In a move aimed at transforming agriculture in regions affected by farmer suicides, the Maharashtra government has approved the ambitious Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project. This decision was made during the Cabinet meeting.

The project, estimated to cost Rs 873.42 billion, is set to irrigate approximately 3.75 lakh hectares of land, offering significant benefits to drought-prone areas such as Marathwada. The plan involves channeling water from the Godavari basin into the Wainganga river project in Buldhana district, necessitating the construction of 426.52 kilometres of connecting canals.

The districts of Nagpur, Wardha, Amravati, Yavatmal, Akola, and Buldhana in Vidarbha are expected to receive irrigation, drinking water, and industrial water supply across 15 talukas. Additionally, 31 storage tanks will be constructed to support water usage during the Rabi season.

The National Water Development Agency had presented the detailed project report in 2018, and the project has since received approval from the Central Water Commission. It has also been incorporated into the Integrated State Water Plan as discussed in the State Water Council meeting.

The State government stated that this project is anticipated to enhance agricultural productivity and provide a sustainable water supply to the affected regions, thus offering significant relief and development opportunities to the drought-stricken Marathwada area.