(Feature Image:- Odisha: 10 stranded in flash flood after sudden release of water from Gohira dam. Source: TNIE )

A large number of reports in this week’s news bulletin from SANDRP are tied by a common threat. The report in NYT about how the South Asian Monsoon is becoming more intense. How the droughts like the one in western US are becoming more likely.

In Bengal people killed in October rains while they were doing visarjan of Durga idols and in Odisha people stuck by sudden release of water from a dam. In these cases of W Bengal and Odisha, strangely, there was no warning and no one is even asking why. In both cases it is the destruction of the river in the that led to create the crisis, but again no questions are being asked.

The report of death by avalanches, the more frequent landslides in monsoons are also in the same league. The SW Monsoon is officially over as per India Meteorological Department, but even as we write, the extreme floods in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh are breaching the Highest Flood Levels in several rivers.

One apparent link that binds all these stories is climate change and how it is changing the various conditions around us. But the other, not so apparent link that binds them all is that the impact of climate change is getting major boost from the way we are destroying the natural environment around us. While our governments are completely blind to these reality, the society in general is not doing any better. Are we waiting for much bigger disasters?

Monsoon becoming more extreme FASCINATING STUFF ABOUT SOUTH ASIAN MONSOON: South Asia’s monsoon is inextricably linked, culturally and economically, to much of Asia. Climate change is making it increasingly less dependable, violent and erratic. The monsoon is becoming more erratic because of a basic bit of science: Warmer air holds more moisture. The moisture accumulates in the atmosphere and can stay there longer, increasing the length of dry spells. But then, when it does rain, “it dumps all that moisture in a very short time,” Dr. Koll said. “It can be a month’s rainfall or a week’s rainfall in a few hours to a few days.”

MONSOON DYNAMICS:  In spring, as the Northern Hemisphere tilts toward the sun, the subcontinent heats faster than the ocean. As the air over the land warms, the air pressure drops, which draws in higher-pressure air from the ocean. “That temperature difference creates this pressure difference that drives this moisture-laden air from the ocean toward the land,” Dr. Koll said. The rotation of the earth gives these winds their direction. But that’s only part of the story, said Anders Levermann, a climate scientist at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany. “The moment the first rain falls, the land gets cooled,” he said.

– That would be expected to stop, or at least slow, the monsoon, by reducing the temperature difference between land and ocean. But there’s now another source of warmth over the land: the condensation of water vapor into droplets, which releases heat. That maintains the temperature difference and keeps the monsoon going. This self-sustaining feature is important, Dr. Levermann said, because it suggests that, as the world keeps getting warmer, year-to-year variability of the monsoon could increase. “Once you have started the monsoon strong, it will become even stronger,” he said. “Once you have started the monsoon weak, it will become weaker.” 

– It mentions the work of Meenachil River Protection Council in Kerala, that won Bhagirath Prayas Samman Award from India Rivers Forum in 2017. https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2022/10/04/climate/south-asia-monsoon-climate-change.html  (04 Oct. 2022)

West Bengal 8 drown during idol immersion It is not very clear what exactly led to this tragedy, if there was any warning, if not why not, etc. Eight people were killed and 13 others injured in flash floods in the Mal river in Jalpaiguri district during an idol immersion procession of the Goddess Durga on the last day of Puja festivities in the state, officials said. According to the police, the flash floods occurred around 9.15pm on Wednesday (Oct. 5), when the idol immersions were being carried out by followers in the Malbazar in Dooars areas of Jalpaiguri.

Like most rivers in the Dooars region, the Mal also gets flooded during rain in the Himalayan foothills, and it was raining heavily in the Kalimpong hills when the accident took place, a senior police officer said. He added that devotees were not aware of the rising water level in the upper stream of the river.

Officials said a large crowd had gathered for idol immersion, but did not specify the number Due to the flash flood, the level of water rose from around six inches to 3.5 feet within a few seconds, they said. “A similar flash flood had hit the river last month in which a truck was swept away. The meteorological department had warned of heavy rain in Jalpaiguri and the hilly regions of Kalimpong, where the river originates,” said an official of the district administration, requesting anonymity.

Local residents said that boulders were placed on the river bed to accumulate water for idol immersion. The temporary dam collapsed in the flash flood, washing away people. “The dam was created to facilitate the sand and stone mafias. The minister concerned and the chairman of the local municipality should be arrested,” tweeted Sukanta Majumdar, BJP state president. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/others/8-drown-during-idol-immersion-in-bengal-101665080406437.html  (07 Oct. 2022)

Odisha 10 persons stuck after sudden water release from Gohira Dam According to reports, on Friday (Oct. 7) morning, the group of 10 persons including five minors and a woman had gone to the Gohira nullah for recreation purposes when the water was up to knee level. However, at around 10 am, the water level started increasing suddenly after one of the gates of the Gohira dam located 5 kms from the Gohira nullah was opened to discharge floodwater. As water entered the nullah, the group made all efforts to get grip of the nearby branches or rocks to resist the water current and screamed for help.

Subsequently, the villagers rushed to the nullah and immediately informed the fire officials of Reamal besides the dam authorities while some of them tried to rescue the stranded people. By the time, the team reached the spot, four persons had already come to the shore with the help of the villagers.

On the other hand, sub-divisional officer (SDO) of Gohira Dam Hrushikesh Bhoi said, the discharge of floodwater was not sudden. As the water level had crossed the full reservoir level (FRL) of 235.5 ft at the dam, one of the five gates was opened to release the water in the morning. Prior to that, sirens were also blown but the picnickers might not have heard. However, we immediately closed the gate after we came to know that some people were stuck. Our officials were also present during the rescue operation.” https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2022/oct/08/deogarh-stranded-after-floodwater-release-10-rescued-2505976.html  (08 Oct. 2022) https://odishabytes.com/10-tourists-stranded-mid-river-after-water-released-from-gohira-dam-in-odishas-deogarh/  (07 Oct. 2022)

Report Climate change has made droughts 20 times more likely According to the World Weather Attribution service, climate change made the record droughts experienced by the Northern Hemisphere this summer at least 20 times more likely. Without anthropogenic global warming, such an event would have been expected to occur only once every four centuries. https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-made-droughts-20-times-more-likely/  (06 Oct. 2022)

One of the report’s most central findings about the planet’s Northern Hemisphere is that because the planet has already warmed by 2.2 degrees Fahrenheit (1.2 Celsius) since the late Nineteenth Century, this summer’s low moisture levels in the first few feet below the soil was at least 20 times as likely to occur compared. This part of the soil is crucial since it’s where the root systems of main plants draw water.

According to Friederike Otto, a scientist at Imperial College London and another one of the study’s authors, natural variations in the weather in Central and Eastern Europe can cancel each other out since it is a smaller area than the Northern Hemisphere above the tropics.

“There is absolutely no doubt that climate change did play a big role here,” Otto said in an interview with The New York Times. But, she continued, “the exact quantification of that role is more uncertain for soil moisture than, for example, when we look at heavy precipitation.” https://www.popsci.com/environment/climate-change-hot-dry-summer/  (06 Oct. 2022)

Melvyn Rutter on FB post Comment:- the monthly average temperature for my nearest sample point has not changed since 1925, when compared with 2019. If there is a problem, try looking at water management, you know how much used per population and how much stored, saved in human processes. Start here and see where this gets you when there is a crisis. Blaming global warming on stuff that can mostly be avoided, is just daft

HYDRO POWER PROJECTS

SANDRP Blog Tirthans Way Abhay Kanvinde’s photo story of Tirthan, as the free-flowing river makes its way out of the Great Himalayan National Park, then flows close to villages, touching the people and finally when it gets dammed as it comes out of the valley that is its home. Tirthan reminds us of Tagore’s Gitanjali, where he writes about a similar small bubbling river, the Kopai. https://sandrp.in/2022/10/04/tirthans-way/  (04 Oct. 2022)

Abhay Kanvinde photo blog on people of free flowing Tirthan river has been republished here by Scroll. https://scroll.in/article/1034150/in-photos-life-along-the-gushing-waters-of-the-free-flowing-tirthan-river-in-the-himalayas  (07 Oct. 2022)

Himachal Pradesh On Oct 5, 2022, the PM inaugurated in Bilaspur the Rs 140 Cr Government Hydro Engineering College at Bandla. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1865321

MoEF Decisions of the EAC on River Valley Projects held on Sept 14, 2022 from its minutes:

1.  Palamuru Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (Ph II: Irrigation) in Dists of Mahbubnagar, Rangareddy & Nalgonda, Telangana – Environmental Clearance: Deferred as project involves violations, need clearances and other related issues.

2. Tarali Pumped Storage Project 1500 MW in 108.95 ha in Patan Tehsil, Satara Dist of Maharashtra by Adani Green Energy Limited – Terms of Reference: Recommended http://environmentclearance.nic.in/writereaddata/Form-1A/Minutes/0410202297296050Final_MOM_34th_River_Valley_14_09_2022.pdf 

DAMS

SANDRP Blog Legally enforceable Humane Rehabilitation, not compensation needed: Madikheda Dam  Guest Article by Bageshwer Singh and Pooja Chand Dam construction on any river is often preceded by displacement of locals and followed by submergence of villages, turning them into ghost villages. All the major river water projects involve large scale displacement of locals, and most of these displacements lead to creation of vulnerable groups.

The stories of displacement and forced evictions can be traced back to construction of dams like Sardar Sarovar Dam on river Narmada, or Tehri Dam on Bhagirathi or Hirakud Dam on Mahanadi. Almost always, these displacements are rife with little insight into the village specific consequences of dam construction, villagers are left with no option but to give up on their ancestral lands to move out to alien colonies with no land to their name. https://sandrp.in/2022/10/04/legally-enforceable-humane-rehabilitation-not-compensation-needed-madikheda-dam-in-madhya-pradesh/  (04 Oct. 2022)

Madhya Pradesh Maheshwar project will now be put up for sale, but it is doubtful if there will be any takers. The company has been declared bankrupt and recovery process has started.

