Karnataka Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, K.S. Eshwarappa, has opposed the visit of the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) to the site of the proposed Sharavathi pumped storage project in the state. The CEC, appointed by the Supreme Court, is scheduled to inspect the project area to assess environmental and forest clearance issues.
Background of the Project
The Sharavathi pumped storage project is a hydroelectric initiative aimed at generating 2,000 MW of power. It involves constructing an upper reservoir and a lower reservoir in the Sharavathi river basin, which flows through the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The project has been mired in controversy due to its potential impact on the ecologically sensitive region.
Eshwarappa's Objections
Eshwarappa stated that the CEC's visit infringes upon the state's autonomy and that Karnataka is capable of handling its own environmental assessments. He argued that the project is vital for the state's energy security and should not be delayed by external interventions. The minister also highlighted that the project has already undergone rigorous scrutiny by state authorities.
“The central committee has no jurisdiction to interfere in state matters. Karnataka has its own forest and environment departments that have cleared the project after due diligence,” Eshwarappa said during a press conference in Bengaluru.
Environmental Concerns
Environmental activists have raised alarms about the project's potential to disrupt the fragile ecosystem of the Western Ghats, including damage to wildlife habitats and water sources. The CEC's visit is part of a broader review of projects in the region following a Supreme Court directive to balance development with conservation.
Political Reactions
The opposition Congress party has criticized Eshwarappa's stance, accusing the state government of trying to bypass environmental safeguards. Congress leader R.V. Deshpande said, “The minister’s opposition to the CEC visit shows a disregard for environmental laws and the Supreme Court’s orders.”
Meanwhile, the state government has maintained that the project is essential to meet Karnataka's growing power demands and that all necessary clearances have been obtained. The matter is expected to be heard in the Supreme Court in the coming weeks.
