Resolve Inter-State Water Disputes Through Cooperation, Says PM Modi
PM reviews Rs 30,000 crore infrastructure projects, pushes faster implementation and integrated water management
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday called on states to resolve inter-state water disputes through cooperation and coordinated action while chairing the 51st meeting of the PRAGATI platform.
Reviewing major infrastructure and development initiatives, the Prime Minister stressed the need for quicker approvals, regular monitoring through technology and time bound execution of public projects. He said delays in implementation not only escalate costs but also deprive citizens of essential services.
During the meeting, Modi reviewed seven major projects related to railways, roads and the power sector spread across nine states, involving an investment of nearly Rs 30,000 crore.
Referring to the Ken-Betwa river linking initiative, the Prime Minister said the project should become a model for resolving water-sharing challenges in other regions. He urged states to explore similar projects focusing on river interlinking, water conservation, groundwater recharge and efficient irrigation practices for long term water security.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of integrated planning in the water sector and suggested installing solar panels over canal networks to reduce evaporation, save land and generate renewable energy simultaneously.
While reviewing the power sector, Modi called for rapid expansion of rooftop solar systems in cities, housing colonies and public institutions. During discussions on transport infrastructure, he said the upcoming Vadhavan Port should be developed as an integrated logistics and transport hub.
The meeting also assessed the progress of Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0. Modi said the mission should move beyond infrastructure creation and focus on measurable outcomes through effective monitoring, public participation and coordination among stakeholders. He directed states to accelerate the construction of waste-processing units and GOBARdhan plants.
PRAGATI, an ICT-based governance platform, aims to improve coordination between the Centre and states for faster implementation of key projects and programmes.
The Prime Minister further instructed ministries, departments and state governments to adopt a proactive and deadline-driven approach to remove bottlenecks and ensure timely completion of projects. Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan said the review mechanism is intended to strengthen accountability and speed up implementation at district and state levels across the country.
