These are those river valley projects that serve multiple purposes such as irrigation, hydroelectric power generation and drinking water supply. Dams are built across rivers. These are big reservoirs that store river and rainwater that is used for generating hydroelectricity and for irrigation.
Major Multi-purpose Projects of India:
- Bhakra Nangal Project on Sutluj River.
- Hirakud Project on river Mahanadi.
- Narmada Valley Project on Narmada River.
- Damodar Valley Project on Damodar River.
Advantages of Multi-purpose Projects:
- Multipurpose projects provide water for irrigation of crops.
- Multipurpose projects also provide the facility for afforestation and conservation of soil from erosion.
- They control the flood in the river. Damodar River was called ‘Sorrow of Bengal’. Now, it is a blessing for that region.
- Hydroelectricity, the cheapest source of emery, is produced from multipurpose projects. About 22% of electricity comes from this source in India.
- Canals and reservoir can also be used for water transportation and fisheries.
Disadvantages of Multi-purpose Projects:
- Fertile agricultural land submerged under the river water.
- Forest land are either cleared or submerged under water. It is great loss for environment.
- Large no of people are displaced. They have to leave their own houses and properties.
- Siltation in the dam reduces the lifespan of the project.
- Big Multipurpose projects can result into minor earthquakes.
