Uttarkashi's Long-Stalled Hydropower Project Enters Final Closure Phase
The long-awaited process to permanently seal six critical tunnels at the Lohari Nagpal hydropower project in Uttarkashi has officially begun, marking a significant step toward resolving a project that has been in limbo for over a decade. The project, which was initiated in 2006 and halted in 2010 after approximately 70% completion, was ultimately scrapped by the government following widespread protests centered on environmental concerns and the sanctity of the Ganga River.
Dewatering and Inspection Underway at Rapid Pace
Work to extract accumulated water from the tunnels—a crucial procedure known as dewatering—is currently being carried out at a rapid and systematic pace. This initial phase is essential to prepare the tunnels for a detailed structural inspection. Officials have stated that the estimated cost for the entire sealing process is around Rs 22 crore, reflecting the scale and importance of this closure operation.
Executive engineer at UJVNL, Mahavir Singh Nath, provided detailed insights into the procedure: "Accumulated water has filled some of the tunnels and is being removed in carefully planned phases. Following dewatering, each tunnel will undergo a comprehensive and detailed inspection. Any sections found to be loose or structurally unstable will receive immediate treatment to ensure long-term safety and stability. The final step will involve permanently sealing the tunnels by plugging both ends to a depth of approximately five metres each."
Background of the Project and Associated Risks
Since the project's suspension in 2010, the site has remained inactive, with all construction activities completely halted. This prolonged inactivity led to significant challenges, including the accumulation of water within the tunnels and a general lack of maintenance. These conditions raised substantial risks, not only to the integrity of the project's remaining structures but also to the safety of villages located on the surrounding hillsides, highlighting the urgency of the current sealing initiative.
The decision to scrap the Lohari Nagpal project was a direct response to persistent environmental activism and concerns regarding the impact on the Ganga. The commencement of the sealing process represents a definitive conclusion to this chapter, aiming to mitigate any residual hazards and provide closure to a project that has been a point of contention for years.
