The High Court of Karnataka recently ordered the issuance of notices to both the Central and State governments regarding a Public Interest Litigation (PIL). The PIL questions the legality of approvals given by the State Wildlife Board and the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife for the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project (PSHP).
About the Project
The Sharavathi PSHP is a proposed pumped storage hydroelectric project on the Sharavathi River in the Shivamogga district of Karnataka. The project aims to generate 2,000 MW of electricity, making it the largest pumped storage project in India. It is being developed by Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL).
The project involves two existing reservoirs:
Upper Reservoir: Talakalale Dam, 62.48 meters tall, currently balances water for the existing Sharavathi hydroelectric project.
Lower Reservoir: Gerusoppa Dam, about 64 meters tall.
During off-peak hours, water will be pumped uphill to the upper reservoir, and during peak electricity demand, water will be released downhill to generate power.
Objectives and Benefits
Renewable Energy & Carbon Reduction: Utilizes renewable energy sources to reduce carbon emissions.
Water Supply: Modeled on Telangana’s Kaleshwaram project, it aims to supply drinking water to Bengaluru.
Infrastructure: The project involves five tunnels and eight pumping stations, essential for its operation.
Environmental Considerations
The project is located within the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of the Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to several endangered and endemic species, including:
Lion-tailed macaque
Hornbills
King cobras
Numerous endemic plants of the Western Ghats
Environmental clearance and wildlife protection remain key concerns for this project.
About the Sharavathi River
Location: Western Karnataka, flowing westward into the Arabian Sea at Honnavar, Uttara Kannada district.
Length: 128 km
Major Features: Forms Jog Falls, one of India’s highest waterfalls with a drop of 253 meters.
Tributaries: Nandihole, Haridravathi, Mavinahole, Hilkunji, Yennehole, Hurlihole, and Nagodihole.
Geography: Flows through rocky outcrops, fertile plains, and deep gorges, forming diverse ecological and geological landscapes.
Conclusion
The Sharavathi PSHP is a strategically significant renewable energy project aimed at boosting India’s electricity generation and supporting water supply initiatives. However, its location within a wildlife sanctuary raises environmental concerns that must be addressed to balance development with ecological conservation.
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In every Lecture. Director Sir will provide conceptual understanding with around 800 Mindmaps.
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