Maharashtra Water Resources

Department-Vision 2020 Report

Water Resources Department

Government of Maharashtra

Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

Government of Maharashtra
Water Resources Department

Vision-2020
This is a draft report. It is requested to submit your
comments / suggestions toDr. Sanjay Belsare - belsare.sanjay@gmail.com
Mr. Pravin Kolhe - pravinkolhe82@gmail.com
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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

MESSAGE from Honble CM

MESSAGE from Honble DCM
MESSAGE from Honble Minister, MWRD
MESSAGE from Honble PS (WR)
MESSAGE from Honble PS (CAD)

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

Contents
1.

WATER-CHANGING COURSE OF FUTURE IN MAHARASHTRA .............................. 4

1.1

SALIENT FEATURES OF WATER SCENARIO .............................................. 4

1.1.1 Global Level: .............................................................................. 4

1.1.2 National Level ............................................................................ 4
1.1.3 State Level ................................................................................ 4
1.2

KEY CHALLENGES IN WATER SECTOR ................................................... 5

1.3

ABOUT MAHARASHTRA WATER RESOURCES DEPARTMENT .......................... 6

1.3.1 About State of Maharashtra ............................................................ 6

1.3.2 About Maharashtra Water Resources Department ................................. 6
1.3.3 Organisational Structure of MWRD .................................................... 7
1.4

DEVELOPMENT EFFORTS IN THE PAST .................................................. 8

1.5

CHALLENGES BEFORE WATER RESOURCES DEPARTMENT............................ 8

1.6

SWOT ANALYSIS ............................................................................ 10

1.7

WAY FORWARD: ............................................................................ 10

2. LOOKING AHEAD TO THE FUTURE-VISION FOR MWRD ...................................... 11

3.

2.1

NEED FOR VISION-2020 OF MWRD ...................................................... 11

2.2

APPROACH TO VISION DEVELOPMENT .................................................. 12

2.3

VISION STATEMENT ........................................................................ 13

2.4

MISSION STATEMENTS ....................................................................... 14

SECTORIAL PLANS ............................................................................... 15

3.1

Socio-Economic Development of State .................................................. 15

3.2

Welfare of Society, State and Nation .................................................... 15

3.3

Construction of WR Projects .............................................................. 16

3.4

Improving Water Use Efficiency .......................................................... 17

3.5

Renovation and Improvement of Old Projects .......................................... 18

3.6

Hydro Power Development ................................................................ 18

3.7

Institutional Restructuring and Reforms ................................................. 19

3.8

Research and Development ............................................................... 19

3.9

Human Resources Development .......................................................... 20

3.10

E-Governance .............................................................................. 20

Members of Study Groups:- ......................................................................... 22

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

1. WATER-CHANGING COURSE OF FUTURE IN MAHARASHTRA

1.1 SALIENT FEATURES OF WATER SCENARIO
1.1.1 Global Level:
Water seems over-abundant on this planet as three quarters of its area is
covered by water. The 1400 million km3 of water so present can cover the entire
area of the earth to a depth of 3000 meters. However, around 98% of the water
is in the oceans. Only 2.7% is fresh water; of this 75% lies frozen in the polar
regions; 22.6 % is present as groundwater, some of which lies too deep; only a
small fraction is to be found in rivers, lakes, atmosphere, soil, vegetation and
exploitable underground aquifers, and this is what constitutes the fresh water
resources of the world. Annually, 3,00,000 km3 of precipitation takes place over
the oceans, and 1,00,000 km3 over land; evapo-transpiration from land is 60,000
km3, 40,000 km3 runs off from land to sea, and 3,40,000 km3 evaporate from the
seas. This is the annual hydrological cycle. It is this run-off of 40,000 km3 that is
said to form the fresh water resources available to us.
1.1.2 National Level
India is second largest populated country in the world consisting of more than
a sixth of the world population with just 2.4% of worlds total area. India
constitutes around 16.5% of the world population, whereas the share of water
resources is just 4%. The main source of water is annual precipitation including
snowfall and it has been estimated to be of the order of 4,000 km3. More than
half of that returns to atmosphere by evaporation and seepage in to the ground.
The balance water resource which occurs as natural run off in the rivers is
estimated at 1,869 km3 considering both surface and groundwater. Due to various
constraints, such as topography and uneven distribution of water over space and
time, it has been estimated that only about 1,123 km3 can be put to beneficial
use, out of which only 690 km3 is surface water and the rest 433 km3 is ground
water. A total storage capacity of about 225 km3 has been created in the country
as a result of construction of major & medium projects. The Projects under
construction will contribute to additional 64 km3 while the contribution expected
from proposed projects is 107 km3. Thus likely storage available will be 396 km 3
once the projects under construction and proposed are completed against the
total water availability of 1869 km3 in the river basins of the country. (CWC,
2010)
1.1.3 State Level
The average water availability in the state of Maharashtra is 163.82 km3.
According to inter-state water tribunal awards, the allotted quantity of water to
the state is 125.94 km3. Out of the five major river basin systems, 55% of the
dependable yield is available in the four river basins (Krishna, Godavari, Tapi and
Narmada) east of the Western Ghats. These four river basins comprise 92% of the
cultivable land and more than 60% of the population in rural areas. Balanced 45%
of state's water resources are from West Flowing Rivers which are mainly
monsoon specific rivers emanating from the Ghats and draining into the Arabian
Sea, which is not utilised due to geological constraints. However state aggregates
and averages are misleading figures as there is wide variation, both temporal and

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

spatial in the availability of water in the state. Much of the rainfall occurs within
a period of a few months during a year, and even during that period the intensity
is concentrated within a few weeks.
Following table provides important statistics regarding river basin wise water
resources of the state.
Sr
.
N
o.

