(Tribune)
Even as the cancellation of two hydro-electric projects, falling within the wildlife sanctuaries in the Beas basin, seems imminent, Himachal might have to redraft its entire hydropower expansion plan once the cumulative environment impact assessment (CEIA) study of all five river basins is complete.The Directorate of Energy has been left with no option but to withdraw two projects – Manalsu (21.90 MW) near Manali and Makori (20.80 MW) near Dharamsala. The two projects fall in Manali and Dhauladhar wildlife sanctuaries and as such will have to be dropped.“There are six projects, including these two projects, which we might have to reconsider after the completion of the CEIA report on the Beas basin,” revealed Tarun Kapoor, Additional Chief Secretary, Power and Environment. He said some projects might have to be withdrawn, especially in the wildlife sanctuary areas, but in case of others, Himachal will contest and seek setting up of the projects on valid grounds with the Centre.
