The Union government has informed the Karnataka High Court that the Expert Committee did not approve the proposed Sharavathi project, which falls within the Sharavathi Valley Lion-Tailed Macaque Wildlife Sanctuary and its notified Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ). The project spans across Shivamogga and Uttara Kannada districts.
Centre's Submission in Court
During the hearing on July 10, 2026, the central government's counsel submitted that the Expert Committee, constituted to evaluate the project's environmental impact, had not granted approval. The submission was made in response to a public interest litigation challenging the project's legality and environmental clearance.
The court was told that the project area is located entirely within the wildlife sanctuary and its ESZ, which are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Environmental Protection Act, 1986. The Centre emphasized that any development in such areas requires mandatory clearance from the National Board for Wildlife and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Project Details and Concerns
The Sharavathi project involves hydroelectric power generation and water diversion, raising concerns about its impact on the critically endangered lion-tailed macaque and other endemic species. Environmental activists have argued that the project would disrupt the fragile ecosystem of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
According to the petitioner, the project's construction could lead to deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and loss of biodiversity. The lion-tailed macaque, whose population is already declining due to habitat loss, is particularly vulnerable. The sanctuary is also home to several other endangered species, including the Malabar giant squirrel and the great hornbill.
Legal Proceedings
The Karnataka High Court is hearing a batch of petitions filed by environmental groups and local residents. The petitioners have sought a stay on all construction activities and a direction to the government to conduct a comprehensive environmental impact assessment.
The court has adjourned the matter to August 2026 for further hearing. It has directed the state government to file its response and submit all relevant documents related to the project's clearance.
Government's Stand
The state government had earlier defended the project, citing its potential to generate clean energy and boost the region's economy. However, the Centre's statement in court has cast doubt on the project's future. The Expert Committee's non-approval indicates that the project may not meet the stringent environmental norms required for protected areas.
Environmentalists have welcomed the Centre's submission, calling it a victory for conservation. They have urged the court to permanently halt the project to protect the unique biodiversity of the Sharavathi Valley.