Name of
the River
Basin

Geograp
hical
Area
(Mha)

1
2
3
4
5

Godawari
Tapi
Narmada
Krishna
West
Flowing
Rivers
Maharash
tra

15.43
5.12
0.16
7.01
3.16

Percen
tage of
State's
Cultura
ble
Area
(Mha)
49.5
16.7
0.5
22.6
10.7

30.88

100

Cultur
able
Area
(Mha)

Averag
e
Annual
availab
ility

75%
depend
able
Yield
(MCM)

11.25
3.73
0.03
5.63
1.86

50880
9118
580
34032
69210

37300
6977
315
28371
58599

28.35
5.3
0.24
21.56
44.55

Permiss
ible
use as
per
Tribun
als
(Mcm)
34185
5415
308
16818
69210

22.5

163820

131562

100

125936

1.2

Percen
tage
w.r.t.
State

KEY CHALLENGES IN WATER SECTOR

In the above context, it is needless to explain the importance of water, which
is the lifeblood for the existence of life on this earth. It can be a matter of life
and death, depending on how it occurs and how it is managed. If it is managed
properly, it can act as instrument for economic and social survival. Water ensures
food security, feeds livestock, maintains organic life and fulfils domestic and
industrial needs. Besides the engineering and scientific angle, the present water
situation has political, legal, environmental, social, economic and even religious
connotations. The increasing gap between demand and availability of water is
becoming a crucial issue which divides people in to haves and have not in
every nation. Further, to add pressure, apart from geographical demarcations,
water divided people from urban and rural, rich and poor. Without efficient
water management and optimum utilisation of this essential, scarce and valuable
commodity, our ecosystem will experience water crisis in future due to increasing
water demand verses decreasing per capita water availability. The Climate
Change is expected to worsen the situation.
As an attempt to resolve the water scarcity issue and minimize temporal and
spatial variations it is necessary to propose either storing of river waters in
reservoirs behind large dams to transfer water from the season of abundance to
that of scarcity, or long-distance water transfers from `surplus areas to watershort areas which constitutes supply side solutions. On the other hand, there are
demand side solution, i.e. to optimise demand by efficient water management.
In this era, it is necessary to concentrate on supply as well as demand side
solutions.
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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

1.3 ABOUT MAHARASHTRA WATER RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

1.3.1 About State of Maharashtra
Maharashtra occupies the western and central part of the India and has a long
coastline stretching nearly 720 kilometres along the Arabian Sea. The Sahyadri
mountain ranges provide a physical backbone to the State on the west, while the
Satpuda hills along the north and Bhamragad-Chiroli-Gaikhuri ranges on the east
serve as its natural borders. The State is surrounded by Gujarat to the north west,
Madhya Pradesh to the north, Chhattisgarh to the east, Andhra Pradesh to the
south east and Karnataka to the south and Goa to the south west.
Maharashtra is the second largest state in India both in terms of population
and geographical area (3.08 lakh sq. km.). The State has a population of 11.24
crore (Census 2011) which is 9.3 per cent of the total population of nation. The
State is highly urbanised with 45.2 per cent people residing in urban areas. The
State has 35 districts which are divided into six revenue divisions viz. Konkan,
Pune, Nashik, Aurangabad, Amravati and Nagpur for administrative purposes. The
State has a long tradition of having statutory bodies for planning at the district
level. For local self-governance in rural areas, there are 33 Zilla Parishads, 351
Panchayat Samitis and 27,906 Gram Panchayats. The urban areas are governed
through 26 Municipal Corporations, 219 Municipal Councils, 7 Nagar Panchayats
and 7 Cantonment Boards.
The gross state domestic product (GSDP) at current prices for 2011-12 is
estimated at 11,99,548 crore and contributes about 14.4 per cent of the GDP.
The GSDP has been growing at a rapid pace over the last few years. Presently
industrial and services sector both together contribute about 87.1 per cent of
the States income. The agriculture & allied activities sector contributes 12.9 per
cent to the States income. Out of total geographical area of 308 lakh ha, state
has 225 lakh hectares of land under cultivation and area under forest is 52.1 lakh
hectares. According to the Water and Irrigation Commission Report, the ultimate
irrigation potential of the state is estimated as 126 lakh ha, including 85 lakh ha
from surface water and 41 lakh ha from ground water.
The State enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, the hot scorching summer from
March onwards yields to the rainy monsoon in early June. The rich green cover
persists with mild winter during monsoon season that follows through an
unpleasant October transition. The seasonal rains from the western sea-clouds
are very heavy and the rainfall is over 400 cm on the Sahyadrian crests. The
Konkan on the windward side is also endowed with heavy rainfall, declining
northwards. East of the Sahyadri, the rainfall diminishes to a meagre 70 cm in
the western plateau districts, with Solapur-Ahmednagar lying in the heart of the
dry zone. The rains increase slightly, later in the season, eastwards in the
Marathwada and Vidarbha regions.
1.3.2 About Maharashtra Water Resources Department
Water is included in the state list (List 2) of 7 th schedule of the Constitution
of India except inter-state rivers and river valleys. All activities related to
planning, development and management of water resources are undertaken by
the respective states. All surface water management related activities in the
State of Maharashtra are managed by Water Resources Department (WRD).

