Union Minister CR Patil Reviews Flood Control Measures in Ganga Basin
CR Patil reviews flood management strategies in the Ganga Basin, emphasizing collaboration and modern techniques for effective solutions.
New Delhi, October 29 (Daily Kiran) : Central Water Power Minister C.R. Patil convened the 19th meeting of the Ganga Flood Control Board (GFCC) to assess strategies for addressing flooding, erosion, and drainage issues in the Ganga Basin. The meeting, held recently, focused on several critical topics.
Patil highlighted the need to develop a risk-based master plan for the basin. He called for an evaluation of waterways and ventways under bridges, improvement in the quality of detailed project reports (DPRs), timely implementation of flood management projects, and the incorporation of modern technologies in flood management.
During the review meeting, the minister stressed the importance of enhanced coordination among central ministries, state governments, and other stakeholders. He directed attention to resolving issues related to river morphology, drainage problems, infrastructure development, and flood resilience.
The meeting reiterated the significance of an integrated, risk-based, and technology-enabled approach to flood management. It emphasized effective collaboration between the central and state governments, the establishment of better technical standards, and the need for coordinated implementation of flood management measures in the Ganga Basin.
Patil also underscored the importance of modern survey techniques, thorough technical investigations, and timely resolution of legal approvals that might hinder project implementation.
Attendees included West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Ram Nath Thakur, NITI Aayog member K.V. Raju, Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister and Water Resources Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, Uttar Pradesh‘s Water Power Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, and representatives from Ganga Basin states, along with senior officials from the central and state governments.
This board, chaired by the central minister, serves as a high-level institutional platform to strengthen central-state cooperation and ensure effective coordination for flood management in the Ganga Basin. The meeting provided an opportunity to review ongoing initiatives, enhance collaboration among states, and explore new methods for effective flood management.
