(Feature Image: Thousands of people have been rescued but the inability of rescue teams to navigate disaster-struck areas has left over 60,000 people stranded in Uttarakhand. The Hindu, 19 June 2013)

This week marks ten years since the Uttarakhand flood disaster of June 2013, the worst recorded disaster in the state. The deaths and destruction in the disaster were unprecedented. Large parts of the deaths and destruction were due to man-made causes. Climate Change played its anthropogenic role too as the unprecedented rainfall happened even before the monsoon was set in. Even the Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance of the disaster and ordered halt to all hydropower projects and independent review of them. One of the major human causes that worsened the disaster was the lack of credible disaster prevention and management systems.

One expected that we and particularly our all powerful governments in the state and the Centre would learn lessons from such an unprecedented, such a massive destructive disaster. The first step to that would have been credible reporting of what exactly happened during the disaster, which agencies played what role and how the destruction could have been reduced. That such a report does not exist even today says a lot.

The following selected reports from this week tell their own story. The full page report from The Times of India on June 18, 2023 along with an interview of the Chief Minister about the state of affairs at Kedarnath, where the largest number of people died in the June 2013 disaster, says a lot about how little we have learnt from the disaster. The interview of the Chief Minister only strongly reinforces this as it is clear the CM has no credible answers. The fact that Uttarakhand is ruled by the same party that has been in power at the Centre in nine out of the last ten years and what has been going on in Uttarakhand including around Joshimath all these years and particularly in 2022 and 2023 says a lot. Hope we are not destined to face the worst disasters before we start learning.

Uttarakhand 10 years on, Kedarnath still picking up the pieces A TOI full page scathing story today (June 17 2023) about the state of Chardham yatra at Kedarnath, exactly 10 years after the 2013 disaster. Read the story and the interview of CM along side, which clearly shows he has no answers. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/10-years-on-kedarnath-still-picking-up-the-pieces/articleshow/101056837.cms   (17 June 2023)

10 years after Kedarnath floods, no lessons learnt Nivedita Khandekar Ten years to the date of the anniversary of the tragedy, nothing seems to have changed. https://www.news9live.com/india/10-years-after-uttarakhand-floods-no-lessons-learnt-2180331  (15 June 2023) 

केदारनाथ त्रासदी को दस बरस पूरे हो रहे हैं। इस बरसी पर यह सोचने की जरूरत है कि वह प्राकृतिक विपदा थी, या उसमें इंसानों का भी योगदान था? ऐसे बहुत से सवालों को लेकर एक पर्यावरण-पत्रकार हृदयेश जोशी से बात की गई जिन्होंने 2013 की उस विनाशकारी बाढ़ से आई तबाही को घूम-घूमकर देखा था। https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOiUTPEMozI&t=27s  (15 June 2023)

उत्तराखंड के इतिहास की इस सबसे बड़ी त्रासदी के एक दशक बाद हमने इससे क्या सीख ली हैं, आपदाओं से बचने से क्या तरीक़े अपनाए हैं और आने वाली आपदाओं के लिए हम कितने तैयार हुए हैं, बता रहे हैं वरिष्ठ पत्रकार हृदयेश जोशी और भूवैज्ञानिक एसपी सती. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmcQyYcsuZQ (18 June 2023)

केदारनाथ आपदा को दस साल हो चुके हैं, लेकिन इस आपदा से सबक नहीं लिया, बल्कि आपदाओं को बढ़ाने की दिशा में काम किया है। विशेषज्ञों का मानना है कि आने वाले समय में केदारनाथ से बड़ी आपदाएं आएंगी, जिससे नुकसान भी ज्यादा होगा। https://www.downtoearth.org.in/hindistory/natural-disasters/flood/ten-years-of-kedarnath-disaster-instead-of-learning-things-are-worsening-experts-warn-90120  (19 June 2023)

Badrinath Master Plan: Development script or disaster manual? By Hridayesh Joshi The issue is twofold: On the one hand, there is resentment over the inadequate compensation and rehabilitation among those who have been at the receiving end. On the other, there is a crisis caused by heavy construction and excavation in the sensitive landscapes of the Himalayas.

Locals say that rules were flouted in implementing the master plan and people did not get a chance to register their objections. Geologists are concerned about the sensitive geographical makeup of the Badrinath region and the increasing extreme weather events due to climate change.

SP Sati, geologist said the Badrinath valley is more vulnerable than Joshimath – which has been witnessing continuous landslides over the past few months. According to him, Badrinath is a glacial valley where glaciers existed till about 15 years ago. Sati told this reporter, “In terms of makeup of the land, this valley is not in the shape of a ‘V’ but is in the shape of a ‘U’ and the mountains stand vertically. On both sides, there are glacial moraines on which the town stands. It is loose, unconsolidated glacial material (moraine). Its load carrying capacity is low and it is dangerous to carry out heavy construction here.” https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/environment/badrinath-master-plan-development-script-or-disaster-manual–90038  (14 June 2023)

Renowned environmentalist Chandi Prasad Bhatt of Chipko movement appeals PM Modi to take notice of unscientific construction around Badrinath Dham shrine damages the water sources, streams and fragile hills there. https://uttarakhandhimalaya.in/padma-bhushan-chandi-prasad-bhatt-hurt-on-the-plight-of-badrinath-dham-told-his-pain-to-prime-minister-modi-read-from-bhatts-pen/  (19 June 2023)

मुआवजे की धीमी, जटिल प्रक्रिया से परेशान जोशीमठ के लोग वैसे तो जोशीमठ आपदा के प्रभावित परिवारों के स्थाई पुनर्वास के लिए 22 फरवरी 2023 को नीति बनकर तैयार हो चुकी है। इसके अनुसार प्रभावित परिवारों को मुआवजा भी दिया जा रहा है लेकिन इस नीति को लेकर जोशीमठ की जनता में असमंजस की स्थिति बनी हुई है। साथ ही, मुआवजे के लिए आवेदन की लम्बी कागजी कार्यवाही और कर्मचारियों की कमी के कारण इस प्रक्रिया में हो रही देरी की वजह से आवेदनकर्ताओं को तमाम तरह की समस्याओं का सामना करना पड़ रहा है। https://hindi.mongabay.com/2023/06/15/slow-pace-of-compensation-worries-people-in-joshimath-uttarakhand/  (15 June 2023)

HYDRO POWER PROJECTS

SANDRP Photo Blog Yamuna River A Year After Vyasi HEP Vyasi HEP on Yamuna River is latest example of how the hydro power projects being pushed in the name of clean and green energy sources are failing on all fronts and proving a costly affair for the river, people and the nation.

The people who still think that the Run of the River (RoR) projects do not require a dam and cause no submergence of land; must visit the Vyasi HEP to witness the about 4 km long reservoir behind the 86-meter tall and 200-meter-long dam there.  https://sandrp.in/2023/06/17/photo-blog-yamuna-river-a-year-after-vyasi-hep/  (17 June 2023)

Himachal Pradesh Pangi-Lahaul road to be turned into double-lane NH BRO has submitted a detailed project report for the road stretch from Udaipur to Tindi to ‘Project Deepak’ recently. It is also in the process of preparing a DPR for two remaining stretches, from Shour to Killar and from Tandi to Thirot, which are expected to be prepared by August. Land acquisition and forest clearance are being processed simultaneously for which BRO officials at Udaipur are regularly pursuing the matter with the concerned civil administration, as commencement of work is conditional to pace of land acquisition and forest clearance by the civil administration.

