Authors : Mridula Vijayakumar; Latangi R.; Nishtha Patel; P. Deepalakshmi; Nirmala Devi S.; Dr. D. P. Sivaskti Balan; R. J. Thayumanaswamy

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 6 - June

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/3mdwzxbf

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/4afzwme5

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jun1093

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : River valley projects have played a significant role in India's economic development by supporting irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and water supply. While these projects contribute to agricultural growth and regional development, they also influence the social, economic, and environmental conditions of local communities. This study examines the impact of river valley projects on local communities in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, two South Indian states with distinct geographical and socio-economic characteristics. The study focuses on major river valley projects such as the Mettur Dam and Bhavani Sagar Project in Tamil Nadu and the Idukki Hydroelectric Project and Mullaperiyar Dam region in Kerala. It explores how these projects have affected livelihoods, land use patterns, displacement, employment opportunities, and environmental sustainability. The research highlights both positive and negative consequences experienced by local populations. The findings reveal that river valley projects have improved irrigation facilities, increased agricultural productivity, and enhanced access to electricity and water resources. However, they have also led to displacement of communities, ecological disturbances, and challenges related to rehabilitation and resource distribution. The study concludes that sustainable planning and community participation are essential for ensuring that development benefits are shared equitably while minimizing adverse impacts on local populations.

References :

• Books

1. Agarwal, A. and Narain, S. (1997). Dying Wisdom: The Rise, Fall and Potential of Traditional Water Harvestings in India. New Delhi: Centre for Science and Environment.
2. Gadgil, M. and Guha, R. (1995). Ecology and Equity: Use and Abuse of Nature in Contemporary India. New Delhi: Penguin Books.
3. Khullar, D.R. (2023). India: A Comprehensive Geography. New Delhi: Kalyani Publishers.
4. Singh, Savindra. (2022). Environmental Geography. Prayagraj: Prayag Pustak Bhawan.
5. Sharma, P.D. (2021). Ecology and Environment. Meerut: Rastogi Publications.

• Government Reports and Publications

6. Government of India. National Water Policy. Ministry of Jal Shakti, New Delhi.
7. Central Water Commission (CWC). Water and Related Statistics. Government of India.
8. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). Environmental Impact Assessments on River Valley Projects.
9. Government of Tamil Nadu. Public Works Department (PWD). Reports on the Mettur Dam and Bhavani Sagar Projects.
10. Government of Kerala. Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB).
11. Reports on the Idukki Hydroelectric Project.