|
|
 |
|
The water and energy availability in India and water storage in spite of 4,500 dams is only for 90 days even though the entire rainfall occurring in just 100 hrs in a year. This is in contrast to developed countries like USA and Russia where the storage is for 2 years and 3 years respectively. India’s greatest advantage is the availability and demand being just the opposite in time. Where there is surplus in one part, there is a greater demand in the other part. This is in respect of water as well as energy. Therefore transfer of surplus in respect of water and energy are essential. Whereas energy transfer can be reasonably developed as it is invisible, there are many challenges for water transfer mainly because of visibility and many times misplaced zeal in non- development. The differential for visibility and non visibility could be seen in connection with depletion of ground water. Almost 30% of total energy produced is used for pumping ground water for irrigation endangering the environment. On the other hand, if surface water could be provided, this energy could be saved and at the same time, problems associated withdepletion like health etc. could be avoided. However, the opposition is more for surface water provision rather than the depletion of ground water. In spite of all the apprehensions, India has increased its forest cover by 20% in the last 3 to 4 years. This is also mainly due to efforts made and funding provided by the Energy Sector specially the power sector. We have to keep in mind the short duration of 100 hours when the entire water of 400 M.ha.m, is available in a year. Because of the non-availability of storage capacity which is hardly for 90 days, implies, any variation in the monsoon would have a great impact on our food production. < If you see the world situation, the developed countries are those that have developed their water resources for irrigation and specially the hydropower.As could be seen in countries like Brazil and India the parts of the country that have storage and utilized the water for irrigation have developed much more than the rest of the country. India has to therefore take a pragmatic view and develop the water resources fast for irrigation and energy.
For Suggestions, Participations & Nominations, Membership, Publications, Cds Please Contact at : Mr. C.V.J.Varma, President Council of Power Utilities A-2/158, Janakpuri, New Delhi-110058, India, Tel : 91-1125618472, 65455626, Fax : 25611622, Email : cvjvarma@gmail.com , cvjvarma@indiapower.org Web : www.indiapower.org |