The project is already with the NCLT where PFC has taken Maheshwar project to NCLT for resolution under the IBC. This is the forum where the interests of the lenders are taken care of and attempt is made to keep the project going, and liquidation is the last process. Common people have least claim here and the process has any provision for ensuring accountability. Lenders often take huge “haircuts” of more than 60-70% without anyone being made accountable for it. The latest order of the NCLT of 27 Sept 2022 upholds earlier order of trying to revive project. So the matter is still on. 27 Sept 2022 Order is available here. https://nclt.gov.in/gen_pdf.php?filepath=/Efile_Document/ncltdoc/casedoc/1908134019012022/04/Order-Challenge/04_order-Challange_004_166434456715114836216333e1f78407e.pdf 

Due to lack of maintenance, one of the 27 gates of the Maheshwar dam fell in the Narmada due to a hydraulic pump burst about three years ago. Since then the possibilities are being raised that gradually the rest of the gates may also fall. https://www.freepressjournal.in/indore/national-company-law-tribunal-declares-maheshwar-hydel-power-corporation-bankrupt  (07 Oct. 2022)

Karnataka Lives, Harinala dam under threat from quarry blasts in Belagavi The gelatin blasts at stone crushing units in Marikatti and Ganikoppa villages of Bailhongal taluk are not only posing threat to the life of villagers and animals but also to the environment and a water reservoir located close by. Walls of many houses near the units have developed cracks due to the impact of the blasts which are allegedly carried out in violation of the guidelines and conditions set by the mines and geology department. The Harinala dam situated between Navalgatti and Tigadi villages near the units is also facing threat.

The Harinala dam in Tigadi village lies within 5-km radius of the land which experiences vibrations due to the blasting activities. The dam, built over 40 years ago, is the source of drinking water to over 20 surrounding villages. Vitthal Talwar, a gram panchayat member of Marikatti village said that Tigadi, Kallur, Sampaon and some other villages situated downstream of the dam are at high risk. Many farmers have stopped farming in the surrounding areas as the stone dust spreads over crops and causes losses to farmers. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2022/sep/13/lives-harinala-dam-under-threat-from-quarry-blasts-in-belagavi-2497579.html  (13 Sept. 2022)

Maharashtra Govt sanctions revised budget of 11,736 cr for 2 decade-old Marathwada Pipe dream The Mah govt on Oct 4, 2022 gave a revised administrative approval for the two-decade-old Krishna-Marathwada irrigation scheme in Marathwada region, which is like a pipe dream as SANDRP wrote years back in 2015. The state cabinet has sanctioned ₹11,736 crore as the revised cost of the project, which is almost five times the original cost. This is the second revised administrative approval given to the project, whose cost has increased by close to ₹7,000 crore in the last 14 years. The Krishna-Marathwada irrigation project was first approved by the state back in 2003-04 and its estimated cost was ₹2,383 crore. In 2008-09, after the first revised administrative approval, its cost went up to ₹4,845 crore.

– It envisages three lift irrigation schemes to draw 23.66 thousand million cubic feet (TMC) water from the Krishna basin. Of this, 17.98 TMC is proposed to be utilised for Osmanabad district and 5.68 TMC to be utilised for Ashti tehsil in Beed district. “The project will help in bringing 1.24 lakh acres of land under irrigation. It will benefit Paranda, Bhoom, Kalamb, Washi, Tuljapur, Lohara and Omerga talukas of Osmanabad district and Ashti taluka of Beed district,” the deputy chief minister said. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/mumbai-news/maharashtra-government-sanctions-revised-budget-of-11-736-crore-for-two-decade-old-marathwada-dam-101664911073671.html  (06 Oct. 2022)

SANDRP wrote in 2015 about this project: https://sandrp.in/2015/04/01/krishna-marathwada-project-a-costly-pipe-dream/  (01 April 2015)

Polavaram Project Union Jal Shakti Minister held meeting of officials of four states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Odisha on Sept 29, 2022 following directions from the Supreme Court earlier in Sept. A meeting with technical experts of four states will be held on Oct 7, 2022. https://english.sakshi.com/news/andhrapradesh/polavaram-issue-union-jal-shakti-ministry-holds-virtual-meeting-four-stakeholder  (29 Sept. 2022)

INTERSTATE WATER DISPUTES

Kerala-Tamil Nadu Official talks on with Kerala over completion of Idamalayar dam works: T.N. Talks are on between the officials of Tamil Nadu and Kerala over the status of completion of the Idamalayar dam so that Tamil Nadu could proceed with Anamalaiaru, Nallaru, Neeraru, Pandiaru and Punnampuzha schemes, said M.P. Saminathan, Minister for Information and Public Relations at Pollachi on Friday.

The Minister said during a recent visit to Kerala, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister presented a memorandum to the Kerala Chief Minister pressing for speedy completion of Idamalayar dam, so that Tamil Nadu, as per the agreement, could proceed with the construction of Anamalaiaru, Nallaru and Neeraru and also the Pandiaru and Punnampuzha schemes to augment the water yield in Lower Bhavani Project. Next will the Ministers level talks, followed up by the CM level talks. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/official-talks-on-with-kerala-over-completion-of-idamalayar-dam-tn-minister-saminathan/article65979422.ece  (7 Oct 2022)

RIVERS AS NATIONAL WATERWAYS

IRRIGATION

Report With limited funds to deal with the gargantuan task of restoring degraded land and reversing desertification in the country, the government is now planning to bring convergence between the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY). https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/mgnregs-to-fund-work-to-reverse-desertification-of-land-across-states/article65967045.ece  (03 Oct. 2022)

RIVERS

Meghalaya Environment & WRD, KHADC fail to prevent river pollution Since 2019 a team of concerned citizens have converged with a common concern to clean up a section of the Umkaliar river which flows into the Umkhrah. Working under the umbrella of Operation Clean-Up (OCU) the group decided to concentrate on cleaning this single section until they see results. Three years down the line the OCU is disillusioned at the lack of cooperation from the government (barring the East Khasi Hills deputy commissioner).

Week after week they return to see the same amount of garbage – tonnes of it collecting at the Umkaliar which then flows on to the Umkhrah. The Umkaliar is located under the new Dorbar Shnong of Urkaliar. The Umkaliar river is fed by streams that flow across many villages (Shnong) beginning from Lapalang, Nongrah, Rynjah, Umpling, Nongmensong and Wahkdait. https://theshillongtimes.com/2022/09/13/environment-water-resources-depts-khadc-fail-to-prevent-river-pollution/  (13 Sept. 2022)

Odisha Gangua nullah most polluted, suggests report of CPCB Gangua nullah in the State capital which has been struggling for its revival as a natural water channel is the most polluted followed by Guradih nala and Brahmani river near Rourkela, suggests a report of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) submitted to the NGT in connection with a petition.

CPCB had obtained the water quality data from states for the period between January and December 2020. Data of different rivers and water bodies of other states has also been submitted by the CPCB to NGT in connection with hearing of a petition regarding contentious monitoring of emission and discharges, said NGT advocate Sankar Prasad Pani. Pani said it is high time the State government constructed adequate number of STPs and effluent treatment plants (ETPs) to check water pollution in rivers and natural water bodies.  He said water quality monitoring should be put in public domain like it has been done for air quality monitoring online. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2022/oct/08/gangua-nullah-most-polluted-suggests-report-of-cpcb-2505984.amp  (08 Oct. 2022)

GANGA वाराणसी से सटे चंदौली में गंगा नदी का पानी अचानक आसमान में भाप बन कर उड़ने लगा। पहले एक धमाका हुआ इसके बाद पानी ऊपर ऐसे जाने लगा जैसे कोई पाइप जोड़ दी गई है। जियोफिजिक्स से जुड़े लोग इसे वाटर स्पॉउट (Water Spout) बता रहे हैं जो कभी कभार ऐसा होता है। https://hindi.indianarrative.com/india-news/water-spout-in-varanasi-the-water-of-ganga-started-rising-in-the-sky.html  (03 Oct. 2022)

YAMUNA Delhi NGT asks PWD to rethink elevated road on floodplain Four years after the Delhi government announced a project to decongest the Ring Road stretch between the Signature Bridge and the Delhi Noida Direct (DND) flyway, the 18km elevated road has hit an environmental barrier as the NGT principal committee has asked the Public Works Department to re-examine the corridor plans because a large portion of it is proposed over the Yamuna floodplain.

The project was proposed by the Aam Aadmi Party government in its 2018-19 budget to decongest the stretch between Wazirabad and DND flyway. In his budget speech, Delhi deputy chief minister and finance minister Manish Sisodia had said: “The travel time will also be reduced by 20-30 minutes after completion of the project.” As per the plan, a majority of the elevated corridor will be constructed on the Yamuna floodplain. The PWD has now started a ground survey to assess if the alignment can be reworked.

“There is not much scope to rework the entire alignment. We are just exploring the possibility if at certain locations the alignment can be pushed away from the floodplains,” a PWD official said, declining to be named. “We have started the survey 10 days back and will complete it by mid-October. The revised proposal will be resubmitted for approval.”

“The corridor will be constructed on the floodplains. We have also planned double-decker corridors at four locations for pedestrians so that people can get a view of the river,” another PWD official said. “At these locations, the traffic will ply at the top level and pedestrian space will be created below it. The project will cost around ₹2,500 crore.” https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/green-tribunal-asks-pwd-to-rethink-elevated-road-on-yamuna-floodplain-101664735310924.html  (03 Oct. 2022)

Govt pushes for localised plants to stop sewage reaching river The Delhi government on Wednesday (Oct. 5) cleared projects planned at a cost of ₹570 crore for abatement of pollution in the Yamuna with a focus on developing decentralised sewage treatment plants (DSTPs) in rural and unauthorised areas of the city that are currently not covered by the sewage network. These projects include the construction of DSTPs in several areas of the Bawana and Mundka belt along with the laying of sewer lines in the unauthorised colonies/rural areas of the outer Delhi region.