Upgradation of the road and bridges will also facilitate setting up of numerous run-ofthe-river hydro-electric projects (HEP) in the Chenab River in Himachal Pradesh. The 500 MW Duggar hydropower project being planned by the NHPC will be the largest in the area. In addition, state SJVN has been awarded to construct Bordang, Purthi, SachKhas and Reoli-Dugli hydro projects in the area. The NHPC is in close coordination with the BRO for surfacing of unmetalled stretches of the road and upgradation of the bridges to facilitate early construction of the projects. https://infra.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/roads-highways/road-connecting-pangi-and-lahaul-to-be-turned-into-double-lane-nh/101022595   (15 June 2023)

Arunachal Pradesh Around June 15, 2023, there was a breach in guard wall of the under construction 2000 MW Lower Subansiri Hydropower project, leading to water entering the power house. NDRF and SDRF personnel were active, reports say and also say that the upstream downstream road from the project may have been damaged. See the Times Mirror, East Mojo, News18 and other reports. https://www.timesnownews.com/videos/mirror-now/society/breaking-news-heavy-rainfall-damages-temporary-wall-in-lower-subansiri-hydro-electric-project-video-100994450   (14 June 2023)

Surprising to see this piece from Bloomberg. There is nothing new here. It should have at least mentioned the agitations, the safety issues, the changes made in the project following agitation and the exorbitantly high cost of power from the project.  https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-set-to-start-mega-hydropower-project-near-china-border-4117046  (13 June 2023)

Kerala Thirteen potential locations have been identified for PSPs in Kerala with total capacity of 6500 MW and the government is hoping to develop them in a joint venture with THDCL India Ltd, Additional Chief Secretary (Power), said on June 9, 2023. These projects are envisaged as part of existing hydroelectric projects of the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB). The pre-feasibility reports for two of the locations — Idukki reservoir and Pallivasal — are ready, a KSEB official said. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kerala-identifies-13-locations-for-pumped-storage-projects/article66951238.ece  (09 June 2023)

NHPC NHPC to seeks ₹50 billion from Japanese banks NHPC is in talks with three of Japan’s largest banks, including Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, to borrow as much as ₹50 billion ($609m) in yen-denominated loans to fund its expansion into solar power.

-“Foreign lenders are inclined to fund solar,” finance director Rajendra Prasad Goyal said in an interview. “We are trying to avail of that opportunity.” Unlike hydropower projects, which are developed in a cost-plus model due to the inherent challenges in construction, solar and wind projects are awarded in closely fought auctions, with participants undercutting opponents’ bids displayed live on an electronic screen.

-The company expects yen-denominated debt to be cheaper than domestic loans. This is critical for the highly competitive solar market in India, where NHPC is building out 1.2 gigawatts of solar projects to widen its green energy portfolio. https://www.livemint.com/economy/indias-hydropower-firm-seeks-rs-50-billion-from-japanese-banks-11686806016910.html  (15 June 2023)

The board of directors of NHPC according to the order by the Ministry of Power has appointed Uttam Lal as director (Personnel), the company announced through an exchange filing. Lal will take charge of the post from June 13 and will continue till May 31, 2026. https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/nhpc-board-of-directors-appoints-uttam-lal-as-director  (13 June 2023)

MoEF Agenda of the EAC on River Valley Projects to be held on June 27, 2023:

1. Chitravathi (Open loop) Pumped Storage Hydro-Electric Project (500 MW) in 136 ha at Village Peddakotla, Tehsil Tadimarri, Dist Ananthapuramu, Andhra Pradesh by New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh Ltd– Environmental Clearance

2. Koyna-Nivakane (Closed loop) Pumped Storage Project (2450 MW) in an area of 312.84 ha at Village Marathwadi, Tehsil Patan, District Satara, Maharashtra by M/s Adani Green Energy Limited – Terms of References

3. Gujjili (Closed loop) Pumped Storage Hydro Electric Project (1500 MW) in an area 272.41 ha at Village Duddikonda & Bheemavaram, Taluka Ananthagiri and Araku Valley, District Alluri Sitharama Raju, Andhra Pradesh by M/s New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh Ltd. (NREDCAP) – Terms of References

4. Yaganti (Closed loop) Pumped Storage Project (1000 MW) in an area 263.1 ha at Village Katikavanikunta and Pasupula, Taluka Banaganapalli, Nandyal district of Andhra Pradesh by M/s New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh Ltd. (NREDCAP) – Terms of References

5. Hasdeo Bango (Open loop) Pumped Storage Hydro-Electric Project (1200MW) in 195 ha at Village Khirati, Tehsil Podi-Uparoda, District Korba, Chhattisgarh by Chhattisgarh State Power Generation Company Ltd– Terms of References

6. Palamuru Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (Phase II: Irrigation) in Districts of Mahbubnagar, Rangareddy & Nalgonda, Telangana by M/s Irrigation and CAD Department, Government of Telangana – Reconsideration Environmental Clearance

7. Shoma (Closed loop) Pumped Storage Project (2400 MW) in an area 335.82 ha at Village Bhitari and Shoma, Tehsil Robertsganj, District Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh by M/s Torrent Power Limited – Terms of References

8. Saidongar (Closed loop) Pumped Storage Project (1200 MW+3000 MW) in an area 412.28 ha at Village Dhak, Kusur and Pali T. Kothal Khalathi, Tehsil Mawal and Karjat, District Raigad, Maharashtra by M/s Torrent Power Ltd – Terms of References

9. Chikni (Open loop) Pumped Storage Project Pumped Storage Project (325 MW) in an area of 31.1 ha at Village Chinki, Tehsil Oudgi, District Surajpur, Chhattisgarh by M/s Chikini Energy Private Limited– Terms of References

10. Arunachalam (Closed loop) Pumped Storage Project (900 MW) in an area 70 ha at Taluk Harur and Thandrampet, district Dharamapuri and Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu by M/s Volthills Private Limited – Terms of References https://parivesh.nic.in//utildoc/6167149_1686934331584.pdf 

DAMS

Maharashtra Gargai Dam: Civic body throws tribals under the bus Will the removal of anthropogenic interference like the farming, highway, etc and building a dam at the spot instead, help improve the habitat? BMC certainly things so. The BMC, in reply to the objections raised by the NBWL to the Gargai dam project, has made such shocking claims. The project will submerge over 4 lakh trees, and the Mah govts wants to push it. https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/gargai-dam-civic-body-throws-tribals-under-the-bus-23292186  (14 June 2023)

