The Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP), eagerly awaited by millions in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, is set to materialize soon. A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the joint Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the project was signed on Sunday at the Ministry of Labour and Employment in New Delhi, with the presence of Union Minister of Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav.
The signing ceremony included the Secretary of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Debasree Mukherjee, Chief Secretaries of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh – Abhay Kumar and Dr. Rajesh Kumar Rajora, respectively. Chief Minister Bhajanlal emphasized the significance of ERCP as an ambitious project for both Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. In light of the project’s importance, a consensus was reached between the two state governments and the central government to create a joint DPR.
Speaking on the historic occasion, Chief Minister Bhajanlal highlighted the comprehensive development that would result from the Revised Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project (ERCP) in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The project, a product of the proactive approach and work style of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signifies the commitment of the central and state governments. Chief Minister Bhajanlal expressed confidence that ERCP would herald a golden era, contributing to the all-round development of both states.
Chief Minister Bhajanlal outlined the scope of ERCP, noting that it would ensure drinking water availability in 13 districts of eastern Rajasthan, including Jhalawar, Baran, Kota, Bundi, Sawai Madhopur, Karauli, Dholpur, Bharatpur, Dausa, Alwar, Jaipur, Ajmer, and Tonk. Furthermore, the project would secure water availability for irrigation in approximately 2,80,000 hectares of the state. He highlighted the far-reaching impact on nearly 25 lakh farmer families in the 13 districts, with about 40% of the state’s population gaining access to drinking water.
Chief Minister Bhajanlal underscored ERCP’s potential to boost agricultural production, increase farmers’ income, and create employment opportunities. Additionally, the project’s water supply would cater to industrial needs in the upcoming areas. He also acknowledged the previous government’s efforts to complete projects like refineries and ERCP, ensuring that the benefits of these initiatives reach the people.
It is worth noting that on December 13, 2022, the central government approved the integration of the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project with ERCP, prioritizing the link project. The signing of the MOU marks a significant step towards realizing ERCP, bringing hope for sustainable water management and agricultural prosperity in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
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