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

The Water Resources Department (formerly known as Irrigation Department)

has a glorious history of Irrigation and Water Management over last 150 years.
The MWRD came into existence in 1867 as a separate organisation under Public
Works Department during British era. The state of Maharashtra came into
existence in the year 1960 after bifurcation of old Bombay State into Maharashtra
and Gujarat. In the year 1960 the Public Works Department was divided into
Irrigation Department and Building and Communication Department. On 26
October 2004, Irrigation Department is renamed as Water Resources
Department resembling the importance of water as a scare resource.
The Water Resources Department is entrusted with survey, investigation,
design, construction, maintenance and management of water resources and
hydropower projects in the river basins of the state. It also undertakes command
area development programmes, water drainage schemes, research activities,
training, dam safety, quality control, hydrology data collection and analysis,
Kharbhumi schemes etc.
Till 2012, department constructed 3332 water resources project and thereby
created water storage capacity of 33385 Mcum and irrigation potential of 48.61
lakh ha across state.
1.3.3 Organisational Structure of MWRD
The activities of department are allotted to by Minister, WRD (except
MKVDC), Minister (MKVDC) and Minister (Kharland). Further, Minister (WR & CAD)
and State Minister (Kharland) lead their assigned portfolio. From administrative
side, Principal Secretary (WR) and Principal Secretary (CADA) are responsible for
the functioning of the organisation. At field level, there are five corporations
headed by Executive Director which caters all activities related to water
resources projects. These corporations are1) Maharashtra Krishna Valley Development Corporation, Pune,
2) Godavari Marathwada Irrigation Development Corporation, Aurangabad,
3) Tapi Irrigation Development Corporation, Jalgaon,
4) Vidarbha Irrigation Development Corporation, Nagpur &
5) Konkan Irrigation Development Corporation, Thane
Further, in order to augment research, design, training, quality control etc.
allied activities, there are two renowned organisations under WRD headed by
Director General and these organisations are1) Maharashtra Engineering Research Institute, (MERI) Nashik
2) Water And Land Management Institute, (WALMI) Aurangabad
In order to promote hydropower, following regional offices are established
under WRD1) Chief Engineer (Civil), Hydropower Project, Pune
2) Chief Engineer (Electrical), Hydropower Project, Mumbai
Separate Mechanical organisation is entrusted with the works related to earth
work, LIS, gates, etc. under Chief Engineer (Mechanical), Nasik.
Other prominent organisations under MWRD are Hydrology Projects,
Maharashtra Water Resource Development Centre, Maharashtra Engineering
Training Academy, Central Design Organization, Dam Safety Organization,
Directorate of Irrigation Development and Research, Quality Control and
Vigilance units.
In nutshell, following table gives number of offices under MWRDPage 7 of 22

Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

Sr. No.
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
10)

Name of Office
Principal Secretary
Corporations headed by Executive Director
Organisations headed by Director General
Regions headed by Chief Engineer
Organisations headed by Chief Engineer
Circles headed by Superintending Engineer
Divisions headed by Executive Engineer
Sub-divisions headed by Deputy Engineer
Sections headed by Sectional Engineer
Allied offices
Total

No. of Offices
2
5
2
11
6
71
325
1317
464
21
2224

1.4

DEVELOPMENT EFFORTS IN THE PAST

Here, it would not be out of place to enumerate a few highlights regarding
irrigation development prior to independence:
a) The Phad system, a very economical method of management of irrigation
water was practiced. This system was based on the cooperation of farmers
whose fields were to be irrigated.
b) Malgujari tanks in Vidarbha were constructed about two centuries back.
c) Nira canal system was constructed way back around 1880 and is functioning
efficiently even today.
d) Dams like Khadakwasla, Darna, Bhandardara were constructed before 1926.
During Pre-plan period, only 2.74 lakh ha irrigation potential was created in
the state and till June-2012 it has been enhanced to 48.61 lakh ha with 33,385
MCum water storage capacity created through 79 major, 249 medium & 3004
minor irrigation projects.
WRD has constructed 58 hydropower projects with installed capacity of 3606
MW. The hydropower projects having installed capacity less than 25 MW are being
implemented by private partners based on Public Private Partnership. Till now,
17 such small hydro projects are completed and 76 are under development.
Maharashtra state is the pioneer in Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM).
There are successful examples of Water User's Associations (WUA) in various
parts of the State. About 1545 WUAs are registered under MMISF Act and 2920
WUAs are registered under Societies Registration Act. The Maharashtra state is
one among few states to have its own water policy, adopted in 2003. Maharashtra
Water Resources Regulatory Authority (MWRRA) Act 2005 was enacted and first
regulatory Authority in water sector in the country was established. The state is
pioneer in publishing Irrigation Status Report, Benchmarking Report and Water
Audit reports. Maharashtra is the first state after Australia who is publishing
report on benchmarking regularly.