Under the projects approved, the water utility will carry out construction of DSTPs, with a cumulative capacity of 26MLD, and waste water pumping stations in colonies such as Nizampur, Ghevra, Kanjhawala, and Mohammadpur Manjri under Mundka assembly constituency. The DJB will spend ₹427.6 crore on constructing DSTPs and laying sewer lines in these rural areas, while ₹132.6 crore will be spent on similar facilities and sewage network in nine villages and 24 unauthorised colonies in Bawana region.

The Sewage Treatment Augmentation Action Plan for 2041 proposes 56 DSTPs with a cumulative capacity of 95MGD while another 240MGD capacity is expected to be added via such decentralised units in land pooling areas. According to the 2022 economic survey, Delhi has an installed capacity to treat around 597MGD of sewage. The government has said STPs with a total capacity of 239MGD will be added to the sewage treatment infrastructure by June 2023.

The water utility has been pushing for DSTPs since 2019 at least, but non-availability of land was hindering the projects. A DJB official said currently, the board has a proposal to construct 41 such treatment units but land is available only at 28 sites. According to current projections by DJB, the first lot of DSTPs will be made operational by December 2023. “For the rest, we will need at least 15 months from the date of allocation of land,” the official added. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/delhi-pushes-for-localised-plants-to-stop-sewage-reaching-yamuna-101664994603924.html  (06 Oct. 2022)

NMCG will promote natural farming under its Namame Gange programme in areas of the state contiguous to the banks of the Yamuna, tributary of the Ganga. The director-general of the NMCG, G Asok Kumar, said a “Vishaal Kissan Sammelan” workshop, organised in Bayyanpur village in Sonepat in this respect, was a success.

The thrust of the NMCG, which has been entrusted with the exercise to keep the Ganga clean, is to promote alternate mode of farming and diversified cropping matter other than the traditional paddy and wheat plantations which consume more water. With underground water depleting at an alarming rate in the state, diversified farming is of utmost importance to keep the Ganga and its tributaries clean. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/jal-shakti-ministry-to-promote-natural-farming-along-yamuna-438825  (07 Oct. 2022)

The Supreme Court on Monday (Sept. 26) dismissed a plea seeking directions to authorities to take urgent steps for cleaning Yamuna River to enable devotees to observe Chhath puja. A bench of Justices Abdul Nazeer and V Ramasubramanian, however, granted the petitioners liberty to approach appropriate authorities. The plea also sought for directing the Delhi government to immediately tackle water crisis of Delhi due to high ammonia level in Yamuna and seeked a detailed report from the state government on steps taken for cleaning the Yamuna in the past 10 years. https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2022/sep/27/supreme-court-junks-plea-to-clean-yamuna-river-ahead-of-chhath-festival-2502379.html  (27 Sept. 2022)

Fleeing floodwaters a way of life for families on banks of Yamuna https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-09/flooding-now-common-in-climate-change-hit-india/101515764  (09 Oct. 2022)

RIVERS BIODIVERSITY

Nagaland Scientists discover new fish species A dead fish specimen collected from a fisherman’s net in the Dikhu river turned out to be a new fish species- Pethia dikhuensis to science. It was not as easy as it looks. Pethia dikhuensis is currently known only from the Dikhu River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra, in the Mokochung district of Nagaland. Pethia dikhuensis is unique among all species of barbs because the male fish of this species have reddish-orange fins and bodies. The new fish is consumed by locals but also possesses a good ornamental value due to the attractive colour.

The genus Pethia are small sized-fishes (5-8 cm) commonly called ‘barbs’. These fishes are endemic to the Indian subcontinent and Myanmar. A total of 38 valid species of Pethia genus are known to occur in India and its bordering countries, of which 18 species occur in the northeastern states and Bangladesh.

“Last year a small miniature catfish called Pseudolaguvia vespa was also discovered by our team. The discovery of P. dikhuensis suggests that the streams and rivers of this region may harbour many more undescribed species of fish, and therefore deserves increased survey efforts,” J. Praveenraj, a scientist at the Division of Fisheries Science, ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair, who identified the new fish species said.

Nagaland is drained by 11 major rivers, which are tributaries of the larger Brahmaputra River system. The rivers of Nagaland are relatively less explored compared to other Northern Eastern states of India. The fish fauna of this region is poorly studied and our team is taking efforts to explore, discover and describe new species from this region. https://www.eastmojo.com/nagaland/2022/10/05/scientists-discover-new-fish-species-in-nagaland/  (05 Oct. 2022)

FISH, FISHERIES, FISHERFOLKS

Chennai Why fisherfolk are opposed to beach beautification projects Over the years, Marina beach has seen a lot of changes. Clean-up drives and beautification projects make headlines every now and then. Such efforts have been the pet project of successive governments, be it DMK or AIADMK.

The latest in a long line of projects which have been announced in this regard is the Rs 100-crore Chennai Shoreline Re-nourishment and Revitalisation Project, covering the 30-km stretch between the Marina and Kovalam. Every time a project like this makes headlines, fisherfolk from various fishing hamlets along the shoreline are forced to mount a fight against it to protect their lives and livelihood. https://chennai.citizenmatters.in/chennai-beach-beautification-fishermen-crz-protests-livelihood-nochikuppam-jallikattu-50651  (10 Oct. 2022)

Kerala Inland fishers worried over disappearance of giant shrimps Rapid formation of sandbars in Vembanad and neighbouring lakes and the virtual disappearance of giant shrimps have forced inland fishers to appeal to the government to call a meeting of the Fisheries Management Council to discuss issues confronting them. Fishers have reiterated their demand that the govt act on its promises to clean up backwaters, remove silt, and create a situation conducive for the smooth movement of water in lakes, said V.M. Aanandan of Enzhupunna-Thuravur Inland Fisheries Development & Welfare Cooperative based at Aroor.

He added that around 7 lakh people, including those engaged in ancillary work, depended on inland fisheries in the backwaters. The lakes provided employment to thousands who took to fishing during the pandemic. “Backwaters have such potential, & we are ignoring it,” he said. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Kochi/inland-fishers-worried-over-disappearance-of-giant-shrimps-urge-govt-to-clean-up-backwaters/article65975575.ece  (7 Oct 2022)

Udupi Pond in Kotilingeshwara temple polluted, fish die Pond (Pushkarini) of the temple is considered as sacred. Water from the pond is used for various religious works including Abhisheka of Gods or Goddesses. However, the pond of the renowned Kotilingeshwara temple in Koteshwara is polluted and the fish in the pond are dying. Public is urging temple administration, local bodies and concerned departments to take suitable action.

Sewage water is getting mixed into the pond from the north eastern side of the lake. A white layer is seen on the surface of the water. There is a drain that flows on the north east side of the pond to which polluted water from some industries flows. When the water gets filled in the drain, it enters the pond, nearby water bodies and farm lands. https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1008148  (09 Oct. 2022)

Bengaluru Sewage flow causes fish kill in Haralur lake In an alarming incident, a large number of dead fish were found floating in Haralur Lake in the Bellandur area of Bengaluru on Wednesday. Three to four tonnes of fish have been reported dead in the past 3-4 days as per news agency ANI. The overflowing of toxic sewage into the lake is being regarded as the primary cause of the incident. Halalur Lake volunteer Amardeep Adiga told the media that the drain which should carry rainwater is carrying toxic sewage water. As per the locals, the only barricade between lake inlets and toxic waste holds the water for some time but at the end of the day, it overflows. Due to this, 3-4 tonnes of fish have died in the past 3-4 days. “A large section of the stormwater drain network carries sewage and this water flows into the lakes. With the entry of sewage, froth is formed in the lakes and fish die owing to lack of oxygen,” he added.

As per ActionAid’s ‘Fishkill in Lakes of Bengaluru (2017-2022)’ report, cited by news agencies, eight instances of fish-kill were reported in Bengaluru lakes in 7 months of 2022, surpassing the annual fish kill numbers in the last five years. While six incidents were reported in 2017 and 2018, the numbers came down during the lockdown years between 2019 and 2021. Several complaints have been raised in the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) about the overflow of toxic waste into the river, but no action has been taken by the authorities so far, the lake volunteer said. “They said that action will be taken but as of now nothing has been done,” Adiga added. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bengaluru-news/bengaluru-sewage-flow-causes-fish-kill-in-haralur-lake-101663211204661.html  (15 Sep 2022)

SAND MINING

Report Blanket mining of construction material, river sand ‘causing havoc’ In Kolawalpur village of Banda District (state of Uttar Pradesh), many farmers recently complained bitterly that the miners of river sand had destroyed their farms and standing crops. What is more, threat of floods in the rainy season and the river drying up in the dry season had increased due to the excessive extraction of sand from the river using heavy machines. Workers who were employed in sand mining had not been paid the wages due to them.

Similarly, in Mahawa and Bhirala villages of Sikar district (state of Rajasthan) the farmers and pastorals had been devastated by mining of stone and the use of dynamite for this. Water sources were drying up. Not just workers but even other villagers had fallen prey to stone dust related health problems including silicosis disease. After blasting work, stones were hurled here and there and could hurt anyone.

These are just two examples of how indiscriminate mining of construction materials including river-sand and various kinds of stones (as well as stone crushers attached to them) has caused havoc in tens of thousands of villages in India in recent years. https://www.counterview.net/2022/10/blanket-mining-of-construction-material.html (10 Oct 2022)

As govt reconsiders ban, Adani forays into beach sand mining Industry sources say the entry of cash-rich corporate giant Adani Group into the sector is the strongest indication that the Union government is likely to revoke the existing ban on private players in beach sand mineral mining. The world’s fourth richest man, whose investments range from media and telecom to coal and cement, is all set to step into the beach sand mining (BSM) industry to process and sell titanium dioxide, ilmenite, rutile, garnet, sillimanite, and leucoxene.

