A “National Framework on Sediment Management (NFSM), October 2022” has been published by Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, for comprehensive and holistic management of sediment in rivers, stream including reservoirs sedimentation. It emphasises on reducing silt generation rather than silt removal.
The NFSM is a guiding document for handling the issues of sediment management across the river basins of the country including Punjab, and to assist various stakeholders such as State Governments/UTs, Ministries, and Departments in formulating strategies and executing projects with due consideration for environmental and ecological factors. NFSM also includes the relevant references of existing guidelines/notifications issued by departments/ministries of central agencies.

Desilting of rivers is not considered a technically viable solution for flood control as it can marginally minimize the magnitude of floods and is effective only for a short period. Selective dredging in specific reaches such as tidal rivers, confluence points with narrow constrictions, etc., sometimes may have to be undertaken based upon local site conditions; however, the same should be backed by proper scientific study.

Flood management and anti-erosion schemes are formulated and implemented by concerned State Governments as per their priority. The Union Government supplements the efforts of the States by providing technical guidance and also promotional financial assistance for management of floods in critical areas.

Government of India is implementing "Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP)” for providing Central Assistance to States for works related to river management, flood control, anti-erosion, drainage development, anti-sea erosion, etc. A total Central Assistance of Rs 8737.66 Crore has been released to the States/UTs since the inception of the scheme including a Central Assistance of Rs 67.51 Crore to the State Govt. of Punjab.

The information was provided by THE MINISTER OF JAL SHAKTI SHRI C R PATIL in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

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ND

(Rajya Sabha SQ 161)

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