Centre taking undue credit for Narmada gates approval: Shankersinh Vaghela

AHMEDABAD: Leader of Opposition in Gujarat Assembly Shankersinh Vaghela today slammed Narendra Modi-led government for taking credit over approval for installation of gates on the Narmada dam.

"Government plays no role in the decision to install gates on Narmada (dam). It's done by Narmada Control Authority appointed by the Supreme Court. The decision had already been taken a few months back, but the announcement was delayed due to some reason. Thus, Central government is taking undue credit," Vaghela said in a statement here.

The Narmada Control Authority last week gave nod to Gujarat for raising the height of the Sardar Sarovar Dam to 138.68 metres from the present 121.92 metres.

The senior Congress leader also hit out at the BJP government in Gujarat over the issue of Narmada canal network.

"Even if you install gates on dam, where would you take this surplus water? Because only 30 per cent of canals are constructed so far. It is impossible to take the water to the scarcity-hit areas," he said.

"Instead of giving water to those who need it, BJP government fills the Sabarmati river for boat rides. This precious water is not meant for such purposes. Narmada water must be used for irrigation and drinking needs," said Vaghela.

He also alleged that the state government had placed an order to build the dam gates when there was no possibility of installing them.

"When the government knew that gates can't be installed at that point, why it gave the order to JP Associates to build them? Now, these gates are rusting. We want an inquiry commission under a Supreme Court or a High Court judge to investigate the possible corruption," he said.