In a significant environmental move, the Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd (UJVNL) has initiated the process of permanently sealing several tunnels constructed for the now-abandoned Loharinag Pala hydropower project in Uttarkashi district. The corporation is also working to redirect water from these man-made channels back into the Bhagirathi river, aiming to revive its natural course.
The Closure and Channelisation Project
According to UJVNL executive engineer Mahavir Singh Nath, the dual work of plugging the tunnels and channelising the water is estimated to cost a substantial Rs 15 crore for each activity. The authorities have set a target to complete this entire process by the year 2027. This decision marks the final chapter for a project that was officially scrapped back in 2010.
A Project Mired in Controversy
The 600 MW Loharinag Pala project was halted following intense opposition from a coalition of socio-religious organisations and environmental activists. The reversal came from a high-powered group of ministers, which included then Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Power Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, and Environment and Forests Minister Jairam Ramesh. This decision was taken despite the government having already invested a staggering Rs 650 crore into the project's development.
Political Backlash and Demands
The move to physically close the project's infrastructure has now sparked a fresh political debate. Uttarakhand Congress chief Ganesh Godiyal has sharply criticised the decision, especially since over half the construction was finished. After inspecting the sealed tunnels on Friday, Godiyal argued that shutting down a nearly complete project capable of generating 600 MW of electricity is illogical and unjust.
"Shutting down this project, which could generate 600 MW of electricity and change the fate of future generations, is effectively closing the doors of opportunity," Godiyal stated. He raised critical questions about state development and employment, asking, "If we do not utilise the natural resources of the state, where will we find employment for our future generations and unemployed youth? How will we increase our GDP?"
He challenged the environmental rationale, noting that the major construction damage was already done. As a counter, he demanded that the state receive a green bonus equivalent to the revenue lost from the 600 MW of foregone electricity. Furthermore, Godiyal urged the government to form a panel of senior lawyers and environmentalists to advocate for the project before the National Green Tribunal and the Central government.
The future of Uttarakhand's development trajectory, balancing ecological concerns with energy needs, remains at the heart of this contentious issue in Uttarkashi.
