Indian Government Directs CWC to Ensure Environmental Flows in Chambal River for Dolphin Conservation

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has tasked the Central Water Commission with advising on maintaining environmental flows in the Chambal River to protect Ganges River dolphins during the lean season. This follows concerns about dam constructions under the East Rajasthan Canal Project impacting tributaries of the Chambal River without prior environmental impact assessments.

Published Mar 23, 2026

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has directed the Central Water Commission (CWC) to recommend measures for sustaining environmental flows in the Chambal River during the lean season. This directive aims to protect Ganges River dolphins as dam constructions under the East Rajasthan Canal Project threaten the tributaries of the Chambal River, including Banas, Kuno, Parbati, and Kalisindh.

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The lack of an environmental impact assessment raises concerns about potential adverse effects on dolphin conservation and other aquatic life. Additionally, summer evaporation is expected to exacerbate water loss.