(PTI)
Amid controversy over the implementation of the controversial Athirappally hydel project, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today batted for it but maintained that government would strive for a consensus before going ahead.
“The 163 MW project has been conceived in such a way that the water flow to the famous Athirappally waterfalls and also from the proposed dam to powerhouse would not be affected in any manner,” Vijayan said in the state assembly while replying to a calling attention on the issue.
“Not a drop of water will go waste with the project,” he said. The project is planned in Chalakudy river in Thrissur district. Steps for rehabilitation of tribals living in the upper vicinity of the project area have also been taken into consideration while preparing the project report, he said adding there was no habitation in the proposed project site.
The Central Environmental Appraisal Committee has expressed satisfaction on the recommendations of the Environment Impact Assessment report on the project, he said. However, with environmental outfits and some political parties expressing objection to the project, government is trying for a consensus by protecting state’s interests, he said. Vijayan also informed the House that the project has received all legal clearance, including Economic and Technical from the Central Electricity Authority.
