Lok Sabha Debates
Need To Declare €˜Teesta Barrage Project’ In West Bengal As A National Project ... on 2 August, 2005
an> Title: Need to declare ‘Teesta Barrage Project’ in West Bengal as a national project and allocate adequate funds for its completion. – Laid.
SHRIMATI MINATI SEN (JALPAIGURI): The execution of the Teesta Barrage Project was commenced in May 1976 with the object for extensive irrigation in the Agriculture sector covering six districts in Northern part of West Bengal. Besides, irrigation, the Project includes generation of hydro-electricity, water supply etc. Thus, the project is to be treated as of National importance and national project as well. The entire project is initially divided in three phases.
One of the main hindrance standing in the way of speedy progress and early completion of the 1st phase of the project is the financial crunch. More than one thousand crores has already been spent till date.
Until and unless this project is brought under the ‘National Scheme’ and proper funding is made from Central fund, the completion of the entire project cannot be adhered to.
Thus, considering the project as of National importance, I urge upon the hon’ble Minister in charge and Government of India to declare the project as a ‘National Project’ and ensure allocation of adequate fund.