– In February 2019, the Modi govt cited national security as a reason for keeping private players out of the extraction of these minerals which are used in the production of atomic energy. In an apparent U-turn, on May 25 this year, the Ministry of Mines drafted a proposal to allow the return of private companies into the sector by amending the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1975 (MMDR Act) and invited suggestions/comments from various stakeholders including Union ministers, state governments, mining companies and the public. The consultation ended in August this year, and the amendments are expected to be tabled in Parliament as early as in the Winter Session. https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/government-reconsiders-ban-adani-forays-beach-sand-mining-168631   (06 Oct. 2022)

Bihar 4 shot dead in gang war over illegal sand mining in rural Patna Four people were killed and several others injured in a shoot-out between two rivals gangs involved in illegal sand mining on the bank of river Sone near Patna on Thursday (Sept 29, 2022), police said. More than 500 empty cartridges were recovered from the shoot-out site at Amnabad-Katesar village, which falls under Bihta police station limits, and the bodies were either thrown in the river or dumped in sand. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/patna-news/4-shot-dead-in-gang-war-over-illegal-sand-mining-in-rural-patna-101664470595923.html  (29 Sept. 2022)

Gujarat RTI activist injured, son killed by man accused of illegal sand mining A 24-year-old RTI activist Ramesh Balia of Meghpar village was killed and his father, also a RTI activist, was grievously injured after a man accused of illegal sand mining allegedly rammed their scooter with his SUV in Lakhpat Taluka in  Kutch district on Oct 3, 2022. The accused was arrested following the incident. Ramesh Balia had lodged complaints of illegal sand mining against Navalsinh Jadeja, police said. https://www.ptinews.com/news/national/gujarat-rti-activist-injured-son-killed-by-man-accused-of-illegal-sand-mining-land-grabbing/429727.html  (06 Oct. 2022)

Police said the incident took place around 6.30 pm on October 3 when Ramesh Balia and his son Narendra were on their way home in Meghpar village from Dayapar. In his complaint with Nara police station in Nakhtrana division of Kutch, Ramesh, the RTI activist from Meghpar village stated that Jadeja , a resident of Junachay village, rammed his SUV into his scooter and killed his 23-year-old son Narendra.

According to the police, the RTI activist had filed complaints of illegal mining against Navalsinh Jadeja, 24. “Ramesh is an RTI activist who keeps filing complaints with police and the mining department, alleging illegal mining. He had filed a police complaint against the same accused around a year ago complaining about illegal sand and soil mining. In response, we had seized vehicles used by the accused and then transferred the matter to the mining department,” Saurabh Singh, Superintendent of Kutch (west) Police told The Indian Express on Wednesday (Oct. 5). https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/rajkot/rti-activist-injured-son-dead-after-man-he-accused-of-illegal-mining-rams-scooter-8192149/  (06 Oct. 2022)

Jadeja apparently held a grudge against Mr. Balia for lodging complaints against him with the local mines and minerals department for illegal sand mining, inspector Maheshwari said. Jadeja was also accused of land grabbing, he said, adding that further probe was on. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/rti-activist-injured-son-killed-after-man-accused-of-illegal-sand-mining-rams-their-scooter-in-kutch/article65974920.ece  (06 Oct. 2022)

Himachal Pradesh Impact of illegal mining in lower Palampur area in Kangra: Water sources become defunct, rivulets stop flowing, no water for irrigation or drinking water, danger to paths, culverts, transmission lines, roads, etc. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/illegal-mining-water-scheme-dries-up-in-lower-palampur-438270

Jammu & Kashmir NGT questions clearances; halts mining at Shaliganga NGT bench headed by Justice Sudhir Agarwal September 28, 2022 ordered mining operations at the Shaliganga Nallah in Budgam district of the Kashmir Valley to halt, calling into question the environmental clearances (EC) given for the operations. The NGT order came in response to a plea by activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat. It challenged the validity of the ECs given to three mining blocks in the area earlier this year.

The NGT impugned (called into question) the ECs and restrained all mining activities in the area by construction company NKC Projects Pvt Ltd. “Impugned ECs dated 19.04.2022 are hereby set aside. PP/respondent 4 is restrained from carrying on any mining activities pursuant to impugned EC,” the order read.

NKC Projects Pvt Ltd, the project proponent, had proposed that it be allowed to mine 1.81 hectares (ha) in Block 1, 1.29 ha in Block 2 and 2.90 ha in Block 4. It was given clearance for the same May 19, 2022 by the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority, Jammu & Kashmir, which was challenged by Bhat.

The order stated that according to the appellant, “All the three proposals were rejected by the (administration-appointed) Jammu and Kashmir Expert Appraisal Committee (JKEAC) on the ground that the area for which ECs were applied, are already overexploited; depleted to a large extent due to heavy illegal mining.” “Shaliganga Nallah is a feeding channel for the Hokersar wetland and mining activity may be detrimental to natural flow and quality of water flowing into Hokersar; irrigation kuhls are also present within the mining site,” it added. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/mining/ngt-questions-clearances-halts-mining-at-shaliganga-nallah-in-kashmir-85286  (04 Oct. 2022)

Madhya Pradesh NGT stops mining in ecologically sensitive Madhav NP NGT restrained MP’s mining department and district collector of Shivpuri from granting a lease for mining operations in the area. The order was given September 21, 2022. The NGT had constituted a panel in July to submit a factual and action-taken report within two months over the issue. The joint committee submitted its report on September 13, 2022. The mining and geology department of the state will undertake the required actions for reclamation of land and implementation of the mine closure plan within 2 months’ time and submit the report with photographs within 3 months, the bench said. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/environment/ngt-stops-mining-in-ecologically-sensitive-madhav-national-park-in-madhya-pradesh-85290  (04 Oct. 2022)

Jharkhand A bank passbook and a signed and unsigned cheque book of CM Hemant Soren were recovered during raids from the residence of his close aide and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Pankaj Mishra, who is the prime accused in a money laundering case linked to alleged illegal mining in the state, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has said. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/sorens-passbook-signed-cheques-seized-after-ed-raid-on-cm-s-aide-in-illegal-mining-case-101664733180952.html  (03 Oct. 2022)

WETLANDS, LAKES, WATER BODIES

Jammu & Kashmir Wetlands shrunk by 2372 kanal in 10 years: GoI report Over 120 hectares (2373 kanal) of wetland were lost in J&K between 2006-07 and 2017-18, according to a report by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI), a department of the GoI concerned with the coverage and quality of statistics. As a result, the total number of wetlands decreased from 404 in 2006-07 to 403 in 2017-18, a decrease of one wetland. This brought the total amount of wetlands down from 1,64,230 hectares in 2006-07 to 1,64,110 hectares in 2017-18. The main factors lowering the area are excessive habitat destruction, pollution, and heavy human interference. https://www.greaterkashmir.com/todays-paper/front-page/jk-wetlands-shrunk-by-2372-kanal-in-10-years-goi-report  (09 Oct. 2022)

Bhopal 40 butterfly species were identified in a survey by the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal under Bhoj Wetland Butterfly Survey, 2022. The survey was conducted in collaboration with Madhya Pradesh Biodiversity Board, Regional Museum of Natural History, Bhopal, Bhopal Birds and VNS Nature Saviour on Sunday (Sept. 25). https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/bhopal-40-species-identified-under-bhoj-wetland-butterfly-survey-2022  (27 Sept. 2022)

WATER OPTIONS

मध्य प्रदेश  ग्रामीणों की प्यास बुझाने वाला सामुदायिक प्रयास

सतना जिले के केल्हौरा में रहने वाले लोग पानी की अपनी रोजमर्रा की जरूरतों को पूरा करने और अपने मवेशियों के लिए पानी का जुगाड़ करने के लिए कुओं और तालाबों को पुनर्जीवित कर रहे हैं. उनके इस सामुदायिक प्रयास में स्थानीय एनजीओ ने उनकी मददकी है. https://samridhjharkhand.com/article/society/community-effort-to-quench-the-thirst-of-tribal-villagers-in-madhya-pradesh  (09 Oct. 2022)

राजस्थान  लोकगीतों के संसार से दिखता प्रकृति का अद्भुत नजारा  राजस्थान के गीत-संगीत में बादल को खासी जगह दी गयी है। इस क्षेत्र में बादल के मायने अलग हैं जिसका इतना इंतजार शायद ही कहीं और होता हो। बादल के आने की सूचना देने के लिए अलग गीत है तो विदाई देने के अलग। थार में मॉनसून आने की सूचना मांगणियार समुदाय के लोकगायक इशाक खान “आज रे उत्तरीए में हांजी धूंधको रे, बरसे मोंजे जैसोणे रो मेह” लोकगीत गाकर देते हैं। “आज उत्तर दिशा में धुंध भरे बादल और घटाएं उमड़ रही हैं। जैसाणे यानी जैसलमेर (मतलब पूरा पश्चिमी राजस्थान) में मेह बरसेगा।”

राजस्थानी साहित्यकारों और लोकगायकों की मानी जाए तो राज्य में बादलों के सौ से ज्यादा पर्यायवाची शब्द हैं। इशाक बताते हैं, “ठंडी हवा साथ लाने वाले बादलों को ‘कळायण’, रूई जैसे बादलों को ‘सिखर’, छितराए हुए बादलों को ‘छितरी’, अकेला छोटा बादल ‘चूंखो’ और ऐसा काला बादल जिसके आगे सफेद पताका दिखे उसे ‘कागोलड़’ कहते हैं।” यह इत्तफाक ही कहा जाएगा कि वर्ल्ड मेटेरेलोजिकल ऑर्गनाईजेशन (WMO) भी कहता है कि आसमान में करीब सौ तरीके के बादल होते हैं।