Ban on drawing water from dams lifted for 3 days The ban imposed on lifting water from Panchaganga and Bhogawati rivers for irrigation purposes by the irrigation department has been eased for three days, till Tuesday (June 20) midnight, due to the aggressive stand of the farmers. Water level in all dams, including Dudhaganga and Radhanagari, across the district has reduced. And as per the priority order issued by the state government, water in the reservoirs has to be kept reserved for drinking. Accordingly, the irrigation department had ordered indefinite closure on water lifting for agricultural usage. However, farmers became anxious as their crops started drying due to lack of water. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolhapur/ban-on-drawing-water-from-dams-lifted-for-three-days/articleshow/101077850.cms  (18 June 2023)

Himachal Pradesh Illegal muck dumping in nullahs feeding Bhakra reservoir continues Despite being under the scanner of the state High Court, illegal muck dumping in the nullahs that feed the Bhakra dam reservoir on the Kiratpur-Manali national highway continues unabated. The muck is mostly dumped at various spots under the Ghumarwin and Jhanduta tehsils of Bilaspur district. The Bilaspur-based Fourlane Visthapit and Prabahavit Samiti (FVPS) has now written to Bilaspur deputy commissioner Abid Hussain Sadiq demanding an inquiry into the illegal muck-dumping. Along with the letter, the FVPS has submitted evidence in the form of photographs that show illegal muck-dumping at various spots in the district to the DC. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/shimla/illegal-muck-dumping-in-nullahs-feeding-bhakra-reservoir-continues/articleshow/101077590.cms  (18 June 2023)

Madhya Pradesh CWC To Examine Karam dam Design Water Resources Department (WRD) has roped in Central Water Commission (CWC) for vetting of design of Karam Dam (Dhar) and give guidance. In the monsoon season, dam will not be closed and the breach developed during last monsoon will remain intact. “This means that dam water will flow like river during monsoon season. Construction work of dam will commence after monsoon season,” said a senior officer of WRD. The WRD has inked a MoU with CWC, which has been tasked to see all the aspects of the dam and go through the dam design. The dam will be reconstructed on the basis of CWC design. https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/bhopal-cwc-to-examine-karam-dam-design  (17 June 2023)

Report बांधों के निर्माण में तेजी के बावजूद जलाशयों में मौजूद पानी में आई कमी भले ही पिछले 20 वर्षों में नए बांधों के निर्माण के चलते वैश्विक स्तर पर जलाशयों की कुल भंडारण क्षमता में इजाफा हो रहा है, लेकिन इसके बावजूद जलाशयों में मौजूद पानी की मात्रा घट रही है। इसका मतलब है कि जल संसाधनों पर बढ़ते दबाव को दूर करने के लिए केवल ज्यादा से ज्यादा बांधों का निर्माण ही काफी नहीं है। यह जानकारी टेक्सास ए एंड एम यूनिवर्सिटी के अध्ययन से जुड़े प्रमुख शोधकर्ता हुइलिन गाओ के नेतृत्व में किए अध्ययन में सामने आई है। इस अध्ययन के नतीजे अंतराष्ट्रीय जर्नल नेचर कम्युनिकेशन्स में प्रकाशित हुए हैं। इस रिसर्च में भारत के सिंधु बेसिन का जिक्र करते हुए लिखा है कि वहां भूजल में गिरावट आ रही है। वहां बढ़ती इंसानी गतिविधियों के चलते सतह और भूजल दोनों जगहों पर मौजूद जल संसाधन पर दबाव बढ़ा है। रिसर्च के मुताबिक भारत में जिस तरह से पानी की मांग बढ़ रही है उसके कारण पैदा होने वाले तनाव को नए जलाशयों के जरिए भी दूर नहीं किया जा सकेगा। https://www.downtoearth.org.in/hindistory/water/water-crisis/global-water-reservoir-volumes-decline-despite-construction-of-dams-boom-90030  (14 June 2023)

INTERLINKING OF RIVERS

Ken-Betwa Interlinking Clubing of Nauradehi & Durgavati sanctuaries Madhya Pradesh is poised to get its seventh tiger reserve with the state government going forward with the notification of Nauradehi and Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuaries as a combined protected area. This new reserve, spanning an expansive 2,339 sq km and around 20km from Bhopal, is yet to be officially named and will straddle three districts — Narsinghpur, Sagar, and Damoh. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) granted preliminary approval for the creation of this new tiger reserve during a recent meeting of its technical committee, confirmed J S Chouhan, the state’s chief wildlife warden.

Establishment of this reserve is a crucial requirement for the Ken-Betwa River linking project. During the third meeting of the Ken-Betwa steering committee in New Delhi, assurances were given that the notification would be issued quickly. J N Kansotia, principal secretary (forest), said that the notification process is currently underway and will be completed soon. Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary, spanning around 1,197 sq km, is the largest wildlife sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh. It acts as a crucial corridor connecting Panna and the Satpura Reserves, indirectly linking Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve through Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhopal/mp-govt-to-club-nauradehi-durgavati-sanctuaries-to-create-states-7th-tiger-reserve/articleshow/101032414.cms  (16 June 2023)

INTERSTATE WATER DISPUTES

Cauvery Water Disputes On June 16, 2023, Karnataka has told Cauvery Water Management Authority meeting that the state is not in a position to release the June quota of 9.19 TMC water to lower riparian TN as the reservoirs have low storage. It also said that since Mettur had 71 TMC water stored as on June 1, 2023, TN is in comfortable position till mid Aug. CWMA chair suggested formulating of a distress formula for deficit years.  https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/cauvery-water-to-tamil-nadu-karnataka-says-low-storage-in-dams-1228461.html  (17 June 2023)

Sutlej Water Disputes Punjab opposes BBMB move to give water to HP, writes to PM Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann on June 14, 2023, in a letter to PM, opposed the ‘unilateral decision’ of the Centre to waive the conditions of seeking a NOC for drawing water by Himachal for irrigation schemes. In a letter to PM Modi, the CM said it is unfortunate that the Union government had issued directions to the chairman of Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) in this regard on May 15, 2023. He said vide these directions the Central govt has directed the chairman, BBMB, to do away with the present mechanism of NOC with the condition that the cumulative withdrawal by the Himachal govt is kept below their analogous share in power i.e. 7.19% as decided by the Supreme Court.  https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/punjab-cm-opposes-centre-s-decision-to-waive-noc-for-water-drawn-by-himachal-pradesh-for-irrigation-schemes-101686768602230.html  (15 June 2023)

Maharashtra-Goa 330cr for revival of joint irrigation project At the sixth meeting of the Control Board of the Tilari Inter-State Dam Project, an expenditure of Rs 330 crore was approved on June 17 2023 for the revival of canals of the Inter-State Irrigation Project of Maharashtra and Goa. CM Ekanth Shinde, deputy CM and water resources minister Devendra Fadnavis, Goa CM Dr Pramod Sawant and water resources minister Subhash Shirodkar were present at the meeting. Canal works of the Tilari project were done 30 to 35 years ago. Therefore, it is decided to revive the dilapidated canals. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/330cr-for-revival-of-maha-goa-joint-irrigation-project/articleshow/101077037.cms  (18 June 2023)

