Public Hearing Sees Opposition to Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project

Swift Summary

• An environmental public hearing on the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project was held by the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) at Kargal in Sagar taluk, Shivamogga district, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Gurudatta Hegade.
• KPCL proposes a ₹10,240 crore project to generate 2,000 MW of power using Gerusoppa and Talakalale reservoirs to meet peak-hour energy demands.
• Residents, environmentalists, and politicians opposed the project during the hearing. They alleged lack of access to key reports like the detailed project report (DPR) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), particularly in Kannada.
• KPCL officers insisted that documents were available online but claimed they were not required for discussion during this hearing. Local attendees demanded postponement until reports are shared in Kannada.
• The site is reportedly home to critically endangered wildlife species like lion-tailed macaques; locals expressed concerns over ecological impact and past unaddressed grievances from dams built in earlier decades.
• Concerns were also raised over land acquisitions for forests and private property needed for power supply infrastructure associated with this project.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The strong opposition at the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project’s public hearing highlights prevailing community dissatisfaction with KPCL’s approach toward openness and inclusivity in consultations. The absence of essential documents like dprs or EIAs in local languages raises questions about accessible interaction with affected stakeholders. Additionally, historical grievances related to prior dam projects remain unresolved for many residents-a potential flashpoint reflecting broader distrust toward government initiatives involving land acquisition or ecological disruption.

From an energy perspective, while India faces growing demand during peak hours that drives projects like these forward-locals’ apprehension regarding forest degradation and wildlife conservation must be weighed against these benefits. Clear engagement will be critical if authorities aim to balance developmental aspirations with preserving biodiversity hotspots unique to Karnataka.

Read more: The Hindu Article