राजस्थान के लोकगीत और प्रकृति के संबंधों पर बात हो तो लोग सामान्यतः बरसात की ही चर्चा करते हैं। वाजिब भी है क्योंकि इस प्यासी धरती के लिए बरसात से जरूरी क्या होगा! पर ऐसा है नहीं। यहां के लोकगीतों में सभी ऋतु को ऐसा ही सम्मान मिला है।  ऐसे ही कुछ प्राकृतिक आपदाओं का भी भय सताता रहता है। राजस्थान में कहावत है, “माघ मास जो पड़ै ना सीत, मेहा नहीं जांणियो मीत” मतलब माघ के महीने में अगर सर्दी ना पड़े को आने वाले साल में अकाल का अंदेशा होता है। अकाल मरुभूमि के लिए नया नहीं है। इसीलिए अकालों से बचने के लिए राजस्थान में मानसून का बेसब्री से इंतजार रहता है। लोग गर्मियों में चलने वाली हवाओं के रुख से बरसात के मौसम के अच्छे-बुरे होने का अनुमान लगाते हैं। इसके लिए शगुन शास्त्र विकसित किए गए हैं।

जैसलमेर के सांवता गांव के देगराय मंदिर के अहाते में बैठकर कई बुजुर्ग गर्मी के मौसम में चलने वाली हवाओं से आने वाली बारिश का अंदाजा लगाते हैं। इन्हीं बुजुर्गों में एक कमल सिंह दवाड़ा इन हवाओं और मौसम के आधार पर बनी भविष्यवाणी बताते हैं। “रोहिनी बरसै मृग तपै, कुछ कुछ अद्रा जाय। कहै घाघ सुने घाघिनी, स्वान भात नहीं खाय।।”यदि रोहिणी में पानी बरसे, मृगशिरा तपे और आर्द्रा नक्षत्र में साधारण वर्षा हो जाए तो धान की पैदावार इतनी अच्छी होगी कि कुत्ते भी भात खाने से ऊब जाएंगे। https://hindi.mongabay.com/2022/10/06/nature-in-folk-songs-of-rajasthan/  (06 Oct. 2022)

Chhattisgarh CM announces Water award in the name of Shri Anupam Mishra for the best work on water recharging. https://lalluram.com/cm-bhupesh-baghel-announce-award-in-name-of-anupam-mishra-and-habib-tanvir/  (02 Oct. 2022)

Tamil Nadu Oct 7 to be celebrated for creating awareness of water management CM M.K. Stalin has announced that October 7, which marks the launch of the Parambikulam-Aliyar Project, will be celebrated each year in a manner that would help to create awareness of water resources, water management and of the need for creating the necessary infrastructure. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/october-7-to-be-celebrated-each-year-for-creating-awareness-of-water-management-cm/article65980196.ece  (08 Oct. 2022)

GROUNDWATER

Rice production in jeopardy in the future Poornima Varma Rice exports are leading to an indirect export of water to other countries — a phenomenon known as virtual water trade (VWT). The relative per capita water availability in India is lower than a majority of its major importing countries. The other major exporters of rice, such as Thailand and Vietnam, also have better per capita water availability in comparison to India. Out of 133 countries in which India has positive net rice exports, only 39 countries have relatively lower per capita renewable water resources. Out of these 39 countries, 12 countries are high-income countries with the ability to buy food at a higher price.

The depletion of groundwater resources and the increasing cost of cultivation may put rice production in jeopardy in the future. Unless appropriate measures are taken to save water and the input requirements in the form of wider adoption of water-saving practices such as the system of rice intensification (SRI), the cost of cultivation will increase and production will become unsustainable. This will limit the ability to export and might adversely affect not only global rice security but also domestic rice security. https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/rice-insecurity-the-depletion-of-groundwater-resources-and-the-increasing-cost-of-cultivation-may-put-rice-production-in-jeopardy-in-the-future-8194182/  (07 Oct. 2022)

URBAN WATER

Bengaluru HC orders probe into linking of underground sewage to storm water drain  Observing the allegations made by the petitioners are shocking, the High Court stated that several residential layouts construct sewage drains connecting to a storm water drain in the absence of an underground drainage system.

“It is not permissible for the sewage drains to empty into rajakaluves (storm water drains). Apart from sedimentation and silting, there are various other adverse effects of the same, including waterlogging. No layout could have been sanctioned without adequate sewage facilities provided by the BWSSB (Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board) and if there are no sewerage facilities suitable Sewage Treatment Plants ought to have been established to process the sewage. The NGT order on the establishment of STPs in the apartments would apply to residential layouts too,” the High Court said. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/karnataka-high-court-orders-probe-into-linking-of-underground-sewage-to-storm-water-drain-8192835/  (06 Oct. 2022)

Sarakki Lake, a restoration success story worth emulating? https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/lakes-of-bengaluru-sarakki-lake-a-restoration-success-story-worth-emulating-8197635/  (10 Oct. 2022)

Polluted stream contaminates Doddakallasandra lake A Bengaluru resident, Raghavendra B Pachhapur, who works at ActionAid Association, a  company that promotes ecological justice, stood up for a dying lake in the city’s Doddakallasandra area and alerted officials from local body – the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike or BBMP – to save it from contamination. The man went on Twitter to voice his concerns and said he has filed six complaints so far with no action taken yet. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bengaluru-news/polluted-stream-contaminates-bengaluru-s-doddakallasandra-lake-who-is-to-blame-101665124852092.html (8 Oct. 2022)

Lakes hit with continued encroachments and contamination The lakes face neglect as authorities fail to protect them from encroachments and contamination. One of the few remaining water bodies in the city, the Thalaghattapura lake, remains partially occupied by a private school, and is contaminated by hazardous waste. Despite cleanliness drives by non-profit organisations, the lake has not yet been revived. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bengaluru-news/bengalurus-lakes-hit-with-continued-encroachments-and-contamination-101647350462111.html  (15 March 2022)

Rudra, tunnel boring machine encounters garbage pile 33 feet below earth Rudra, the tunnel boring machine (TBM) of Namma Metro project, is stuck for a reason that officials could never have anticipated. It has hit, not a hard rock, but a massive pile of garbage. The staff, who took a peek through the cutter heads of the machine found a huge garbage pile blocking the way of the giant machine. This was at a depth of 33 feet from the surface.

After much deliberation, they found out that, decades ago, the State government had permitted quarrying in the area. Over the years, private owners, who had properties adjacent to quarry, also started illegal quarrying. “Later, the then civic agency converted the quarry land to a dumping site. Subsequently, people who owned the property started covering the dumping site with debris and sand. They have even sold many properties. On the same land many makeshift structures have come up over the years,” explained Mr. Parvez.

The BMRCL officials said when soil testing was carried out as a prerequisite prior to carrying out civil works, the presence of quarry land was not detected. “There were no records available about this quarry land. More than four to five decades ago, this area could have been the peripheral area of the then core Bengaluru area,” said an official. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/rudra-tunnel-boring-machine-of-namma-metro-stuck-after-encountering-garbage-pile-33-feet-below-earth/article65981444.ece (7 Oct 2022)

Delhi 4 Lakes Have Jumped Queue In Race To Get Legal Cover Having failed to notify even a single wetland so far from the 1,040 in the city, the Delhi Wetland Authority is now distinguishing natural wetlands from man-made ones and has prioritised four Welcome Jheel, Tikri Khurd Lake and Smriti Van in Vasant Kunj for legal protection.

Last August, Delhi Wetland Authority had given unique identification numbers to 1,040 wetlands in the capital whose ownership comes under 16 agencies and departments, such as DDA and revenue department. Their notification as wetland is a tedious task requiring vetting in terms of biodiversity and size, followed by preparation of a brief document on each of them. This is followed by a draft notification that will invite public views before final notification.

In January, the authority prioritised 10 wetlands for notification and later added 10 more to the list, half of which were man-made. Then in February, the lieutenant governor set August as the deadline for recommending the wetlands for notification by the state government and the notification issued by December. The authority has so far been able to recommend only one for notification. The government official also said that the Union environment ministry would notify any wetland straddling inter-state boundaries.

In 2020, the Union environment ministry issued guidelines on implementing the Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules 2017 to provide legal protection to the waterbody and prohibit acts like dumping of waste and discharge of untreated effluents in the lakes and encroachment on the lake area. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/why-these-4-lakes-have-jumped-queue-in-race-to-get-legal-cover/articleshow/94606849.cms  (3 Oct 2022)

Gurugram Several residents fall sick, water contamination suspected Several residents of a housing society in Gurgaon’s Sector 72 have fallen sick in the past two days with nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, prompting the health department to look into complaints of suspected water contamination. The incident was reported in Spaze Privy Society located at Sector 72. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/residents-gurgaon-society-fall-sick-water-contamination-suspected-8190572/  (05 Oct. 2022)

Chandigarh Photo exhibition on Dadu Majra dumping ground A three-day photo exhibition on the plight of communities in Chandigarh’s Dadu Majra dumping ground is underway. The exhibition is organised by Warrior Moms, a mothers’ network for clean air at Punjab Kala Bhawan. The exhibition has several photos clicked by renowned photographer Ritesh Taksande. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/events/chandigarh/photo-exhibition-on-dadu-majra-dumping-ground-highlights-plight-of-its-residents/articleshow/94718771.cms  (08 Oct. 2022)

Noida NGT directs GNIDA to curb water pollution in 93 villages  Akash Vashishtha, Advocate and Counsel for the petitioners Karamvir Singh and Pradeep Kumar, submitted to the court that there are only 16 faecal sludge removing points for 80 villages, which were by no means, adequate. At least one such point for a cluster of 5 villages must be considered by the Greater Noida Authority, they submitted.