1.5 CHALLENGES BEFORE WATER RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

The MWRD is very large organisation, dealing with the complex water issue for
the state. Till date, there are many success stories developed by the department,
but since last few years, departments is passing through crucial stage. The
challenges before Water Resources Department are as follows-

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

1) The all-round equitable socio-economic development of the state is one of

the major concern for MWRD and without water, it is not possible to promote
agriculture and industries for securing food and energy security.
2) While carrying out developmental activity thrust for MWRD is to provide
prosperity to the state through its development activities. The major
challenge in todays situation is to provide equal access to water at
reasonable cost at farthest reach to every citizen and for environment
protection.
3) The limited resources like funds, manpower and constraints like private and
forest land acquisition and rehabilitation are major hurdles in timely
completion of ongoing water resources projects. This causes time and cost
overruns and delays the development of the region as a whole. The irrigable
area in the state through surface water is about 85 Lakh ha, out of which till
June 2012, irrigation potential created on 48.61 lakh ha area. For MWRD,
target is to create additional irrigation potential on 36.39 lakh ha area to
reach its target of 85 lakh ha. Therefore completion of ongoing, proposed
water resources schemes along with inter basin water transfer scheme is a
major challenge for MWRD.
4) Declining per capita water availability due to increasing population and rising
multi-sectorial water demand for irrigation, industries and domestic water
use is causing water crisis situation in the state. In order to bridge the gap
between water availability and demand there is an urgent need for improving
the water-use efficiency of completed projects. Also, MWRD created
irrigation potential of 48.61 Lakh Ha out of which actual area irrigated in
32.35 Lakh ha, which is nearly 67%. Therefore, appropriate steps needs to be
taken to match these figures. Further there is a need to reduce seepage and
evaporation loss and promotion to recycled water in industries.
5) The department came in to existence in 1867 as a part of Public Works
Department and since then water resources projects were constructed across
the state. Now there is an urgent need of renovation and maintenance of old
projects which were constructed long ago so that their intended benefits will
be received without any interruption and disaster.
6) Electricity has become a basic need like food, cloth & shelter and it is linked
with the GDP growth of state. Conventional sources of energy are thermal &
atomic power whereas hydropower is a renewable source of energy.
Therefore it is a need of the hour to harness the potential of hydro power of
the state as state is blessed with Sahyadri range providing ideal sites for
hydro-electric projects.
7) Institutional restructuring of Water Resources Department in order to provide
better service to the citizens is one of the major challenges. The human
resource and their job specifications needs to be analysed in order to
restructure the entire Water Resources Department. Nearly 45,000 staff is
working under 1890 offices of MWRD which should be aligned to achieve a
common goal. Frequent introductions of reforms in MWRD are utmost
important in this dynamic world.
8) Water Resource sector touches many fields including engineering, geology,
social aspects, environmental issues, finance etc. In order to optimise water
use, and introduce innovative design concepts it is necessary to encourage
sustainable Research and Development in the department.
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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

9) Encouragement to human resources of department for efficient functioning

so that citizens receive quality service and at the same time human resources
are optimally utilised. This is one of the major challenge for MWRD which
needs careful evaluation to have work-life balance.
10) The development of Information and Communication Technology has enabled
improved quality of services at reasonable cost to the masses within little
time. Therefore maximum utilisation of potential of Information and
Communication Technology through e-Governance projects is important for
the department.
1.6 SWOT ANALYSIS
The Strengths-Weakness-Opportunity and Threats analysis of Water Resources
Department is carried out as follows-

Strength

Weakness

History of 150 years

Leader in Country in number of dams
Huge Infrastructure & renowned institutions
Leader in Water Reforms
Huge Technical Manpower
Young Engineers
Huge Land Assets

Outdated & complex processes & rules

Poor & one way Communication
Non uniform work distribution
Centralisation of Power
Lack of Trust & Confidence
Resistance to change
Shortage of manpower & funds

Opportunity

Threats
Growing Water Demand
Climate Change
Need to manage multi-disciplinary fields
Socil Issues like land acquistion &
rehabiliation
Limited resources
Water has political value

Awareness of precious Water Resource at all

levels
High Demand
Scope for co-operation & tie-ups
Tourism & Fishing
Hydropower
ICT Tools & Technique

1.7

WAY FORWARD:
In order to serve citizens better and contribute in the development of state
by changing the working style of Water Resources Department, following study
groups were formulated vide Government Circular dated 12/06/2013.
1) Construction of Water Resources Projects
2) Improving Water Use Efficiency
3) Renovation and Improvement of Old Projects
4) Hydro Power Development
5) Institutional restructuring and Reforms
6) Research and Development
7) Human Resources Development
8) E-Governance
Next chapter deals with the formulation of present Vision document.