RIVERS AS NATIONAL WATERWAYS

Delhi Navy boat stuck in Yamuna sewage  An Indian Navy boat, deployed to help clean the river Yamuna in Delhi, is stuck in the very sewage it aims to remove. The Navy’s ‘Barasingha’ has been docked for over a week at the riverbanks, trapped in the muck and waste in the Yamuna. Visuals show the boat stationed at a spot, with two Navy officers standing guard near the fetid river. The vessel, equipped for desilting, is unable to move because the water is too shallow; any boat needs at least two metres depth to move but because of decades of pollution, the depth is far less in parts of the river. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcHJ0vy0Euo  (14 June 2023) यमुना में इतनी गाद भरी है कि इंडियन नेवी की नाव ही फंस गई. अब अधिकारी नाव को निकालने की मशक्कत में जुटे हैं. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yUUP7kuZrg  (14 June 2023)

The LG office refuted reports that the boat was “stuck” in mud or that it was meant for dredging. The desilting would cover a 22 km stretch from Wazirabad to Okha, believed to be the dirtiest and most toxic part. The boat also aimed to survey and monitor the clean-up amid plans to set up an inland waterway in the Yamuna. Now the sludge has to be dredged just so the boat can move and do its job, officials said. The dredging exercise is likely to be completed by June 20. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/navy-boat-brought-in-to-assess-yamunas-waterway-potential-docked-at-banks-4120138  (16 June 2023)

25 मई को वहां से चली यह नाव तीन जून को यहां पहुंच गई थी। चूंकि सिग्नेचर ब्रिज से आगे यमुना किनारे ट्रेलर के जाने का रास्ता नहीं था तो इस नाव को वहीं पर रस्सियों से बांधकर खड़ा कर दिया गया है। सप्ताह भर पहले पूरा हो चुके इस सर्वे में सामने आया है कि यमुना में नाव के निर्बाध परिचालन के लिए पानी की न्यूनतम गहराई 1.7 (लगभग दो मीटर) होनी चाहिए जबकि सर्वे में कहीं यह गहराई 0.9 मीटर मिली तो कहीं चार मीटर तक। ऐसे में अब 11 किमी के इस हिस्से में पानी की गहराई के न्यूनतम स्तर को बनाए रखने के लिए उसमें से गाद निकाली जा रही है। यह कार्य अगले सप्ताह तक पूरा हो जाने की संभावना है। https://www.jagran.com/delhi/new-delhi-city-ncr-boat-will-run-in-yamuna-river-before-najafgarh-drain-in-delhi-23443782.html  (17 June 2023) https://www.livehindustan.com/ncr/story-indian-navy-boat-who-brought-to-clean-yamuna-river-stuck-in-sewage-8303322.html  (14 June 2023) Indian Navy boat deployed to measure depth of Yamuna river in Delhi to explore feasibility of commercial waterway plan. (Dainik Bhaskar 16 June 2023)

IRRIGATION

Jharkhand Of 94 beneficiaries tracked by Express, just 17 were using per drop-more crop, minister says will act. https://indianexpress.com/article/express-exclusive/express-investigation-irrigation-scheme-unravels-in-jharkhand-aadhaar-misused-funds-claimed-farmers-clueless-8653463/  (11 June 2023)

Tamil Nadu Farmers opposing concrete-lining of LBP canal in Erode withdraw fast  Over 25 farmers, who were opposing the concrete-lining of the Lower Bhavani Project (LBP) canal, withdrew their fast here on Tuesday following assurance from Minister for Housing and Urban Development S. Muthusamy that their demands would be taken up with the State government. A section of farmers, under the banner Keel Bhavani Pasana Pathukappu Iyakkam, opposed the ₹ 709.60 crore extension, renovation and modernisation of the canal project and began their fast at Koorapalayam, near Perundurai, on June 7. They wanted the project to be dropped and instead carry out repair works to the damaged sluices and cross masonry structures in the canal. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/farmers-opposing-concrete-lining-of-lbp-canal-in-erode-withdraw-fast/article66964876.ece  (13 June 2023)

Rajasthan About 100 feet part of Mehran Khan Minor II in Nachna area of Jaisalmer washed away due to excess water release from Indira Gandhi canal on June 09. The minor was already silted up and filled with solid waste and no inspection was done before releasing the water. The discharges were stopped and damaged portion fixed only on June 11. https://www.bhaskar.com/amp/local/rajasthan/jaisalmer/news/loss-of-thousands-of-gallons-of-water-canal-department-officials-got-the-repairs-done-131396072.html  (14 June 2023)

RIVERS

How floodplains are being managed? Another state where floodplain zoning (it has lapsed now after Fadnavis as CM canceled it) has been enforced to a certain extent through regulations is Maharashtra, says Himanshu Thakkar, Coordinator at the South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers, and People (SANDRP). The irrigation department issued guidelines in 1989 requiring floodlines to be marked for all the rivers. “We cannot floodproof any land. There is a misconception that flood control and floodproofing is possible. Floods will happen. The only question is when, how frequently, and what kind of flood. Secondly, floods are not equal to disaster if you follow proper policies as to what kind of activities and structures are allowed in these areas,” shares Thakkar. https://india.mongabay.com/2023/06/explainer-what-are-floodplains-and-how-have-they-been-managed-in-india/  (14 June 2023)

Jharkhand CAC Charges NTPC Rs 3000 Cr for Illegal Mining  This is the biggest fine ever imposed on any public sector company in the history of India. The Central Advisory Committee of the MoEF&CC has taken action on the complaint of Mantu Soni, a Barkagaon resident. Soni had informed the ministry explaining how the Maharatna company is carrying out illegal mining by destroying the area’s lifeline Dumuhani Nala (river) in violation of the conditions imposed for mining in NTPC’s Pakri Barwadih Coal Project.

The Committee, after detailed deliberations on the alleged violation of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, recommended setting up a sub-committee of the FAC to visit the area to see the hydrological impact of the area vis-a-vis mining operations of the user. The sub-committee was mandated to study the climate change, assessment and impact of Dumuhani Nala and the area in particular by Triveni-Sainik Mining Private Limited in general. The investigation was done after receiving a complaint regarding illegal mining in 100 acres of area in violation of the conditions of forest clearance. https://indiacsr.in/forest-ministry-charges-ntpc-rs-3000-crore-for-illegal-mining-in-jharkhand/  (17 June 2023)

Gujarat Newly built bridge collapses A newly built bridge on the Tapi district’s Mindhola River, which was ready for inauguration, collapsed on Wednesday (June 14) morning. The 100 metre long and 8.40 metre wide bridge was constructed under the Mukhya Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. The estimated construction cost is about Rs 2 crore.  Surat-based Akshay Construction, which was given the contract to build the bridge, has been blacklisted for using substandard concrete, a government statement said. The bridge that was earlier at the site did not have the required height. During monsoon, it got submerged, said locals. The construction of the new bridge began in 2021. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/surat/bridge-collapses-in-tapi-cm-orders-high-level-probe-three-suspended-and-firm-blacklisted-8663461/  (15 June 2023)

GANGA Uttar Pradesh And a river no longer runs through it The story of the slow death of the Sai River, the struggles of the villages around it, and of climate change in Hardoi district. Seen through the lens of the two main persons involved in those struggles. https://ruralindiaonline.org/en/articles/and-a-river-no-longer-runs-through-it/  (17 June 2023)

