Submergence Analysis Using Geo-Informatics Technology for Proposed Dam Reservoirs of Par-Tapi-Narmada River Link Project, Gujarat State, India

Abstract

The Par-Tapi-Narmada river link envisages transfer of surplus water from west flowing rivers between Par and Tapi in Gujarat State, India to water deficit areas in North Gujarat. The scheme is located mainly in southern Gujarat but it also covers part of the areas of Maharashtra, North of Mumbai on the Western Ghats of India. The main aim of Par-Tapi-Narmada link is to transfer the surplus waters of Par, Auranga, Ambica and Purna River basins to take over part of Narmada Canal command (Miyagam branch) after providing enroute irrigation. It is proposed that water saved in Sardar Sarovar Project, as a result of this transfer, would be taken further northwards to benefit water scarce areas of north Gujarat and also westwards in Saurashtra and Kutch regions. The construction of seven reservoirs on Par-Tapi-Narmada River Link Project would affect land use/land cover, settlements and infrastructure facilities within and around reservoir area. Thus, the submergence impact analysis of all the seven reservoirs of this project have been carried out by using remote sensing and GIS techniques for planning and designing of the structures. Out of the seven reservoirs, the paper discusses submergence analysis of Kelwan Dam reservoir which is located in geologically complex region of the Dangs district. The study attempts to assess the present problems of submergence of land, forest, agriculture, settlements and infrastructure facilities by using GIS techniques for taking alternative remedial measures prior and during construction of the dams.