Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project Update: MPKC Link Finalised, DPR Submitted for Appraisal

The Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP), now integrated into the Modified Parbati–Kalisindh–Chambal (MPKC) Link, continues to move through key administrative and technical stages. The MPKC link proposal was formulated after extensive consultations between Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh to optimise the water resources of the Chambal river system. It combines the Kuno, Parbati, and Kalisindh sub-basin components proposed by Madhya Pradesh with the ERCP components submitted by Rajasthan.

A major breakthrough came with the signing of an MoU on 28 January 2024, followed by a formal Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on 5 December 2024 between Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and the Union Government for joint implementation of the link project.

The Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the Rajasthan components have been completed and are currently under techno-economic appraisal by the Central Water Commission (CWC) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti.

However, the Ministry has clarified that ERCP is not under consideration for inclusion as a National Project at present. Any such inclusion would require compliance with existing guidelines, inter-ministerial consultations, appraisal by competent authorities, and availability of funds.

The integration of ERCP into the MPKC link is expected to streamline planning across both states, but final implementation will depend on approvals and funding under Union Government policy frameworks.