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

2. LOOKING AHEAD TO THE FUTURE-VISION FOR MWRD

2.1

NEED FOR VISION-2020 OF MWRD

Like a lion who looks back with a sense of pride and self-esteem as to how
much he has achieved wondering how much remains to be conquered,
(Sinhavalokan) we need to sit back and ask ourselves, what have we done all
these years that would qualify us to be called a civilized society. Preparation of
Vision 2020 report is of paramount importance both for knowing exactly where
our department has reached and for future planning.
The Water Resources of any state and the extent to which these have been
exploited, is a major determinant of its prosperity. With great river systems,
Maharashtra is endowed with enormous water resources. These rivers, since
times immemorial, have nurtured and seeded our civilisation & culture by
providing life- giving water for sustaining agriculture, industries and domestic
needs. The Water Resources Department of Government of Maharashtra is
entrusted with survey, investigation, planning, designing, construction,
maintenance and management of water resource projects including hydropower
projects. The Department has a glorious history of 150 years and till June-2012,
it has successfully created irrigation potential of 48.25 lakh ha and a water
storage capacity of 33,385 MCum through 79 major, 249 medium & 3004 minor
irrigation projects. It also constructed 58 hydropower projects with installed
capacity of 3606 MW. The Department implemented several pioneering initiatives
including enactment of MWRRA Act, MWSIP Act, publication of State Water
Policy, and annual Benchmarking Reports, Water Audit Report and Irrigation
Status Reports. The Water Resources Department is facing challenges in
mitigating the increased expectations and demand for water by stakeholders and
serving society with its limited resources. The challenges in timely completion of
ongoing water resources project within budgeted cost, water use efficiency in
management of completed project, bridging the gap between irrigation potential
created and irrigated, renovation and maintenance of old projects, green energy
through hydro power, inadequate institutional framework, implementation of eGovernance projects, efficient and motivated human resources of department,
encouragement to research and development are the important pain areas for
the Water Resources Department.
It is the duty and responsibility of Water Resources Department to harness
the water resource of the state optimally and provide water for human and
environmental activities. The water crisis is alarming and if not addressed in
time, it will cause tension in the society. Therefore Water Resources Department
takes this opportunity to focus on this vital limited resource and provide
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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

adequate drinking water to each resident of the state, then fulfil demand of
water for agriculture, industries& environmental activities by maximizing the
water use efficiency through the use of advanced technologies.
This Vision-2020 document serves as a guide for the Water Resources
Department in order to overcome challenges and make Maharashtra state a
Sujalam-Sufalam state without any water crisis situation.
2.2

APPROACH TO VISION DEVELOPMENT

Following figure presents the approach adopted for evolving present vision
document-

Formation of
Working
Groups

Sector Wise plan

by Working
Group

Internal & external experts participated

Participatory Approach
Present State Assessment - SWOT
Quantitative & Qualitative Assessment

Brainstorming
Workshop

Finalisation of
Sectoral Concept
Notes

GR dated 12 June 2013

8 Working Groups headed by Senior
officer
Ownership of formulation of Vision
Document is with Department.

at WALMI on 28 June 2013 Participation of

Minister & Senior Officers
at WALMI on 31 Aug 2013
Challenges & Oppotunities Discussed
Future State Definition & Vision & Objectives

Meeting on 7 Aug 2013

Meeting on 17 Oct 2013
Meeting on 28 Nov 2013

Vision 2020
Report

Draft Vision Document made publically

available by 25 April 2014 for feedback
Workshop on Vision 2020 at Bhatsanagar
on 3 May 2014

In order to create the present document a bottom-up participatory approach

has been followed, which includes research, workshops, website publications,

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

and many other means for absorbing, synthesizing and disseminating knowledge.
The approach was designed to generate awareness among officers about the risks
of inaction, and to encourage innovative and lateral thinking on water-resources
problems. The ultimate goal has been to generate the commitment needed to
turn this increased awareness into effective action for the benefit of all in the
present and future generations.
Extensive research was carried out while formulating the present vision
document. Various relevant reports including a series of Water Vision 2025
exercises which were undertaken by the different countries in South Asia under
the auspices of the Global Water Partnership for the World Water Forum held at
The Hague in March 2000 were consulted. Also national vision documents like
India Water Vision, South Asia Water Vision 2025 were also studied and
appropriate modifications were made to suit the state level and national
requirements.
2.3

VISION STATEMENT
The vision for MWRD will encompass the sustainable development of the state
along with environmental protection. Since water is a concern for every living
organism, and for nature, its comprehensive and equitable distribution is of great
importance. Amidst the rising demand for water the depleting sources will be
efficiently conserved and utilised to balance all contradictory views and
competing demand for water. The vision for MWRD will be based on realistic
data, facts and an appropriate assessment of future scenarios. But it will not be
constrained by past trends at the cost of neglecting emerging opportunities for
improvement and development. Instead, the history of MWRD will act as a
bedrock for the foundation of future accomplishments. There is a need for a
drastic change in methodology, procedure, technology and in few legislations as
well, which will suit the future state of the department. The present attempt for
framing the vision statement for MWRD has been undertaken in order to inspire
the whole organization and its stakeholders in order to achieve a common goal.
The present Vision 2020 document will serve as a road map for designing and
implementing appropriate policies and strategies.
The vision statement for MWRD is,

Optimally conserve allocated water resources of the state in

sustainable, equitable and efficient manner to fulfil drinking,
irrigation, industrial and environmental needs at reasonable cost by
efficient utilisation of water using state of the art technologies, best
practices and empowered competent human resources, so as to make
MWRD a leader in Water Resources Management by 2020.

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

2.4
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)

MISSION STATEMENTS
Creation of additional irrigation potential of additional 10 lakh ha by 2020
Publication of Annual Construction Status Report
Improve water use efficiency by 20% by 2020
Policy for pipe distribution network and Micro irrigation for water intensive
crops.
Reduce gap between IP created and actual irrigation by 15% by 2020
Assessment of Irrigation through Remote Sensing & GIS.
Enforce 20% recycled water use in non irrigation sector.
Transfer of irrigation management to WUAs on 10 lakh Ha

9)

Supply of water through measuring devices & billing on volumetric basis to Water
User's Association and Metered supply to Non Irrigation users by 2015.