The Court further found that only 110-120 MLD is treated against the 174 MLD installed capacity. “It is utmost necessary that all households and other establishments are connected to sewers to make use of laid sewer line otherwise, it will remain defunct. No waste water be allowed to go into pond and within three months, the ponds in question be remediated and water quality be improved,” the court said in the order. The NGT has directed the agencies to explore decentralised sewerage mechanism with the provision of having one faecal sludge receiving point for each village and the septage management to be monitored by statutory regulators. https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/trends/story/ngt-directs-greater-noida-authority-to-curb-water-pollution-in-93-villages-343959-2022-08-06  (06 Aug. 2022)

WATER POLLUTION

Telangana NGT fines Rs 3,800-cr for improper waste management The NGT stated that the chief secretary would be responsible for compliance and directed him to file progress reports every six months. The tribunal directed the Chief Secretary to take several measures as part of future remedial action, including designating a Senior Nodal Officer at the rank of ACS to regularly assess progress, linking existing and upcoming STPs with industries and other bulk users for using treated sewage, remediation of legacy waste sites, use of reclaimed areas for setting up waste processing plants, and establishment of green belts or dense forests to mitigate the adverse impact of waste.

It also directed the state to deal with larger towns with populations exceeding one lakh, such as GHMC, Warangal, Nizamabad, Khammam, Karimnagar, Ramagundam, Mahabubnagar, Nalgonda, Adilabad, Suryapet, Miryalaguda, Siddipet, and Jagtial, on a separate basis for sewage and solid waste management.

The tribunal has been monitoring waste compliance by states in accordance with Supreme Court orders issued in 2014 and 2017. The Chief Secretary filed a presentation with data on sewage and solid waste management on September 28, 2022. According to the data, there has been no significant progress in waste management since the Chief Secretary last appeared before the tribunal, according to the bench.  https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/in-other-news/031022/ngt-fines-ts-rs-36k-cr-for-improper-waste-management.html  (04 Oct. 2022)

According to information shared with the NGT by Telangana Chief Secretary Somesh Kumar on September 28, the current gap in sewage treatment was 1824.42 MLD (million litres per day). Referring to a recent NGT order in which the compensation for untreated liquid waste was determined to be Rs 2 crore per MLD, the total compensation for Telangana’s untreated sewage was fixed at Rs 3648 crore.

The order also noted that the sanctity of natural storm water drains needs to be maintained. “Failure of duties of the State on this aspect has resulted in rivers like Musi in Hyderabad becoming channel to carry sewerage which needs to be remedied. Sewage should be separately managed without mixing it in storm water drains/rivers/waterbodies,” it said. https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/telangana-ordered-pay-rs-3800-crore-waste-management-failure-168553  (04 Oct. 2022)

Gujarat Audit Report Nails Govt for Laxity in Controlling Environmental Pollution Ayaskant Das A CAG audit has revealed the Gujarat government ignored the role of private industries, especially power plants, in contributing to pollution over the years. https://www.newsclick.in/Audit-Report-Nails-Gujarat-Govt-Laxity-Controlling-Environmental-Pollution  (06 Oct. 2022)

Haryana With the local textile industrial units lying shut for two days over their failure to meet the pollution norms set by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), over 6 lakh labourers are fearing loss of livelihood. Sources say in the eventuality of the mills shutting down for long, the labourers will start migrating to their native places. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/in-haryanas-textile-city-6l-workers-plan-to-leave-437590  (03 Oct. 2022)

WATER

Report India must be wary of trading in ‘water futures’ Ironically, India faces drought and flood at the same time in different parts. The centrality of water in agriculture, business and human existence makes this scarcity and uncertainty difficult to ignore. https://www.livemint.com/opinion/online-views/india-is-not-ready-to-trade-water-as-just-another-commodity-yet-11665074439986.html  (07 Oct. 2022)

हिमालयी धाराओं का सूखना खतरे की घंटी अल्मोडा में पिछले 150 सालों में 360 में से 300 धाराएं सूख चुकी हैं। हिमालय और पानी संरक्षण पर काम करने वाली विभिन्न संस्थाओं के सहयोग से प्रकाशित “रिपोर्ट ऑफ वर्किंग ग्रुप 1 इनवेंट्री एंड रिवाइवल ऑफ स्प्रिंग्स इन द हिमालयाज फॉर वाटर सिक्योरिटी” के अनुसार, संपूर्ण भारत में 50 लाख धाराएं हैं जिनमें से 30 लाख अकेले भारतीय हिमालय क्षेत्र (आईएचआर) में हैं। 30 लाख में से आधी बारहमासी धाराएं सूख चुकी हैं अथवा मौसमी धाराओं में तब्दील हो चुकी हैं। रिपोर्ट में कहा गया है कि हिमालय क्षेत्र में छोटी रिहाइश को पानी उपलब्ध कराने वाली कम प्रवाह वाली करीब 60 प्रतिशत धाराएं पिछले कुछ दशकों में पूरी तरह सूख चुकी हैं। सिक्किम की धाराओं में पानी 50 प्रतिशत कम हो गया है। यह ऐसे राज्य के लिए बेहद चिंताजनक है जो पीने के पानी के लिए धाराओं पर पूरी तरह आश्रित है।  https://www.downtoearth.org.in/hindistory/संकट-में-जीवनधारा-61819  (15 Oct. 2018)

MONSOON 2022

Uttar Pradesh Deficient monsoon and excess rains hits farmers With less than normal rains during monsoon and excess rainfall following it, farmers in Uttar Pradesh are staring at heavy losses and an uncertain future. According to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data, 67 of the 75 districts in Uttar Pradesh recorded excess rainfall last week (from Sep 30).

The situation the relief department is dealing with now is in stark opposite of what the situation was almost a fortnight ago. Last month, the relief department was collecting data regarding lack of rainfall during the monsoon. As per IMD data, Uttar Pradesh recorded almost 30 per cent less rainfall this monsoon season (June 1 to September 30). Because of this, 53 of the total 75 districts recorded deficient rainfall. The lack of rainfall too harmed farmers by affecting their Kharif crops. https://www.cnbctv18.com/agriculture/double-whammy-of-deficient-monsoon-and-excess-rains-hits-up-farmers-14897171.htm  (09 Oct. 2022)

7 अक्तूबर, 2022 को भारतीय मौसम विभाग के जिलावार वर्षा आंकड़ों के मुताबिक यूपी के कुल 53 जिलों में अत्यधिक वर्षा (लार्ज एक्सेस रेनफॉल) दर्ज की गई। इनमें 7 जिले ऐसे रहे जिनमें एक ही दिन में औसतन 3.5 मिलीमीटर के बजाए 50 एमएम से अधिक वर्षा हो गई।

आईएमडी के मुताबिक 7 अक्तूबर, 2022 को सर्वाधिक प्रभावित जिलों में श्रावस्ती में सामान्य 3.2 मिलीमीटर वर्षा की तुलना में 101.5 मिलीमीटर वर्षा यानी 3071 फीसदी अधिक वर्षा रिकॉर्ड की गई। वहीं बहराइच जिले में सामान्य से 1327 फीसदी अधिक वर्षा रिकॉर्ड की गई। बहराइच में 7 अक्तूबर को सामान्य वर्षा 4.5 एमएम है जबकि कुल 64.2 एमएम वर्षा रिकॉर्ड की गई। इसी तरह बलरामपुर में सामान्य 5.4 एमएम वर्षा की तुलना में एक ही दिन में 2058 फीसदी (51.8 एमएम) अधिक वर्षा रिकॉर्ड की गई। बाराबंकी में 3.9 एमएम सामान्य वर्षा की तुलना में 54.7 एमएम वर्षा रिकॉर्ड हुई।

खीरी-लखीमपुर में 24 घंटे में सामान्य 3.3 एमएम वर्षा के मुकाबले कुल 70.9 एमएम वर्षा रिकॉर्ड हुई। बरेली में सामान्य 1.6 एमएम वर्षा के मुकाबले 51.7 एमएम वर्षा रिकॉर्ड की गई। पीलीभीत में सामान्य 3.7 एमएम की तुलना में 58 एमएम वर्षा रिकॉर्ड हुई। https://www.downtoearth.org.in/hindistory/natural-disasters/flood/up-up-to-50-times-more-rainfall-than-normal-in-a-day-in-7-districts-of-terai-85351  (07 Oct. 2022)

यूपी में 6 अक्टूबर को सामान्य 1241 फीसदी ज्यादा हुई बारिश जबकि 5 तारीख से पहले हफ्ते में प्रदेश में 52%कम हुई थी बारिश गेहूं के बाद धान का उत्पादन भी कम होगा किसानों को मुआवजे का इंतजार https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rpVVe74LwU  (07 Oct. 2022)

Karnataka Incessant rain wreaks havoc on standing crops in Kalyana https://www.deccanherald.com/state/incessant-rain-wreaks-havoc-on-standing-crops-in-kalyana-karnataka-1151248.html  (07 Oct. 2022)

FLOOD 2022

Report Fighting tidal flooding through community participation in Ernakulam coastal villages Equinoct, a community-sourced modelling solution provider, along with like-minded organisations have launched the first phase of the programme. An elaborate five-pronged programme to address the challenges posed by climate change, especially tidal flooding, and co-create solutions through community participation has been rolled out along the coastal panchayats of Ezhikkara, Kumbalangi, and Puthenvelikkara. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Kochi/fighting-tidal-flooding-through-community-participation-ernakulam-coastal-villages-kerala/article65971600.ece  (05 Oct. 2022)

