Massive Rs 2 Lakh Crore Opportunities Await EPC Players in ILR Projects

Business opportunities worth Rs 2 lakh crore are projected for engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) players over the next decade through four priority interlinking river (ILR) projects. ICRA's study highlights immense potential in the water sector with increased budgetary allocations, focusing on the Ken Betwa, Kosi-Mechi, Parabati Kalisindh Chambal, and Godavari-Cauvery projects.

Business opportunities worth Rs 2 lakh crore are forecasted to emerge for engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) players over the next decade through four priority interlinking river (ILR) projects, according to a study by rating agency ICRA.

The study indicates that around Rs 80,000 crore of these opportunities will be awarded in the next four years to companies involved in large irrigation projects. The National Water Development Agency (NWDA) has pinpointed 30 ILR projects to receive substantial funding from both the Government of India and state governments.

The Centre has significantly increased its focus on the water sector in recent years, raising budgetary allocations for the Ministry of Jal Shakti to over Rs 78,000 crore. The four-priority links are just the beginning of a decade-long ILR project implementation plan. While their share in the ministry's budget stands at 5 per cent, or Rs 3,908 crore, it is expected to grow as more projects gain approval and construction gains momentum, said Chintan Lakhani, Vice President and Sector Head at ICRA.

(With inputs from agencies.)