10)

Phase wise renovation and modernisation programme for projects & its
components with age more than 25 years will be carried out by 2020.

11)

Sedimentation study of selected projects through remote sensing, Bathometric &

other technologies by 2020 and taking appropriate measures.

12)

Revision of state water policy for inclusive growth and development of state as a
whole by 2015.

13)

Carry out phase-wise Government Process Reengineering by 2016, keeping

special attention to Institutional restructuring & reforms

14)

Water Resources Management through real time information system.

15)

Preparation of master plan for real time flood forecasting and management
including integrated operation of reservoirs for each river basin by 2016.

16)

Launch integrated river basin management for Upper Godavari basin by 2015 &
other basins by 2020

17)

Empower River Basin Agencies and strengthen institutions.

18)

Trap maximum hydro potential of the state to meet peak power requirement and
promote PPP policy for development of hydro project.

19)

Coordination with line departments like Agriculture, GSDA, Water Supply, MoWR
for improving water use efficiency and productivity.

20)

Establishing Technology Approval Mechanism for seamless introduction and

implementation of new technology in the organisation by 2015.

21)

Anytime, anywhere service through e-Governance and Empowered & Competent

HR for sustainable development of WR

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

3. SECTORIAL PLANS
3.1

Socio-Economic Development of State

Sustainable and equitable access to quality water to meet the basic needs of
all stakeholders, including environmental concerns.
Conservation, storage, management, distribution recycling and reuse of water
for food and energy security of the state.
Formation of Water Quality Mission for monitoring water quality and
consequently adopt appropriate measures through coordination with other line
agencies by 2015.
Revision of state water policy for inclusive growth and development of state as
a whole by 2015.
Formulation of Integrated State Water Plan by 2015
Launch integrated river basin management piloted in upper Godavari sub basin
by 2015 and phase wise upscale in other sub basins by 2020.
Development of effective and sustainable strategies for addressing natural and
man-made water-resources problems, water related disasters, including
climate variability and change;
Preparation of master plan for real time flood forecasting and management
including integrated operation of reservoirs for each river basin by 2016.
Encouragement to water-tourism and evolution of a business model through
Public Private Partnership for eco-friendly and cost-effective tourism facilities
at reservoir.

3.2

Welfare of Society, State and Nation

Review of Citizen Charter for farmers by 2014.

Special attention to weaker sections of societies including tribals and

marginalised groups, drought prone areas, flood prone areas and hilly areas.
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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

Ascertainment of improvement in standard of living of project affected persons

through participation and treating them as vital stakeholders.
Enhancement of public awareness and commitment among all stakeholders for
sustainable water-resources management, including the mainstreaming of
gender issues and youth concerns and the use of participatory approaches.
Encouragement of an increase role of women in decision making regarding water
use through Water User's Association.
Conflict Resolution mechanism for minimizing conflicts and litigations including
inter-state water dispute by co-operation and participatory decision making.
Appropriate measures to Promote transparency, effective governance and
decentralised management.

3.3

Construction of WR Projects

Publication of annual Construction Status Report on lines of Irrigation Status

Report by 2015.
Completion of ongoing irrigation projects in the state in phase wise manner till
2020 to create additional irrigation potential of 10 lakh ha from current 48.61
lakh ha, by completing ---- projects having storage capacity of ____ Mcum.
Focus on techno-economical solution with quality product.
Prioritisation of ongoing projects and project components for completion.
Promotion of closed conduit pipe distribution network and micro irrigation in
command area of ongoing projects with the aim of curbing losses and improving
water-use efficiency.
Evolution of mechanism for efficient planning, executing and monitoring of
projects to avoid time and cost overruns.
Laying emphasis for availing fund from centrally sponsored schemes like AIBP,
PM Package, National Agricultural Development Schemes, National Projects etc.
for raising funds for completion of ongoing projects.
Devising mechanisms like Public Private Partnership for raising fund.
Modified methodology for approval and execution of new projects by 2017.

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

3.4

Improving Water Use Efficiency

Acceptance of water as valuable, finite, renewable and shared resource and

encouragement of maximum water use efficiency in domestic, industrial and
irrigation sector.
Promotion to appropriate demand and supply side solutions for mitigating water
needs of stakeholders.
Improving water use efficiency by 20% by 2020.
Policy for closed conduit pipe distribution network and Micro irrigation (Drip &
Sprinkler etc.) in 100% command area having water intensive crops.
Policy and appropriate measures for minimising evaporation losses.
Coordinated development and management of surface and ground water by
promoting conjunctive use.
Reducing gap between IP created and actual irrigation by 15% by 2020.
Review of planned and existing water planning, crop pattern and take
appropriate measures.
Enforce 20% recycled water use in non irrigation sector.
Implementation of various measures and tools like water auditing,
benchmarking, regulation, improved operation and management techniques,
capacity building and communication for improved water use efficiency.
Co-ordination with various line department agricultural, GSDA etc. so as to
optimize water use.
Empower Water User's Association and form additional 3000 Water User's
Association and make them operational by 2020 to manage 10 lakh ha area.
Supply of water through measuring devices & billing on volumetric basis to Water
User's Association and Metered supply to Non Irrigation users by 2015.
Appropriate fund for maintenance of projects, canal networks and assets to
supply right quantity of water at right time.
Canal automation and real time data collection for specific projects till 2020.
Assessment of Irrigation through Remote Sensing & GIS.
Improve drainage and minimise ill effects of over-irrigation.