West Bengal 1st International Delta Summit to Focus on River Sustainability The first International Delta Summit will be held at the IPCL Auditorium, in Salt Lake, from June 16 to 17 to prepare a strategy for a sustainable river delta management plan and to increase awareness about rivers and their relevance. Renowned international experts and scientists will share their insights into the urgency and vulnerability of deltas, discuss and explore best practices, identify gaps and challenges and foster collaboration. The summit is also expected to discuss various themes, including climate change adaptation, sustainable infrastructure, disaster risk reduction, water management, biodiversity conservation and community engagement. https://www.newsclick.in/first-international-delta-summit-kolkata-focus-river-sustainability  (14 June 2023)

Bihar Bridge collapse: HC seeks ATR from govt Taking a serious view of the collapse of the constructed part of the bridge over the river Ganga in Bhagalpur, the Patna High Court on Wednesday (June 14) directed the SP Singhla Construction Private Limited, the firm awarded contract by the Bihar Rajya Pul Nirman Nigam Limited, to submit its study report relating to construction work at the site on specific points, giving details of the causes that may have caused the collapse.

The court has asked the company to provide details regarding the nature of stream flowing into the site, nature and behaviour of soil strata for foundation, construction problem existing, impact on environment due to collapse, detailed project report (DPR) relating to ground survey, including geologist certificate detailing geo-strata, the report relating to profile of The river bed, its rock type and the foundation found beneath the construction site, soil exploration foundation details etc.

The court has also sought hydrological data, model studies, purchase receipts with GST details of materials used in the construction, fee incurred on obtaining expert reports from different agencies before start of the work, and later from time to time and the company’s audited balance sheet and annual report submitted before the registrar of companies relating to the present project. It has also asked the state government to submit its action taken report on the next date of hearing, which is June 21, and the managing director the firm, SP Singhla Construction Private Limited, to be present along with his expert team in the court that day. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/patna-news/patna-high-court-directs-sp-singhla-construction-to-submit-study-report-on-bhagalpur-bridge-collapse-in-pil-hearing-101686760861167.html  (14 June 2023)

YAMUNA Delhi Dyeing units give river the blues The drains in Ghazipur village have turned blue due to the discharge by illegal dyeing units of untreated effluents rich in phosphate and ammonia compounds. A strong odour also emanates from the drains. This toxic water flows into the Yamuna and is one of the causes of the frothing seen in the river. Ghazipur is not the only area where this is happening. Activists claim that over 500 illegal dyeing units operate in non-conforming areas across the city with hundreds of others doing business in the National Capital Region.

Activist Varun Gulati, who has lodged several complaints with the civic authorities and National Green Tribunal against these illegal dyeing units, said, “The drains from Garhi Mandu directly pollutes the Yamuna in its proximity. Though 13 units were sealed in 2020, they have reopened. In other parts of Delhi too, the dyeing units reopen sometime after being closed down. They used to exist in a big cluster earlier but are now mostly scattered.” Bhim Singh Rawat, a Yamuna activist and associate coordinator, SANDRP said, “Rivers can dilute organic pollutants like sewage depending on the flow. However, inorganic pollutants like chemicals released by industries cannot be diluted and severely impact aquatic life.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/dyeing-units-give-yamuna-the-blues/articleshow/101005370.cms  (15 June 2023)

For G20 ‘Beautification’, Poor Families Living Along the Yamuna Face Eviction.  https://thewire.in/rights/in-photos-for-g20-beautification-poor-families-living-along-the-yamuna-face-eviction  (15 June 2023)

Fear of eviction haunts makeshift schools on floodplains With the floodplains of the Yamuna in Delhi being cleared of homes, farmland, and nurseries to make way for the Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) riverfront project, makeshift schools that have come up along the floodplain for children who live in the area have also harboured a fear of eviction. A senior DDA official confirmed that the area where the school is located would also fall under the floodplain restoration project, adding that “all encroachments” on the Yamuna floodplain are to be removed. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/eviction-fear-floodplains-yamuna-schools-8668039/  (17 June 2023)

Haryana Irrigation department claims to supply 3622 cusec water Hathnikund barrage when the total availability is 3213 cusec?

As per Dainik Bhaskar report dated 18.06.23 the total water availability at Hathini Kund Barrage, Yamuna Nagar is 3213 cusec. The demand of Haryana state is 4500 cusec and is being supplied 2450 cusec via Western Yamuna Canal. Similarly, the demand of Uttar Pradesh state is 2000 cusec but is being supplied 411 cusec through Eastern Yamuna Canal. Similarly, Delhi is being given 761 cusec for drinking water supply. Thus, the total amount of water being supplied stands as 3622 cusec.

As per the demand placed including 352 cusec of environmental flows in Yamuna downstream as mandated by the NGT, the barrage is supposed to have 7613 cusec of water. The report does not mention amount of water being release in the river to maintain e-flows.

Faridabad Industries in residential areas: NGT orders probe The NGT has constituted a joint committee comprising officials from the district administration SPCB and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to inspect residential areas of Faridabad and ascertain the permissibility of operation of industries in residential and non-conforming areas. The three-member panel will also check industrial units’ status of compliance on consent to operate (CTO).

The committee should submit a factual report within two months, the NGT bench of judicial magistrate Sudhir Agarwal and expert member Dr A Senthil Vel directed on May 31. The order was released on Tuesday (June 13). The directions came after the tribunal took up a petition filed by Deepak Tripathi, a resident of Faridabad’s Kapda Colony, in May this year.

According to the petition, industries operating in residential areas of Faridabad are polluting the environment. “Certain industrial units are running in residential areas of Kapda Colony, Air Force Road and NIT Faridabad, emitting huge clouds of smoke, contaminating water, and creating noise pollution. These industries are using heavy generators and other machines to cause water, air and noise pollution and are not only damaging the environment but also posing health hazards to the locals,” the petition stated. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/industries-in-fbd-residential-areas-ngt-orders-probe/articleshow/101005696.cms  (15 June 2023)

Noida Remove illegal colonies from Hindon: DGC The minutes of the district Ganga committee meeting, released on Friday (June 9), said that the illegal structures in Chhijarsi and Sorkha areas of Hindon must be demolished. “The occupants of these houses directly dump their sewage and other waste into the river, necessitating their removal. The committee has set a deadline of 10 days to prepare an action plan for removing the illegal constructions and reviving the rivers. Additionally, the occupants residing on the floodplains of Hindon will be relocated and rehabilitated to other suitable locations,” it said.

