Why in the News?

Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh will soon sign a new agreement to implement the modified Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP), linking the Parvati, Kali Sindh and Chambal rivers to address long-term water needs in 13 districts of eastern Rajasthan.

About ERCP

• It is an ambitious drinking and irrigation water project that was introduced by the Rajasthan government in the 2017-18 budget.
• Aim: To providefor long-term solution to the water issues faced by 13 districts in eastern Rajasthan.
  • 13 Districts includes Jhalawar, Baran, Kota Bundi, Sawai Madhopur, Ajmer, Tok, Jaipur, Dausa, Karauli, Alwar, Bharatpur and Dholpur.
• It is planned to meet drinking and industrial water needs of the southern and southeastern Rajasthan, for humans and Livestock till the year 2051.

About Chambal River

• It is one of the cleanest rivers in India.
• Origin: At Singar Chouri peak, Vindhya Mountains, Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
• Flows north for 346 km in Madhya Pradesh and then north-east for 225 km in Rajasthan.
• Enters Uttar Pradesh, flowing 32 km before joining the Yamuna in Etawah District.
• Rainfed river bounded by Vindhyan mountain ranges and Aravallis.
• Drains the Malwa region of northwestern Madhya Pradesh.
• Hadauti plateau in Rajasthan is in the upper catchment area southeast of Mewar Plains.
• Tributaries: Banas, Kali Sindh, Sipra, Parbati.
• Major dams: Gandhi Sagar Dam, Rana Pratap Sagar Dam, Jawahar Sagar Dam, Kota Barrage.
• National Chambal Sanctuary is located at the tri-junction of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.
  • The sanctuary is home to the critically endangered gharial, red-crowned roof turtle, and endangered Ganges River dolphin.