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

3.5

Phase wise renovation and modernisation programme for major, medium and
minor projects & components with age more than 25 years will be carried out
by 2020.
0.5% of budgeted fund will be reserved for renovation of projects and maximum
utilisation of fund from convergence of various available schemes like- RRR,
CADWM, Finance Commission, MNEREGA, NABARD etc.
Detailed study on reduction in storage capacity through sedimentation study of
selected projects through remote sensing, Bathometric & other technologies by
2020 and taking appropriate measures.
Policy for planned and unplanned Carry over storage, sustainable maintenance
of Lift Irrigation Schemes and hydraulic audit of existing canals will be
formulated by 2015.
Restoration of projects having seepage problems.

3.6

Renovation and Improvement of Old Projects

Hydro Power Development

Completion and operation of three ongoing hydro power projects by 2017 to

create installed capacity of 105 MW.
Preparation of DPR and AA to 6 proposed PSS having surplus off-peak power to
add 4850 MW in addition to existing 3614 MW by 2020.
Trap maximum hydro potential of the state to meet peak power requirement.
Promote PPP in development of Hydro Projects / PSS by acting as a service
provider by appropriate PPP Policy by 2015.
Special attention to renovation of old hydro projects and lease agreements.

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

3.7

To develop WRD extensively through the use of modern technology and

efficient, transparent, professional work culture thereby maximizing
productivity.
Carry out phase-wise Government Process Reengineering by 2016.
Empower River Basin Agencies and strengthen all Institutions including WALMI,
MERI, CDO, DSO, DIRD, Hydro Project, SLTAC, Mechanical Organisation, dealing
with water resources by appropriate reforms to enable them for effective and
integrated management of water in space, on ground and under-ground,
including inter basins transfer by 2020.
Compilation of GR of important subject areas by 2014 & consolidation by 2015.
Creation of Maharashtra Water Resources Manual (MWRM) by 2015 by
appropriate modifications in existing MPW Manual and appropriate changes in
specifications, Red Book, standard bid document & PWD Handbooks by 2017.
Re-organization of offices and workload by 2014 & separation of construction
and Management wings from regional level by 2015.

3.8

Institutional Restructuring and Reforms

Research and Development

Identify the present challenges, strengths and weaknesses of existing R&D wing,
investigate underlying obstacles which have prevented it from catching global
pace and to give an implementable road map to convert identity of WRD into
competitive and high-tech department, capable of delivering quality products
and services to the satisfaction of the people of the state by 2020.
Manage challenges posed by climate change through participation with national
and international institutes and associations.
Minimize the gap between theoretical knowledge base and field practices by
encouragement to innovative ideas through pilot projects.
Panel on experts by 2014 to advice on new technologies / challenges.
Establishing Technology Approval Mechanism for seamless introduction and
implementation of new technology in the organisation by 2015.
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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

Increased and sustainable sources of funding for carrying out R&D related
activities.
Innovative use of construction material / machinery/ equipment's & design
approach
Collaborating with private and public sector enterprises.
Creation of special R&D Cadre for by 2015 & capacity building of internal R & D
wing by necessary Institutional Restructuring and well-structured Human
Resource Development schemes.

3.9

Recruitment of all vacant post by 2017 and 3% recruitment in each year

thereafter.
Finalisation of all pending seniority lists by 2014.
E-Service Book & HRM software by 2015 for establishment related matters.
Job Analysis and Job Specification of all posts by 2014.
Training Need Analysis for all posts for Induction, on Promotion, Role change and
fixed interval trainings 2014.
Motivate HR for participation in international/national events and workshops
Special courses at premium institutes for senior officers, (10% per year)
Approach papers on various important issues by Think tank.
Encourage talented human resource to join R&D organisations by providing
financial rewards for innovate design. This in house talent base will be
augmented by constitution of Panel of Experts.

3.10

Human Resources Development

E-Governance

Creation of an effective and financially sustainable system for data collection,

assessment and dissemination for decision making at various levels using
Information and Communication Technology.

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

Provisioning of ICT infrastructure including personalised e-mail solution for

officers, Video-conferencing solution, LAN, WAN and VPN connectivity,
Appropriate mobile devices as per technological requirements by 2015
Enhancements to eJalseva through GPR of basic modules with improved user
interface & simpler forms, enhanced reporting and dashboard features using
business intelligence tools, Online estimate preparation functionality including
DSR, rate analysis, etc. e-Measurement Book, billing and contracts management,
Online submission of monthly accounts, Information System for Water Users
Associations for enhancing participation by 2016.
Implementation of Mobile-based services for Flood alerts, Meetings/reminder
alerts to concerned officers, Water supply, billing and related information
communication, Reservoir storage data input from field staff, Geo-time stamped
photographs for documentation for work in progress, etc. by 2016.
Remote Sensing and GIS-based Decision Support System for mapping State Water
Plan vis--vis created and balanced water in a state, mapping of water bodies
using GIS maps and remote sensing data, mapping of canal network & structures,
Command area map and catchment area maps, mapping of irrigation potential
achieved based on satellite data as compared to actual, Impact assessment of
irrigation projects using land-use parameters, Flood line maps etc. by 2016.
Enablement of electronic service delivery through CSC like Maha e-Seva Centre
by 2016.
Integration with BDS and Sevaarth systems, GRAS, eOffice, e-Payment Gateway,
other Mission Mode Projects, SMS gateway and email solution by 2016 and
Integration with Land Records Information System for sharing of information
regarding to land records, ownership titles, disputes, Integration with UID/
Aadhaar For citizen/ business centric services, by seeding the Farmers Database
with UID/ Aadhaar identity information, Integration with portals developed by
Central Water Commission and Ministry of Water Resources for sharing of
information, irrigation and water resource data and other best practices,
Integration with Agriculture MMP of the Department of Agriculture, Government
of India for providing information and services on irrigation infrastructure,
Integration with state-wide e-Procurement & e-Auction system for better
contract management by 2016.
Land Use Mapping system for Allocation of water, Reservation of water for nonirrigation purpose, Change in cropping pattern, Non-agriculture use of land by
2020.
SCADA based Data Acquisition System for Canal Automation and Supervisory
Control for efficient billing and collection purpose, as decision making tool for
determining release of water by capturing data on cropping pattern, cropped
area, and water requirements as per norms by 2020.
Decision Support System for Water Management Modelling System for Water
Sharing among stakeholders by 2020.
Business Intelligence Tools for Implementation of cutting-edge ICT-based
improvements in the water sector and continuously utilizing the advancement of
ICT for better service delivery by appropriately enhancing eJalseva by 2020.