Akash Vashishtha, an environmental activist and lawyer who is a member of the committee, said that the Ganga committee possesses statutory powers, and its orders must be enforced by all authorities, including Noida, Greater Noida, and the UPPCB. “The administration, pollution control board, Noida Authority, and the irrigation department are urged to take immediate measures to protect and revive the rivers,” he added. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/noida-news/remove-illegal-colonies-from-hindon-ganga-committee-101686332667431.html  (09 June 2023)

Mathura Admin seeks public’s suggestions to Make river pollution free Taking the first step in making the Yamuna pollution free, the district administration has invited suggestions from people under the ‘Jan Samvaad’ programme, officials said on Sunday (June 18). The first phase of the initiative commenced a couple of days ago, the officials said, adding that the Namami Gange Programme authorities would also be approached for funds. Municipal Commissioner Anunay Jha said 31 drains in Mathura and Vrindavan that directly discharge water and other pollutants into the river have been tapped.  https://www.outlookindia.com/national/mathura-admin-seeks-public-s-suggestions-to-make-yamuna-pollution-free-news-295837  (18 June 2023)

RIVERS BIODIVERSITY

Bihar स्थानीय लोगों का कहना है कि अवैध शिकार और नदी के तल को गहरा करने के लिए चल रहे यंत्रीकृत ड्रेजिंग के कारण दोनों गंगा डॉल्फिन मारी गईं। वहीं विशेषज्ञों का मानना है कि नदी में होने वाले ध्वनि प्रदूषण के कारण भी डॉल्फिन का जीवन तनाव में आ रहा है। दिनों-दिन गंगा में स्टीमर और बड़े जहाजों की संख्या बढ़ रही है। इस वजह से एक तो ध्वनि प्रदूषण और दूसरा चोट लगने से होने वाली मृत्यु का खतरा भी बढ़ जाता है।

-भागलपुर के डॉल्फिन मैन डॉ. सुनील चौधरी कहते हैं कि डॉल्फिन की सबसे अधिक मृत्यु मछुआरों के जाल में फंसकर होती है। डैम या बैराज बनाने से भी यह जीव प्रभावित हुआ है। साथ ही सहायक नदियों में पानी कम होने के कारण गंगा के प्रवाह में कमी आ गई है जो सबसे बड़ा खतरा है। डॉल्फिन को प्रवाह भी चाहिए और नदी की गहराई भी। https://www.amarujala.com/bihar/patna/gangetic-river-dolphins-death-in-bihar-poaching-and-noise-pollution-in-water-big-threat-2023-06-03  (03 June 2023)

FISH, FISHERIES, FISHERFOLKS

Jharkhand Dead fish recovered at Jubilee Lake for second day Fishes have once again been found dead on a large scale in Jayanti Sarovar inside Jubilee Park of Jamshedpur. Fishes have been found on a large scale for the second consecutive day. It is alleged that such situation has been going on for about a month. No concrete step has been taken so far to control this situation, due to which the difficulties have increased. https://avenuemail.in/dead-fish-recovered-at-jamshedpurs-jubilee-lake-for-second-day/  (17 June 2023)

Bengaluru Challakere lake reports fish deaths With a spate of deaths of fish in lakes owing to the entry of sewage, concern is rising among Bengaluru over the authorities’ inaction to curb pollution. While taking a stroll around Challakere lake, residents recently noted 50 dead fish accumulated at one corner of the lake spread over more than 33 acres.

The lake is connected to the Ramapura lake in the downstream and eventually to Yellamallapa Chetty lake. According to Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), more than 11 acres of the lake have been encroached on by government and private bodies for a road, police station, graveyard and school playground, among other things. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/lakes-of-bengaluru-untreated-sewage-challakere-lake-fish-deaths-8632369/  (28 May 2023)

Pune Sewage Pollution Cause of Fish Deaths in Jambhulwadi Lake Among the primary contributors to the environmental degradation were the direct influx of sewage water from neighboring residential complexes into the lake, leading to its contamination. The pollution further escalated due to vehicular washing, laundry practices, and the disruptive cacophony of ongoing construction projects in the vicinity.

– Alarming test results also revealed a distressing scarcity of dissolved oxygen in the water, exacerbating the plight of the marine inhabitants. The presence of toxic metals discovered within the lake only deepened the concerns regarding its deteriorating ecosystem. Additionally, a disconcerting rise in the saltwater level further complicated the delicate balance within the once-thriving aquatic habitat. https://www.punekarnews.in/pune-sewage-pollution-cited-as-cause-of-fish-deaths-in-jambhulwadi-lake/  (26 May 2023)

Haryana Mass fish death due to chemical poisoning reported in Thapana stream a tributary of Yamuna river in Yamuna Nagar on May 23, 2023. https://www.amarujala.com/amp/bihar/patna/gangetic-river-dolphins-death-in-bihar-poaching-and-noise-pollution-in-water-big-threat-2023-06-03  (03 June 2023)

Uttar Pradesh बिजनौर के अफ़जलगढ़ इलाके में मछली पालन के तालाब में अज्ञात व्यक्ति ने कीट नाशक डाल दिया। तड़प तड़प कर हज़ारों मछली की मौत हो गई। पीड़ित तालाब मालिक ने आरोपी पर कार्रवाई किए जाने व मुआवजा दिलाए जाने की मांग की। https://www.bhaskar.com/local/uttar-pradesh/bijnor/news/thousands-of-fish-died-in-agony-the-victim-demanded-action-131170916.html  (13 May 2023)

Jammu & Kashmir The presence of the carnivorous fish in the lake has surprised not just residents but also the scientists and authorities, who are now trying to ascertain its effects on the ecology of Dal Lake, the second-largest and the most famous lake of J&K. Two weeks after gar fish was found in Dal, a sudden death of a large number of fish in Dal Lake following heavy spells of rain last month triggered panic among locals even as experts. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/carnivorous-alligator-gar-the-latest-threat-for-srinagar-s-idyllic-dal-lake–90088  (16 June 2023)

SAND MINING

NGT From Sept 1, SPCB’s consent mandatory for mining The NGT has directed that it will be mandatory to obtain consent to establish or consent to operate from the concerned SPCBs for river sand mining and that no river sand mining will be allowed to continue in the country without obtaining these consents with effect from September 1 this year.

The tribunal on May 30 directed the MoEF&CC to issue guidelines within two months to ensure that the requirement of obtaining these consents is made uniformly applicable to all river bed sand mining projects across the country. The NGT was hearing a matter in which the applicant had raised the issue of illegal sand mining in the Ganga in Kanpur and Unnao along with a bridge allegedly constructed in the river by those carrying out the mining, resulting in the river being divided into two streams. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/state-pollution-control-boards-consent-mandatory-river-sand-mining-ngt-8668583/  (12June 2023)

Tamil Nadu Policemen authorised to seize vehicles: HC In December last year, a division bench of the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court had sought constitution of a full bench to clarify whether police officers have the power to seize vehicles under the 1957 Act or whether such power was vested only upon revenue officials.

A bench of Justices MS Ramesh and N Anand Venkatesh noted that the Court had passed an order on October 29, 2018 issuing a series of directions to the government for addressing the issue of illegal mining in the State. In that order, the Court had only recognised revenue officials as ‘authorised officers,’ who can seize vehicles and file private complaints after the seizure before the jurisdictional court.

