Question : MULTIPURPOSE PROJECTS

(a) the details of major multi-purpose and irrigation projects, which are still under execution/not yet completed, since Eighth Five Year Plan period;

(b) whether the Government proposes to simplify the process to expedite grant of sanction for construction of major multipurpose projects in view of the number of years taken for the execution/clearance of these projects and if so, the details thereof; and

(c) whether the Government proposes to accord priority to the States including Madhya Pradesh lacking irrigation facilities for providing assistance under the Central Assistance Schemes for irrigation projects and if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF WATER RESOURCES, RIVER DEVELOPMENT AND GANGA REJUVENATION (SUSHRI UMA BHARTI)

(a)to(c) A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF STARRED QUESTION NO. †174. TO BE ANSWERED ON 04.12.2014 IN LOK SABHA REGARDING“MULTIPURPOSE PROJECTS” ASKED BY SHRI BODHSINGH BHAGAT, HON’BLE M.P, LOK SABHA:

(a) The details of 241 Major, Medium and Extension, Renovation and Modernization (ERM) irrigation projects initiated in the VIII Plan, which were reported as ongoing at the end of XI Plan are given at Annexure-I.

(b) It is often seen that the requisite investigations and related studies are often not carried out by the States before submission of the DPRs by the States to the CWC. In a number of cases vital data critical for a proper project appraisal is missing. In addition, many technical issues are involved, which need to be rectified to establish techno-economic viability of the project to justify the size of public investment associated with such projects, which is often substantial. Moreover, in a number of cases, it has also been seen that the cost estimates are often not prepared on realistic basis resulting in estimates being on the higher side. Therefore, to ensure the safety of the structure and population downstream detailed appraisal is required by CWC.

The process of monitoring has, however, been strengthened to ensure timely clearances at all levels.

(c) The criteria for inclusion of new Major and Medium Irrigation (MMI) Projects under Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP), stipulating completion of an ongoing irrigation project, on a one to one basis, has been relaxed for all the States having irrigation development below the national average. Accordingly, Mahur Medium Irrigation Project of Madhya Pradesh was included during 2013-14.