MLC Demands Public Consultation for Varahi Pumped Storage Project in Western Ghats
In a significant move, MLC Manjunath Bhandary has formally urged the Minister of Water Resources to organize a comprehensive meeting involving environmentalists, technical experts, local representatives, and the general public. This meeting is specifically requested to address the implementation of the Varahi Pumped Storage Project, which is proposed for the Hosangadi Machchettu area in Kundapur taluk, Udupi district.
Issue Raised During Legislative Session
The matter was brought to light during the zero hour at the state legislature session, where Bhandary emphasized the critical need for stakeholder engagement. He insisted that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the project should only be prepared after a thorough discussion of its advantages and disadvantages with all relevant experts and community members.
Project Details and Environmental Concerns
The Varahi Pumped Storage Project is currently in the DPR preparation phase, targeting ecologically sensitive regions within the Western Ghats. This area includes the wildlife sanctuaries of Mookambika and Someshwara, as well as tiger protection zones and other ecosensitive locations. Due to its location, the project required approval from the National Wildlife Board, which was granted after multiple rounds of meetings.
Following this approval, a tender was awarded to prepare the DPR, which is expected to be submitted to the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) for further action.
Call for Immediate Action
Despite the project's progression, Bhandary highlighted that there have been no formal objections from environmentalists or local residents so far. However, he stressed that this should not lead to complacency. He called for the government to expedite the convening of a meeting with all stakeholders before finalizing the DPR to ensure transparency and address any potential concerns.
Bhandary has specifically requested Minister for Water Resources DK Shivakumar to take necessary initiatives to hold this meeting at the earliest possible opportunity, ensuring that all voices are heard in the decision-making process.