Following the said Court order, the State issued a Government Order (GO) on August 5, 2020, which stated that even police officials were empowered to seize vehicles under Section 21 (4) of the Act. To address this conflict between the Court’s order and the GO, the judges had decided to refer the matter to a full bench for clarification. https://www.barandbench.com/news/litigation/police-authorised-illegal-mining-seize-vehicles-madras-high-court-full-bench  (15 June 2023)

Activist assaulted in Villupuram Two days after a 35-year-old activist informed a regional newspaper about illegal sand mining allegedly underway at a government sand mine in Thiruvennainallur taluk of Villupuram, the person came under attack on Sunday (June 18). According to sources, M Raja is a resident of Yenathimangalam village where a government sand mine was set up along the Thenpennai in 2019. Ever since villagers have been staging protests alleging rampant sand mining beyond the permitted limit. On Friday (June 16), Raja told a newspaper that illegal sand mining was rampant in the government sand mine. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2023/jun/12/two-days-after-exposing-illegal-sand-mining-activist-assaulted-in-tnsvillupuram  (12June 2023)

Karnataka Tractor ferrying sand illegally mows down cop  A head constable was allegedly mowed down by a tractor transporting sand illegally near a police check post in Jevargi taluk of Kalaburagi district on Thursday (June 15) night. The tractor driver was arrested on Friday. Deceased Mayur Bheemu Chauhan (51) and constable Pramod Doddamani were on night duty at the Hullur check post when they saw the sand-laden tractor coming, and signalled it to stop. As the tractor sped on, the two cops gave it a chase on their bike. They were taking sand from Bhima river and the check post was created by the newly elected Congress govt to stop illegal sand mining. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/tractor-ferrying-sand-illegally-mows-down-cop-in-karnataka/articleshow/101053329.cms  (17 June 2023)

Activist demands action in illegal mining Hosanagar taluk unit of Janasangrama Parishad has urged the Shivamogga district administration to take measures to stop allegedly illegal sand extraction in the backwaters of Sharavati in Hosanagar taluk. Girish Achar, president of Hosanagar unit of Parishad, submitted a memorandum to Shivamogga Deputy Commissioner R. Selvamani on Thursday (June 15), alleging illegal extraction of sand in Sharavati backwaters. He appealed to the Deputy Commissioner to convene the meeting of the district task force and give clear instructions to stop such activities.  https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/activist-demands-action-in-illegal-sand-mining-in-hosanagar/article66979785.ece  (17June 2023)

DCF suspended for granting forest land for mining In a stern message to forest officers, the government on Monday suspended a deputy conservator of forest (DCF) for illegally granting forest land for mining. The case pertains to the grant of 21 acres of land in Didaghatta, a village in Channarayapatna taluk of Hassan district. DCF K Harish had granted no-objection certificate (NOC) for quarrying in the land which has been notified for deemed forest. On May 29, DH reported about a complaint highlighting that the DCF’s action was in violation of the government’s directions to protect deemed forest. Following the DH report, the then principal chief conservator of forests (head of forest force) R K Singh had issued a set of guidelines for protecting 3.3 lakh hectares of land notified as deemed forest. https://www.deccanherald.com/state/karnataka-dcf-suspended-for-granting-forest-land-for-mining-1227286.html  (12 June 2023)

Punjab 70 tubewells in Ropar village go dry, illegal mining to blame Over 70 tubewells at Heerpur village here have gone dry. Residents have blamed it on illegal mining in the Sutlej riverbed adjoining their land saying that deep digging is leading to a fall in the water level. This is not the first village to have cited illegal mining as the reason for tubewells going dry. Earlier, residents of Sangatpur, Saidpur and Bhanua villages had protested against illegal mining.

A geologist in the Agriculture Department, Jaspal Singh, told The Tribune that when a riverbed is dug up, water recharge starts from the same depth, leading to a depletion in the level of groundwater even in adjoining areas.” He said deep digging of the riverbed also punctured the acquifer (underground layer of water-bearing permeable rock) due to which water overflowed onto the ground level, particularly at mining spots. “The groundwater at such spots runs off with the river water, leading to further depletion. The river water entering through the punctured acquifer also pollutes the groundwater,” he said.

Following a protest by residents at the village, Deputy Commissioner Amandeep Kaur has constituted a committee to report on the matter. The committee, headed by Anandpur Sahib SDM Manisha Rana, has the XEN of the Mining Department, Anandpur Sahib DSP, Anandpur Sahib block geologist, groundwater cell hydrologist, Ropar, XEN (Headworks), Anandpur Sahib tehsildar and the Nurpur Bedi naib tehsildar as its members. Officials in the Agriculture Department have alerted the authorities in the past over the issue, saying that such complaints have increased manifold after mining was noticed in rivers, especially in the Sutlej, during the past decade. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/70-tubewells-in-ropar-village-go-dry-illegal-mining-to-blame-515749  (10 June 2023)

Haryana Obstructing Yamuna: FIR against mining firm Acting on a complaint of creating obstruction in Yamuna river by a mining company, the Sonipat police has registered a case against Zelcova mining company at Murthal police station of Sonipat district. Notably, the above said mining company was accused of diverting the natural flow of Yamuna River at Asadpur village of Sonipat district.

A resident of Asadpur village had written twice to competent authorities seeking action against the erring company by mentioning that a bundh (dam) was created for transpiration of overloaded trucks. An email was sent to PMO, Haryana CMO & other top authorities against the erring company. Sonipat SDO water services Himanshu has also written to Murthal police station seeking action against Zelcova mining agency. The Murthal police has booked the accused company under under various sections on the complaint of sub divisional officer, Gannaur. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/obstruction-of-yamuna-fir-against-mining-firm/articleshow/101077812.cms  (18 June 2023)

Screening plant owners illegally extract mining material In violation of the orders issued by the NGT, the owners of a screening plant have allegedly extracted raw mining material (a mixture of boulders, gravel and sand) illegally from Yamuna river and stocked it at their plant situated in Kanalsi village of Yamunanagar district. The screening plant is hardly 300 m from the Yamuna. This fact of illegal mining was revealed in a report, prepared by Rajesh Sangwan, assistant mining engineer (now shifted from Yamunanagar to another district), after inspection of the screening plant by a team of the Mining Department headed by him.

In his report, the AME also mentioned that there was only 62.80 MT closing quantity of received mineral on the e-rawana portal of the screening plant on June 8. However, when they measured the stock physically, the quantity of boulders, gravel and sand was found to be 16200 MT at the site of the screening plant. Sources said as per the orders issued by the NGT from time to time, no mining could take place in the non-mining area of the Yamuna river. On the complaint of mining inspector Rohit, a case was registered against the owners of the screening plant under Section 21 of the MMDR Act 1957 and 379 of the IPC at the Buria police station on June 12. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/screening-plant-owners-illegally-extract-mining-material-from-yamuna-517784  (17 June 2023)

15 attacks by mining mafia, dept seeks arms  Following an attack on their eight-member team yesterday (June 15), the Mining Department in Gurugram has demanded that armed police personnel should accompany its teams. In a letter shot to the state government, Gurugram and Nuh Mining Officer Anil Atwal has not just sought extra police force but also arms and ammunition for them.