₹4 lakh crore loss due to rains, floods in 65 years: Report According to a report by National Institute of Disaster Management, the losses due to floods and heavy rains in India in 65 years between 1953 and 2018 has been Rs 4 L crores, half of them in last ten years, and over Rs 1 L cr in just two years of 2013 (Kedarnath floods Rs 47000 Cr) and 2015 (winter rains in South India Rs 57000 Cr). It has has recommended setting up of an Integrated Reservoirs, dams and river basin Management Authority under Home Ministry that would include central, state govt reps and Academics and NGOs. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/4-lakh-crore-loss-due-to-rains-floods-in-65-years-report/articleshow/94607586.cms  (03 Oct. 2022)

Uttar Pradesh बलरामपुर में गांव शहर सब पानी-पानी https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9F0MmPe_Vs  (10 Oct. 2022)

HFL BREACH 2022

SANDRP Blog India’s Rivers Breaching High Flood Levels in SW Monsoon 2022  In SW monsoon 2022, the HFL crossing incidents have occurred at 57 sites consisting of 42 LM and 15 LF sites in 8 river basins. The Ganga basin has seen maximum HFL breach incidents-21 followed by 10 in Mahanadi basin, 7 each in Narmada and Godavari basins, 6 in Cauvery, 3 in Krishna and 1 each in Mahi and East Flowing Rivers (EFR) between Pennar & Kanyakumari. More than half of HFL breach incidents (34) have happened in August followed by 13 in July, 8 in Sept and 2 Oct. https://sandrp.in/2022/10/07/indias-rivers-breaching-high-flood-levels-in-sw-monsoon-2022/  (07 Oct. 2022)

Uttarakhand Following incessant rainfall for past three days in Kumaon region River Kosi at Betalghat in Almora district has crossed old HFL 746.94 m (dated 19.10.2021) at 04:00 hour on 10.10.2022. The present flood level is 746.99 m at 09:00 hour with rising trend. At Syulbari station in Nainital district, the river Kosi has just crossed the old HFL 996.95 m (dated 20.10.2022) at 09:00 hour on 10.10.2022 with rising trend. At 1200 hours the level was 997.1 m.

Uttar Pradesh River Rapti in Ganga basin at Bhigna level forecast site in Shrawasti district has crossed old HFL 120.3 m (15.08.2014) at 09:00 hour on 07.10.2022. Present flood level is 120.52 m at 14:00 hour on 07.10.2022 with stable trend.

River Rapti at Balrampur level forecast site in Balrampur district has crossed old HFL 105.54 m (15.08.2017) at 12:00 hour on 08.10.2022. It is forecasted to reach 105.75 m at 08:00 hour on 09.10.2022 with rising trend. 

River Burhi Rapti at Parsohan ghat level monitoring station has crossed old HFL 96.55 m (dated 29.08.2021) at 01:00 hour on 10.10.2022. Present flood level is 97.05 m at 09:00 hour with rising trend.

Madhya Pradesh River Kunwari in Ganga basin at Bagchini level monitoring site in Morena district has crossed old HFL 161.14 m (dated 04.08.2021) at 13:00 hour on 09.10.2022. The present flood level is 161.38 m at 18:00 hour. The river has also breached the old HFL on 23.09.2022 reaching 161.71 m.

DISASTERS

Uttarakhand 10 Bodies Spotted, 4 Retrieved After Avalanche  Ten bodies were spotted after a 41-member team from the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering was trapped when an avalanche struck at Mount Draupadi Ka Danda-2 peak in Uttarkashi district on Tuesday (Oct. 04), the institute’s principal said. The State Disaster Management Authority has confirmed four deaths so far.  The avalanche struck at an altitude of around 17,000 feet about 8.45 am when the team of 34 trainee mountaineers and seven instructors from Uttarkashi-based NIM was returning after summitting, principal Colonel Amit Bisht said.

The team members got stuck in crevasses following the avalanche, Col Bisht said. Rescue operations have been halted for the night due to darkness and bad weather. Undergoing an advanced training course at NIM, the team of mountaineering trainees along with their instructors had gone to the peak for high altitude navigation, Col Bisht said. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ten-bodies-spotted-four-retrieved-after-avalanche-in-ukhand-nim-principal-3403633#ndtv_related  (04 Oct. 2022)

उत्तरकाशी ज़िले में स्थित द्रौपदी का दांडा-2 चोटी पर हुये एवलांच में कम से कम 10 पर्वतारोहियों की मौत हो गई। नेहरू पर्वतारोहण संस्थान की ओर से दी गई जानकारी में कहा गया कि इस पर्वतारोहण दल में कुल 41 सदस्य थे जिसमें 34 ट्रेनी शामिल थे। मंगलवार (Oct. 04) सुबह 4 बजे चोटी से लौटते हुये ये दल एवलांच की चपेट में आ गया। जानकार इस बात पर चर्चा कर रहे हैं कि क्या इस एवलांच के लिये सितंबर की असामान्य बारिश ज़िम्मेदार है। https://hindi.carboncopy.info/avalanche-in-uttarakhand-at-least-10-mountaineers-dead/  (06 Oct. 2022)

Interesting about different types and processes of avalanches and how and when they become dangerous or not. The Glacier above Chorabari lake upstream of Kedarnath broke onn Oct 1, 2022 at 6.30 am, and debris reached Chorabari, but the water level of Mandakini and Saraswati has not increased.

Trekkers traffic putting pressure on ‘fragile Himalayas’, say experts, call for regulation As many as four avalanches have hit western Himalayas in Uttarakhand in just a fortnight — September 22, October 1, October 2 and October 4. “Snow is nothing but frozen water. More the movement on it, more vulnerable it becomes to breakage. The more we pollute it by human waste and other trash, the forces binding the snow loosen up, thus causing more such mishaps,” said DP Dobhal, former glaciologis at the Doon-based Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology. Experts feel that the number of trekkers and mountaineers trying to scale peaks in the Himalayas should be regulated. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/trekkers-traffic-putting-pressure-on-fragile-himalayas-say-experts-call-for-regulation/articleshow/94668215.cms  (06 Oct. 2022)

The southwest monsoon usually starts to retreat from Uttarakhand in the first week of September. This year though, it rained in the last week of the month which was 20-59 per cent above the average. The rainfall for the state during the entire month was 267.6 per cent above the average figure of 182.4 millimetres. The state otherwise recorded normal rainfall from June 1-September 30.

This is also not the first time that avalanches in Uttarakhand have happened at this time of the year. Four naval personnel were caught in an avalanche October 1 last year on the Trishul peak near the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/monsoon-2022-is-excess-september-rainfall-to-blame-for-the-danda-2-avalanche-in-uttarakhand-85295  (05 Oct. 2022)

A 2.5 magnitude earthquake jolted Uttarkashi district on October 2, just two days before the deadly avalanche hit the group of trainees from Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM) at Draupadi ka Danda. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/uttarkashi-did-mild-earthquake-2-days-ago-trigger-movement-of-snow/articleshow/94692515.cms  (7 Oct. 2022)

Sikkim An avalanche monitoring radar, the first of its kind in India, has been installed in North Sikkim by the Army and Defence Geoinformatics and Research Establishment (DGRE). It has the capability to detect avalanches within three seconds of its trigger and will assist in saving lives of troops and reducing damage to property in super high altitude areas. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/in-a-first-in-india-avalanche-monitoring-radar-installed-in-north-sikkim/article65926554.ece  (24 Sept. 2022)

Nepal Helicopter firms are carrying out unauthorised sightseeing flights over the upper reaches of Mount Everest, Nepalese officials say. Sherpas have expressed concerns that vibrations caused by the helicopters could trigger avalanches. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-36162405  (29 April 2016)

LANDSLIDES

Report India Needs An Urgent Early Warning System For Landslides Landslides are an annual occurrence during monsoons, but developmental activities and the climate crisis have been increasing the risk of these disasters. In 2022, 10 states reported 182 landslide-related fatalities across multiple districts in the monsoon, according to data available with the Ministry of Home Affairs’ National Emergency Response Centre until September 2022.

Scientists at the Geological Survey of India (GSI), a scientific agency established under the Ministry of Mines to conduct geological surveys and studies of India, in collaboration with the British Geological Survey, have been evaluating a prototype to predict landslides in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal and the Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu. If the model proves successful, it is likely to be deployed in some parts of India as early as 2025.

But even as the work progresses, scientists and experts we spoke to pointed to multiple technical challenges that can get in the way of a reliable prediction of landslides. “Early warning systems for landslides are very different from early warning systems for cyclones or floods,” said a senior National Disaster Management Authority official, on the condition of anonymity. “You cannot have an early warning system for landslides without active monitoring. So I am not sure if we can ever develop an early warning system for landslides, the way we can for floods, droughts and cyclones.” Referring to the GSI’s prototype project, he said “We cannot attest to the reliability of such a system. There would certainly be differences in predictions.”

Landslides are among the major hydro-geological hazards that affect large parts of India, particularly in the Himalayas, the Northeastern hill ranges, the Western Ghats, the Nilgiris, the Eastern Ghats and the Vindhyas. About 12.6% of India’s total land area, excluding snow-covered areas, is susceptible to landslide hazards, according to GSI. Between 2015 and 2022, over 3,782 landslides have occured in different states and Union Territories, the Ministry of Earth Sciences reported during the monsoon session of Parliament. The highest number–2,239 landslides–were reported in Kerala, followed by West Bengal with 376 landslides.

