Categories: Environment

MoEF constitutes committee to study impact of hydro power projects in Uttarakhand

Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has constituted an expert committee to study whether the environmental degradation caused by hydro-electric projects on Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers led to Uttarakhand floods.

The expert committee will be headed by Prof. Ravi Chopra, Director of People’s Science Institute, Dehradun.

The terms of reference of the Expert Committee are:

  1. The committee will examine the extent to which the projects were responsible for the Uttarakhand floods.
  2. Committee will also examine the impact of the proposed 24 hydropower projects on the biodiversity of the region and look into the degradation caused by functioning as well as on-going hydro-projects.
  3. The committee will also suggest suitable environmental safeguard measures to mitigate the adverse environmental impacts in respect of ongoing projects for which Environment Clearance have been granted including tourism projects and also suggest changes in project parameters if they feel it necessary.
  4. The committee will also draft a Himalayan Policy for Uttarakhand keeping in mind the unique ecological, social and cultural characteristics of the state and suggest environment friendly development activities.

Uttarakhand was stuck by flash floods and landslides leading to loss of many lives. The committee is expected to submit its report after three months.

Image credit

Puskar Pande

Editor in chief @GreenCleanGuide.com

Published by

Recent Posts

Types of Cinnamon and the differnece between true Cinnamon and Cinnamomum tamala

Did you know that cinnamon comes from the inner bark of a tree? Yep! When it’s first harvested, it’s a light color, but as it…

3 weeks ago

Regenerative Agriculture: Does It Make Sense in the Indian Context?

Regenerative agriculture is an approach to farming that focuses on restoring soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and improving ecosystem functions. Unlike conventional farming, which often depletes…

2 months ago

What Are Artificial Reefs?

Natural coral reefs and underwater habitats have been damaged by pollution, overfishing, and climate change. To help restore marine life, people create artificial reefs using…

2 months ago

Energy Attribute Certificates (EAC): A Key to Tracking and Promoting Renewable Energy

As the world continues to transition toward cleaner energy sources, the need for systems that can track, certify, and validate the renewable origin of electricity…

3 months ago

Here’s why “Blue Carbon” maybe the missing link in the crucial fight against climate change

The carbon that marine ecosystems absorb and store is known as "blue carbon." The well-known idea of "green carbon," which describes the carbon retained by…

3 months ago

Unlocking Soil Potential: A Farmer’s Guide to Soil Testing in India

Introduction Soil testing is a crucial practice in modern agriculture. It assesses soil health, nutrient levels, and pH balance, enabling farmers to make informed decisions…

3 months ago