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Maharashtra Water Resources Department-Vision 2020 Report

Members of Study Groups:Sr.

No.

Team

Name of Member

Guidance

Mrs. Malini Shankar, Principal Secretary, (CAD), Mantralaya

Mr. E.B. Patil, Principal Secretary, (WR), Mantralaya
Mr. H. T. Mendhegiri, Director General, WALMI, Aurangabad.
Shri. T. N. Munde, Superintending Engineer, Koyna Design Circle, Pune
Dr. Sanjay Belsare, SE & Under Secretary, Mantralaya, Mumbai
Shri. Pravin Kolhe, Asst. Chief Engineer, Special Projects, WRD, Amravati
Shri. Girish Nagarkar, Assistant Engineer-I, Koyna Design Circle, Pune
Shri. R. B. Ghote, Chief Engineer & Joint Secretary, Mantralaya Mumbai
Shri. A. V. Surve, Chief Engineer, Water Resources Department, Pune
Shri. D. R. Joshi, SE & Under Secretary, Mantralaya, Mumbai
Dr. Sanjay Belsare, SE & Under Secretary, Mantralaya, Mumbai
Shri. Rajendra Pawar, Chief Engineer, (Special Projects), WR, Amravati
Shri. S.D. Kulkarni, Superintending Engineer, DIRD, Pune
Shri. S.D. Giri, Superintending Engineer, Satara Irrigation Circle, Satara
Shri. A. R. Kambale, SE, Aurangabad Irrigation Circle, Aurangabad
Shri. V. K. Kambale, Superintending Engineer (Mech), Pune
Shri. T.N. Munde, Superintending Engineer, Koyna Design Circle, Pune
Shri. H.V. Gunale, SE, Koyna Construction Circle, Satara
Shri. C.A. Birajdar, Executive Director, Godavari Marathwada Irrigation
Development Corporation, Aurangabad
Shri. R.V. Panase, Chief Engineer & Joint Secretary, Mantralaya Mumbai
Shri. C.A. Hangekar, SE, Nasik Irrigation Project Circle, Dhule
Dr. Sanjay Belsare, SE & Under Secretary Mantralaya, Mumbai
Shri. A. B. Patil, Joint Secretary (Services), Mantralaya Mumbai
Shri. R.S. Sontakke, SE & Joint Director, WALMI, Aurangabad
Shri. Pravin Kolhe, Asst. Chief Engineer, Special Projects, WRD, Amravati
Shri. Haribhau Gite, Assistant Engineer-I, CDO, Nashik.
Shrimati. Rajani Thakur, Assistant Executive Engineer, CDO, Nashik
Shri. T.N. Munde, Superintending Engineer, Koyna Design Circle, Pune
Shri. K.M. Shah, Superintending Engineer , Quality Control Circle, Pune
Shri. S.K. Ghanekar, Superintending Engineer, KWDT (Special Cell), Pune
Shri. R.B. Shukla, Executive Director, Vidharbha Irrigation Development
Corporation, Nagpur
Shri. I.S. Chaudhari, SE, Pune Irrigation Circle, Pune
Shri. K.B. Kulkarni, Superintending Engineer, CADA, Pune
Shri. D.N. Modak, Chief Engineer, Hydropower Projects, Pune
Shri. B.S. Swami, SE, Beed Irrigation Project Circle, Parali
Shri. A.B. Rajivan, SE, Hydropower Project, Ghatghar (E&M), Thane
Shri. V.M. Kulkarni, Chief Engineer, Water Resources, Nagpur
Shri. C.A. Hangekar, SE, Nasik Irrigation Project Circle, Dhule
Shri. S.D. Salunke, SE, Nagpur Irrigation Circle, Nagpur
Shri. M.B. Nakil, Executive Engineer, MERI, Nashik

1)

Editorial Team

2)

Improving
Water Use
Efficiency

3)

Timely
Completion of
Irrigation
Projects

4)

Institutional
restructuring
and Reforms

5)

Human
Resources
Development

E-Governance
6)

7)

8)
9)

Renovation
&Improvement
of Old
Projects
Hydro Power
Development
Research and
Development

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