• The project includes the construction of a diversion weir at the MP-Maharashtra border and the development of right and left bank canals in both states.
• The initiative will utilize 3,362 hectares of land in Madhya Pradesh without requiring displacement or rehabilitation of local populations.
• Beneficiary Districts: The project will benefit districts facing groundwater stress and erratic rainfall, specifically Burhanpur and Khandwa in MP, along with Akola, Amravati, and Buldhana in Maharashtra.

In conclusion, the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project is a significant step towards sustainable water resource management in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, aiming to enhance irrigation and provide reliable drinking water in areas facing water scarcity.