Landslides are largely reported to have been triggered by natural causes such as earthquakes or heavy rainfall. But human activity such as construction of roads, buildings and railways, mining and quarrying, and hydropower projects also damage hilly slopes and impact natural drainage by removing soil and vegetation, loosening soil and gravel, and making the hills more susceptible to landslides, IndiaSpend reported in October 2020. https://www.indiaspend.com/development/india-needs-an-urgent-early-warning-system-for-landslides-but-challenges-abound-838036  (08 Oct. 2022)

Jammu & Kashmir The residents of Bassan in Dharmari block of Reasi district were visibly relieved when the skies cleared up after a week of continuous rains. Little did they know that what was about to come would render them homeless. For three consecutive days starting July 29, Bassan saw recurring landslides, something the village had never seen before. https://101reporters.com/article/development/Do_you_think_these_tents_are_worth_living_in  (06 Oct. 2022)

ENVIRONMENT GOVERNANCE

Telangana NGT stops Yadadri power plant works In a major jolt to the State government, the Southern Zone bench of NGT has directed it to stop the commissioning of the Yadadri thermal power plant in the Nalgonda district and the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) of the Ministry of Environment and Forest deferred the decision on granting permission to the Palamur-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (PRLIS). The NGT issued the order after hearing a petition filed by the Conservation of Action Trust of Mumbai.

Reacting to the news, State Energy Minister G Jagadish Reddy alleged that a conspiracy has been hatched against the construction of the Yadadri power plant and added that the State government would take legal recourse. The Environmental Clearance has also been suspended till a further appraisal is done on the basis of directions issued by the Tribunal. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2022/oct/07/ngt-stops-yadadri-power-plant-works-telangana-sees-conspiracy-2505494.html  (07 Oct. 2022)

Jammu & Kashmir Deteriorating landscapes & threatened ecosystems This paper titled ‘Impact of land-use land-cover changes on ecosystem services of Jammu and Kashmir, India’ published in the journal Agro Economist – An International Journal informs that land-use and-land cover (LULC) changes include human activities that impact landscapes and the rate and scale of human alterations are increasing at a rapid rate and spelling doom for the environment and ecosystems. https://www.indiawaterportal.org/articles/deteriorating-landscapes-and-threatened-ecosystems-jammu-and-kashmir  (06 Oct. 2022)

Report Ban on single-use plastic has flopped By October 1, three months since the ban came into effect, little had moved on the ground. IndiaSpend found several banned plastic items in circulation in market places, eateries and other public places in Delhi and Mumbai, and a few were found in circulation in Bengaluru as well. Vendors said that there has neither been any punitive action nor any advisory to stop using these products, and that in fact, these products are available wholesale as usual.

The ban was criticised from its inception for covering too little of what makes up total plastic waste. The share of plastic used for these banned single-use plastic products is less than 2%-3% of the total plastic waste generated in India, the industry estimates. Further, India has not even banned all single-use plastic, experts point out. They argue that the ban is skewed against the smallest segment of the plastic industry, which is the one that needs the maximum hand holding in order to transition away from single-use plastic. Experts say India needs to make the big players accountable for their share of plastic pollution. https://scroll.in/article/1034134/three-months-in-indias-ban-on-single-use-plastic-has-flopped  (04 Oct. 2022)

CLIMATE CHANGE

Study A team of researchers has flagged the changing chemistry of the western region of the Arctic Ocean after discovering acidity levels increasing three to four times faster than ocean waters elsewhere. The team also identified a strong correlation between the accelerated rate of melting ice and the rate of ocean acidification. The study, published on Thursday in ‘Science’, the journal of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, is the first analysis of Arctic acidification that includes data from 1994 to 2020. https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/arctic-ice-melting-climate-change-8186502/  (03 Oct. 2022)

SOUTH ASIA

Nepal People seeking right to free, prior, informed consent Indigenous and Dalit communities in Tanahu have been confronting the reality of being displaced from their lands since 2013, when they found out that their lands are going to be inundated by the Tanahu Hydropower Project. They are at risk of not only losing their land, but also their identity, culture, & way of life, which are intrinsically and inextricably connected to the land & natural resources. https://www.counterview.net/2022/10/climate-risk-of-nepals-hydropower.html (6 Oct 2022)

India- Bangladesh 4 innovations that can be part of flood defences

1. Drainage systems that don’t clog up;
2. Hold slopes together with grasses
3. Increase resistance to riverbank erosion
4. Zero-waste clean drinking water are new technological and nature-based innovations are being developed and introduced in the face of worsening climate change-driven floods

Scientists say the problem will only increase as the impacts of climate change grow. After analysing 35 years of flooding data, a 2018 research paper concluded that rivers in the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna delta will rise above dangerous levels more often in the future, as rainfall becomes more unpredictable due to higher global temperatures.

AKM Saiful Islam, a professor at the Institute of Water and Flood Management in the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology and an author of the study, told The Third Pole that if the world warms by 2 degrees Celsius by 2100, flooding is projected to increase by 24% and 38% in the Brahmaputra and Meghna basins respectively. The world is currently on course to warm by 2.7C by the end of the century.

While technological innovations can provide mitigation and relief, they are only one part of the solution. Khalequzzaman, the professor of geological sciences at Lock Haven University, suggested that countries like India and Bangladesh should look to countries that are members of the Mekong River Commission, building consensus around solutions to floods and through dialogue and cooperation.

“Transboundary rivers do not understand political boundaries. 57% of the Meghna catchment lies with India and the remaining 43% rests with Bangladesh. Without an integrated water resources pact among co-riparian countries in the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna basin floods cannot be managed,” AKM Saiful Islam, a professor at the Institute of Water and Flood Management in the Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology said.

He emphasised that only the sharing of rainfall and hydrological data between India and Bangladesh can really help both countries prepare for more intense flooding as climate change worsens. Earlier this month Bangladesh and India signed a water-sharing agreement for the small transboundary Kushiyara River, but there is still no formal agreement on exchanging flood warnings for all the rivers the two countries share. https://www.thethirdpole.net/en/climate/4-innovations-that-can-be-part-of-india-bangladeshs-flood-defences/  (29 Sept. 2022)

Ganges Waters Treaty: A Test for ‘Golden Chapter’ Ties Although the treaty can be renewed with mutual consent, both sides have to iron out several knotty issues given the current water situation in the Ganges basin region. By Amit Ranjan. https://thewire.in/south-asia/ganges-water-treaty-india-bangladesh-treaty  (5 Oct 2022)

Pakistan Govt to launch ‘Living Indus’ project Federal Minister for Climate Change Senator Sherry Rehman on Thursday announced that parliament has approved the country’s biggest climate initiative — Living Indus — aimed at protecting the cradle of civilisations under serious threat due to environmental degradation & anthropogenic activities. Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Rehman unveiled the salient features of the project which was conceived after thorough consultations with academia, experts, stakeholders & provincial govts.

She said the Indus River was the “mother of the nation” as it watered the entire agriculture system and humanity living around it from the north to the south. “We will have to ensure development in harmony with nature, not against nature,” Rehman stressed. “The Living Indus Initiative will cost $11-17 billion. We will try to manage it through the fiscal facilities available,” Rehman revealed, adding that government will launch it at COP 27 (2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference) as well.“ https://www.icsf.net/newss/pakistan-govt-to-launch-living-indus-project-to-protect-civilisations-vulnerable-to-climate-change/ 

Pakistan farmers stuck in cycle of debt as crops destroyed in floods. https://www.business-standard.com/article/international/pakistan-farmers-stuck-in-cycle-of-debt-as-crops-destroyed-in-floods-122100300934_1.html  (03 Oct. 2022)

ASIA

Mongolia Local people stopped Chinese drilling machinery at the site of Erdeneburen HPP construction On October 4 a video of local herders protesting the Erdeneburen hydroelectric power plant construction in Uvs Province’s Umnogovi sum was circulated online.

It shows men, women, elderly and children preventing the passage of heavy machinery despite being harassed by several policemen.  As predicted by human rights NGOs the population. https://www.transrivers.org/2022/3758/   (09 Oct. 2022)

THE REST OF THE WORLD

Australia How to ensure the world’s largest pumped-hydro dam isn’t a disaster for Queensland’s environment Queensland’s new renewable energy plan relies heavily on two massive pumped hydro projects. Inland from the Sunshine Coast is 2000 MW Borumba Dam  by 2030. This was first proposed last year. The new proposal is 5000 MW Pioneer-Burdekin, west of Mackay, by the 2030s. It would involve relocating residents of the small town of Netherdale, which would be inundated.

– In Pump storage projects the two reservoirs can be built away from the rivers. Pumped hydro has been linked to the introduction of diseases affecting wildlife, as well as invasive plant and animal species. https://theconversation.com/how-to-ensure-the-worlds-largest-pumped-hydro-dam-isnt-a-disaster-for-queenslands-environment-191758  (06 Oct. 2022)

USA Court: Former Edenville Dam owner Mueller lied about 2020 dam failures A US Dist Court establishes that the Edinville dam owner was lying about the facts about the May 19, 2020 twin dam disaster in Michigan. Ignoring an order from the U.S. District Court, Western District, Mueller has withheld, and continues to withhold, documents and communications relevant to the ongoing legal action, court officials wrote.

https://www.ourmidland.com/news/article/Court-rules-former-Edenville-Dam-owner-Mueller-17487040.php  (04 Oct. 2022)

The U.S. Supreme Court opens its new session on Oct. 3, 2022, with a high-profile case that could fundamentally alter the federal government’s ability to address water pollution. Sackett v. EPA turns on a question that courts and regulators have struggled to answer for several decades: Which wetlands and bodies of water can the federal government regulate under the 1972 Clean Water Act? Under this keystone environmental law, federal agencies take the lead in regulating water pollution, while state and local governments regulate land use. Wetlands are areas where land is wet for all or part of the year, so they straddle this division of authority. https://theconversation.com/which-wetlands-should-receive-federal-protection-the-supreme-court-revisits-a-question-it-has-struggled-in-the-past-to-answer-185282  (26 Sept. 2022)

Kenya lifts ban on genetically modified crops in response to drought. https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/kenya-lifts-ban-genetically-modified-crops-response-drought-2022-10-04/  (04 Oct. 2022)  

Compiled by SANDRP (ht.sandrp@gmail.com)

Also see: DRP News Bulletin 03 Oct. 2022 & DRP News Bulletin 26 Sept. 2022.

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