The Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project, seen as a crucial solution for drought-hit Vidarbha, has advanced to the 'survey & investigation' phase, set to continue until 2027.

The Maharashtra government informed the Legislative Council that Rs 1,232 crore has been allocated for this phase, with a Nagpur-based company securing the survey contract. Cabinet Minister Girish Mahajan stated that the Rs 87,343 crore project will take a decade to complete, aiming to irrigate 3,71,277 hectares of farmland. "The crucial project has moved beyond the planning stage," he confirmed, noting that administrative approvals are in place, and work orders were issued in January.

Approved in August last year, the project will lift water from Wainganga river in Bhandara district, and channel it through a 426.52-km canal and pipeline network to the Nalganga river in Buldhana district. It is expected to benefit farmers across Nagpur, Wardha, Amravati, Yavatmal, Akola, and Buldhana.

The Minister emphasised, "This is a step towards eliminating water scarcity in Vidarbha, ensuring water supply for irrigation, meeting drinking water demand, and providing water for industries."