Environment – Chambal River Flow Concerns Rise Amid Dam Projects Impact
Environment – India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has asked the Central Water Commission to suggest measures to maintain adequate environmental flow in the Chambal River during low-water months. The move comes amid growing concerns that ongoing and proposed infrastructure projects could disrupt the fragile ecosystem that supports the endangered Ganges River dolphin.
Concerns Over Water Diversion Projects
The issue has gained urgency following the rollout of multiple dam constructions under the East Rajasthan Canal Project. These structures are being developed across key tributaries of the Chambal, including the Banas, Kuno, Parbati, and Kalisindh rivers, spanning parts of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
Officials familiar with the matter have indicated that diverting water from these tributaries could significantly reduce downstream flow in the Chambal. Such reductions are particularly critical during the lean season when river levels are already low. The situation may be further aggravated by high evaporation rates during peak summer, leading to additional water loss.
Lack of Environmental Impact Assessment Raises Questions
One of the key concerns flagged by experts is the absence of a comprehensive environmental impact assessment for the canal project. There has been no detailed evaluation of how these interventions might affect aquatic biodiversity, particularly sensitive species like dolphins and gharials.
Experts warn that without proper scientific assessment, the long-term consequences could be severe. The Chambal River is one of the last remaining strongholds for several endangered aquatic species, and any disruption in flow patterns may alter their habitat irreversibly.
Minimum Water Depth Critical for Dolphin Survival
Research conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India highlights that Ganges River dolphins require a minimum water depth of three metres in flowing rivers to survive during dry periods. Reduced flow could make it difficult for dolphins to move freely, restricting them to isolated deep pockets of water.
Officials stress that maintaining consistent flow is not only essential for dolphins but also for other species such as gharials and freshwater turtles, which depend on stable river conditions for feeding and breeding.
Field Study Reveals Changing River Dynamics
The Wildlife Institute of India carried out an extensive field study to understand the distribution and habitat conditions of aquatic species in the Chambal River system. The research included observations of dolphins, gharials, and turtles, along with measurements of water depth, quality, and seasonal flow variations.
Additionally, the study examined detailed 10-day interval flow data collected by the Central Water Commission. The findings suggest that declining water levels are already influencing animal behavior, particularly during the lean season when dolphins tend to cluster in deeper sections of the river.
Balancing Development and Conservation
The developments have reignited the debate on balancing large-scale water infrastructure projects with environmental conservation. While the East Rajasthan Canal Project aims to address water scarcity in the region, experts argue that ecological sustainability must be a central consideration.
The Ministry’s directive to the Central Water Commission is seen as an important step toward addressing these concerns. Recommendations from the Commission are expected to guide policymakers in ensuring that water diversion does not compromise the ecological integrity of the Chambal River.
As discussions continue, environmentalists are urging authorities to prioritise scientific studies and adopt a cautious approach before proceeding further with river-altering projects.