Maharashtra launches new scheme to fast-track river desilting projects

The Maharashtra state government has announced plans to speed up desilting works across rivers and nalas. A new dedicated scheme will be introduced to address delays and improve efficiency. The move aims to tackle heavy silt buildup that disrupts water flow and reduces storage capacity in key districts. A recent meeting reviewed the causes of delays in desilting projects. Officials examined approval bottlenecks, rules on silt removal, and local challenges hindering progress. Soil and Water Conservation Minister Sanjay Rathod, Minister of State for Relief and Rehabilitation Ashish Jaiswal, and senior officers from the Revenue and Water Conservation departments attended the discussion.

Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule directed officials to draft a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for desilting in Nagpur and Amravati. This SOP will ensure more effective and time-bound execution of works. Additionally, the government will delegate necessary administrative powers to District Collectors to accelerate decision-making at the local level.

Desilting is vital for water conservation, groundwater recharge, and flood prevention. The new scheme and delegated powers aim to address these critical needs. The state government will soon roll out the new scheme for nala desilting. A separate SOP will guide the process, while District Collectors will gain powers to implement works more efficiently. These measures are expected to improve water management and reduce flood risks in affected areas.