Although it sounds very promising to be providing greatly increased water to allow for irrigation and power, the dam may not be as beneficial as many proponents claim. Large amounts of area determined to be irrigated as a result of the dam are very unsuitable for irrigation and agriculture. The soils in these areas are highly susceptible to salinization and flooding. Crops will not flourish in these areas, regardless of increased irrigation. Conversely, in other areas along the canal system supported by the dam too much water will be needed and used.
Sugar cane is a very water-intensive crop.
Many sugar cane factories exist and are being built close to the canals. These areas will use up more than their fair percentage of water, leaving significantly less for other areas in the canal system. Lastly, the neediest areas of Gujarat, the towns and villages that are the most dry and prone to drought, are not going to be reached by the canals put in place thanks to the dam. Only a small percentage of these areas will have access to the water, and they are at the very end of the stream of water. The water they do receive will be low-flowing and inconsistent.