In a major step today towards utilization of India’s rights on Eastern Rivers of Indus basin, the mediation efforts of Ministry of Water Resources, RD&GR persuaded the States of J&K and Punjab to reach an agreement to resume works on Shahpur Kandi Dam project in Punjab/ J&K.
The project was being built with an estimated cost of Rs. 2285.81 crore (April, 2008 price level) and is included in the Scheme of National Projects by Government of India. Under the scheme, MoWR, RD&GR provides central assistance @ 90% of the balance cost of works component of irrigation and water supply.
The construction of Shahpur Kandi project was taken up in May 1999, but later halted in 2014 due to dispute between Punjab and J&K.
The project will continue to be implemented by the Government of Punjab. However, there will be a tripartite team headed by Member, CWC and consisting of Chief Engineers of two States to monitor the project as and when required but atleast once in three months to ensure that the construction is as per the agreement.