Daily Current Affairs : 21-August-2023

In recent times, Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh have witnessed heavy rainfall, leading to a significant surge in water levels within Punjab’s rivers. This unforeseen deluge has prompted discussions among experts about the potential benefits of canalising these rivers to manage water resources effectively and prevent flooding. This essay explores the concept of canalisation, the current state of river canalisation in Punjab, its role in flood prevention, advantages, and challenges associated with this approach.

Canalisation of Rivers: A Solution for Effective Water Management

Canalisation refers to the controlled regulation of river waters by directing them into specific channels. This process involves various techniques, including the construction of mini dams, Dhussi Bandhs, connecting canal systems to rivers, and reinforcing earthen embankments when necessary. The primary goal of canalisation is to optimize water distribution, prevent flooding, enhance navigation, and improve overall water resource utilization.

The Current State of Canalisation in Punjab

Punjab is endowed with three perennial rivers – Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi – and one non-perennial river, Ghaggar. Additionally, the state boasts a network of 100 local rivulets, choes, and khads, which flow during the monsoon season and ultimately join these main rivers. However, only the three perennial rivers have been canalised through the construction of dams, namely, the Bhakra dam on Sutlej, the Pong dam on Beas, and the Ranjit Sagar dam on Ravi. The Ghaggar river, although partially canalised, faces challenges due to the weaknesses in the Dhussi Bandhs.

Unfortunately, many smaller water bodies like Nallahs lack proper canalisation. These waterways overflow during the monsoon season, exacerbating flood risks in various districts, such as Hoshiarpur. While some small earthen dams exist, they have limited capacity to handle excessive water flow.

Can Canalisation Play a Role in Flood Prevention?

Canalisation holds immense potential in mitigating the effects of both local rain and dam releases. A long-term approach, coupled with regular Dhussi Bandh maintenance, can significantly contribute to flood prevention. Furthermore, the development of riverfront areas through canalisation can stimulate economic growth, diversify livelihood sources, and benefit Punjab’s burgeoning younger generation.

Advantages of Canalisation of Rivers
  1. Effective Water Flow Management: Canalisation allows for better regulation of water flow during periods of heavy rainfall or snowmelt, reducing the risk of flooding by diverting excess water into controlled channels.
  2. Enhanced Navigation: Canalisation facilitates smoother navigation for boats and ships by maintaining regular water depths and removing obstructions, particularly benefiting the transportation and trade industries.
  3. Stable Water Supply: It ensures a consistent and stable water supply for various applications, including drinking water, irrigation, and industrial needs, by managing water flow effectively.
Challenges in Canalisation
  1. Environmental Impact: Canalisation can potentially alter natural ecosystems, affecting aquatic habitats, fishing, and water quality. Careful planning and mitigation measures are necessary to minimize these impacts.
  2. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues like silt buildup, erosion, and infrastructure damage in canalised water basins. Neglecting maintenance can undermine the effectiveness of canalisation efforts.

Important Points:

  • Canalisation involves regulating river water through controlled channels, using techniques like mini dams, Dhussi Bandhs, and embankments.
  • Its goals include optimizing water distribution, preventing flooding, enhancing navigation, and improving water resource utilization.
  • In Punjab, three perennial rivers (Sutlej, Beas, Ravi) and one non-perennial river (Ghaggar) require canalisation.
  • Currently, only three perennial rivers have been canalised with dams; Ghaggar river is partially canalised.
  • Many smaller water bodies like Nallahs lack proper canalisation, posing flood risks.
  • Canalisation plays a vital role in flood prevention by controlling local rainwater and dam releases.
  • It can stimulate economic growth and diversify livelihood sources through riverfront development.
  • Advantages of canalisation include effective water flow management, enhanced navigation, and a stable water supply.
  • Challenges include potential environmental impacts and the need for regular maintenance to prevent issues like silt buildup.
  • Careful planning and mitigation measures are essential for minimizing environmental impacts.
Why In News

In response to the recent deluge of rain across Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, which led to a significant surge in water levels within Punjab’s river systems, experts have emphasized the urgent need for river canalization as a viable solution. They believe that channeling these rivers could help mitigate the devastating impact of such heavy rainfall in the future, ensuring the safety and well-being of the region’s inhabitants.

MCQs about Canalisation

  1. What is the primary objective of canalisation?
    A) To increase the flow of water in rivers.
    B) To promote fishing and aquatic habitats.
    C) To regulate river water and prevent flooding.
    D) To divert water away from agriculture.
    Correct Answer: C) To regulate river water and prevent flooding.
    Explanation: The one of the primary goals of canalisation is to regulate river water and prevent flooding by controlling its flow through controlled channels.
  2. Which of the following rivers in Punjab has NOT been canalised with a dam?
    A) Sutlej
    B) Beas
    C) Ravi
    D) Jhelum
    Correct Answer: D) Jhelum
    Explanation: The three perennial rivers in Punjab, Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi, have been canalised with dams, but it does not mention the Jhelum river.
  3. What environmental concerns are associated with canalisation?
    A) None, canalisation has no environmental impact.
    B) Increased aquatic habitats and better fishing opportunities.
    C) Alteration of natural ecosystems and potential water quality issues.
    D) Improved water quality and reduced impact on aquatic life.
    Correct Answer: C) Alteration of natural ecosystems and potential water quality issues.
    Explanation: The canalisation has the potential to modify natural ecosystems and may impact water quality, making it an environmental concern.
  4. What economic benefits can canalisation bring to Punjab?
    A) Increased flood risks.
    B) Diversification of economic activities and livelihood sources.
    C) Decreased navigation opportunities.
    D) Limited water supply for industrial activities.
    Correct Answer: B) Diversification of economic activities and livelihood sources.
    Explanation: Canalisation, coupled with riverfront development, can diversify economic activities and livelihood sources for Punjab’s growing younger generation, which is a positive economic outcome.

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