Daily Current Affairs : 23-August-2023

In recent news, the Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLCIL), a Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE), has made a significant announcement regarding the permanent diversion of the Paravanar river course. This decision has stirred discussions and raised concerns, as it carries potential impacts on both the environment and the communities dependent on the river. In this essay, we will delve into the details of this development, shedding light on the Paravanar River’s significance and the reasons behind this diversion.

The Paravanar River: A Geographical Overview

The Paravanar River is situated within the Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu, and it constitutes the second smallest river basin in the state. Its basin takes the shape of a leaf and is bordered by the Pennaiyar river basin to the north, the Vellar river basin to the south and west, and the Bay of Bengal to the east. The Paravanar River is unique in that it is seasonal and ephemeral, meaning its water flow fluctuates throughout the year.

The Need for Diversion

The decision to permanently divert the Paravanar River has not been taken lightly. There are several compelling reasons behind this move, which include:

  1. Mitigating Threats to Villages and Agricultural Lands: One of the primary motivations for the diversion is the protection of villages and agricultural lands situated along the river’s course. In the past, the Paravanar River posed a constant threat during its sporadic flooding, causing damage to homes and crops.
  2. Enhancing Safety: By rerouting the river, NLCIL aims to enhance safety for the communities living nearby. The seasonal nature of the river makes it unpredictable, which, in turn, increases the risk to human lives.
  3. Improved Water Management: Diverting the Paravanar River allows for better water resource management. This can aid in providing a more consistent supply of water for agricultural and industrial purposes, reducing the dependence on erratic seasonal flows.
Concerns and Environmental Implications

While the decision to divert the Paravanar River brings potential benefits, it is not without its concerns and environmental implications. Some of the key issues include:

  1. Ecological Impact: Altering the course of a river can disrupt the local ecosystem. Fish populations and other aquatic life may be affected, and the balance of the ecosystem could be disturbed.
  2. Silt Deposition: When a river’s course is changed, there is a risk of increased silt deposition in the new channel. This can reduce the river’s capacity and create difficulties in maintaining a consistent flow.
  3. Community Displacement: The diversion might necessitate the displacement of communities living along the original course of the river. Proper rehabilitation and compensation measures must be in place to address this concern.

Important Points:

Reasons for Diversion:

  • Mitigating threats to villages and agricultural lands.
  • Enhancing safety for nearby communities.
  • Improving water resource management.

Geographical Overview:

  • Paravanar River is in Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu.
  • It’s the second smallest river basin in Tamil Nadu.
  • Bordered by Pennaiyar, Vellar, and the Bay of Bengal.
  • The river’s flow is seasonal and ephemeral.

Environmental Concerns:

  • Potential ecological impact on local ecosystems.
  • Risk of increased silt deposition in the new channel.
  • Concerns about community displacement.
Why In News

Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLCIL), a Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE), has officially unveiled its ambitious project to permanently divert the course of the Paravanar River. The river, once a looming menace to the communities and fertile farmlands in its vicinity, is now set to bring about transformative changes in the region.

MCQs about The Paravanar River Diversion Decision

  1. What is the unique characteristic of the Paravanar River?
    A. It is a glacier-fed river.
    B. It flows year-round without seasonal changes.
    C. Its water flow is seasonal and ephemeral.
    D. It is the largest river basin in Tamil Nadu.
    Correct Answer: C. Its water flow is seasonal and ephemeral.
    Explanation: The Paravanar River is seasonal and ephemeral, meaning its water flow fluctuates throughout the year.
  2. What key consideration should be taken into account when implementing the Paravanar River diversion?
    A. Maximizing economic benefits without regard for the environment.
    B. Ensuring responsible execution and community sensitivity.
    C. Rapidly displacing communities living near the river.
    D. Focusing solely on ecological preservation.
    Correct Answer: B. Ensuring responsible execution and community sensitivity.
    Explanation: The importance of responsible execution and sensitivity to community needs when implementing the Paravanar River diversion, striking a balance between development and environmental preservation.
  3. What is a potential environmental concern associated with the permanent diversion of a river?
    A. Increased availability of water for local ecosystems.
    B. The risk of enhanced silt deposition in the new channel.
    C. Improved habitats for aquatic life.
    D. Reduced agricultural productivity.
    Correct Answer: B. The risk of enhanced silt deposition in the new channel.
    Explanation: The risk of increased silt deposition in the new channel as an environmental concern associated with river diversion.

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