In the past year, anti-mining squads in Nuh and Gurugram have been attacked at least 15 times. Currently, six policemen have been allotted to the Mining Department in Gurugram and Nuh to man 25,000 hectares of the Aravallis in two districts. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/15-attacks-by-mining-mafia-dept-seeks-arms-517439  (16 June 2023)

In sheer violation of norms, over 6 poclain machines carrying out instream excessive mining in Yamuna river at Mandoli ghat in Kanalsi village Yamuna Nagar today at 07:00 am. Mined minerals dumps and partially merged bunds across river bed are also visible there. https://fb.watch/leC5Do1f77/  (18 June 2023)

पानीपत जिले के समालखा कस्बे से गुजर रही यमुना में नहाते वक्त एक युवक डूब गया। हालांकि युवक के साथ उसके 4 और दोस्त नहा रहे थे। मगर, डूबने वाला युवक यमुना में काफी गहराई तक चला गया था। जिसे बचाकर लाने की हिम्मत उसके दोस्तों की नहीं हुई। https://www.bhaskar.com/local/haryana/panipat/news/rescue-drowned-youth-yamuna-river-in-panipat-samalkha-news-meerut-news-131313553.html  (22 May 2023)

Uttar Pradesh Mafia attack police team in Mathura Police patrolling team monitoring illegal sand mining activities were allegedly attacked by suspected mining mafia in the Baldev area of Mathura district, police said on Sunday (June 18). Three police constables were injured in the attack. Of the eight accused named in the case, two have been arrested, they said. A case has been registered against the accused under relevant provisions of the law.

Baldev SHO Sanjay Tyagi said a mobile police team was patrolling the area on Friday evening to monitor illegal mining activities. When they tried to stop a sand-laden tractor-trolley near the Nagla Lekha village, the driver crashed the vehicle into a motorcycle and fled. https://www.deccanherald.com/national/north-and-central/sand-mining-mafia-attack-police-team-in-ups-mathura-two-arrested-1228864.html  (18 June 2023)

2 children feared drowned in Yamuna in Agra Two children were feared drowned in the Yamuna in Agra after they got separated from their group on Friday (June 16). It is suspected that the children may have lost their balance in the river before drowning. Speaking to India Today, local police sources said that Ritik (10) and Tannu (9), residents of the Tedhi Bagiya area in Agra, had gone out with a group of kids to bathe in the Yamuna.

According to the locals, the riverbank in the area was full of deep trenches allegedly dug by illegal sand miners. They said that trenches were currently filled with water due to the rising level of the river. The locals claimed that at least ten kids had died in this area after losing their balance as they probably failed to judge the depth of the water.

Hindustani Biradari Vice-Chairman Vishal Sharma urged the local administration to take strict action against the sand miners. He claimed that illegal mining not only disturbed the river’s ecosystem but also made the riverbed dangerous for people. He said that the practice has become rampant in Agra and poses severe environmental and social threats that need to be addressed urgently, as sand mining has led to habitat destruction of aquatic creatures, loss of biodiversity, and increased pollution levels in the river. https://www.indiatoday.in/cities/agra/story/two-children-feared-drowned-in-yamuna-in-agra-search-operation-underway-2394129-2023-06-17  (17 June 2023)

 2 siblings among 3 drown in Yamuna in Kaushambi At least three persons, including two teenaged brothers, drowned in Yamuna at Sewdha village under the limits of Pipri police station of Kaushambi on Friday (June 16), police said. The incident took place when a group of four youths from the village had gone for swimming. Three of them went into deep water and drowned. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/allahabad/two-siblings-among-3-drown-in-yamuna-river-in-kaushambi/articleshowprint/101057668.cms  (17 June 2023)

Madhya Pradesh नर्मदा नहाने गए 3 मौसेरे भाई डूबे, रेत खनन के लिए बने गड्‌डे बने मौत का कारण -ओबैदुल्लागंज नगर और पास के गांव में रहने वाले 3 युवाओं की सोमवार (29 May 2023) को नर्मदा नदी में डूबने से मौत हो गई। वे अपनी बहन के यहां गए हुए थे। उनके साथ गांव के ही अन्य 2 युवा साथी भी नहाने गए थे। जानकारी के अनुसार, जिनकी मौत हुई है, वे तीनों मौसेरे भाई थे और अपने माता-पिता के एक मात्र बेटे थे।

-घटना स्थल पर पहुंचे चौकी प्रभारी चौहान ने बताया कि ऋषभ नागर, पीयूष नागर, सौरभ नागर, प्रियांशु नागर और हर्ष नागर यह पांचों लड़के घर से नहाने निकले। माथनी के ही साथी ऋषभ और पीयूष ने इन तीनों को समझाया कि नर्मदा के किनारे ही नहाना आगे रेत के गड्ढों में मत जाना। तीनों मौसेरे भाई सौरभ, प्रियांशु और हर्ष रेत के खुले पड़े गड्ढों में नहाने चले गए और डूबने लगे। ऋषभ और पीयूष ने चिल्लाना शुरू कर दिया। कुछ लोग जहाजपुरा गांव के और घाट पर खड़े लोगों ने बचाना चाहा, लेकिन तेज बहाव पानी में वे डूब गए।

-प्रत्यक्षदर्शियों ने बताया कि नर्मदा का यह घाट जहाज पूरा नर्मदा नदी से रेत निकालने के लिए विख्यात है। बड़ी जेसीबी मशीनों से रेत निकलने के कारण यहां बड़े-बड़े गड्ढे हो गए हैं। यह तीनों कम पानी होने के कारण रेत पर चलते हुए नदी में लगभग 30 मीटर अंदर चले गए। जानकारी के अभाव और रेत निकाले जाने से हुए गड्ढे में जा फंसे। वह तीनों तैरना नहीं जानते थे। डूबने से बचाने के लिए उनके साथियों ने चिल्लया अन्य लोग बचाने दौड़े भी, लेकिन तीनों युवाओं को डूबने से बचाया नहीं जा सका। https://www.bhaskar.com/local/mp/raisen/mandideep/news/all-three-were-the-only-sons-of-the-parents-pits-made-for-sand-mining-became-the-cause-of-death-131344835.html   (30 May 2023)

वन विभाग के अमले पर हमलों का सिलसिला थमने का नाम नहीं ले रहा. गुरुवार (08 June 2023) को फिर पन्ना टाइगर रिजर्व बफर जोन अंतर्गत सब्दुआ बीट में वन विभाग के गश्ती दल पर रेत माफियाओं के द्वारा हमला कर दिया गया. इस हमले में वनरक्षक नीतेश भदोरिया सहित 3 सुरक्षाकर्मी घायल हुए हैं. घायल वन कर्मियों को तत्काल अजयगढ़ अस्पताल पहुंचाया गया, जहां उनका उपचार जारी है. https://www.etvbharat.com/hindi/madhya-pradesh/videos/other-videos/panna-news-sand-mafia-attack-on-forest-department-patrol-party-of-panna-tiger-reserve/mp20230608200717814814921  (08 June 2023)

Chhattisgarh A 23 year old villager mowed down by sand loaded truck in Dhamtari on June 15, 2023. Agitated mob set the truck on fire and asked admin to ensure action against speedy driving. https://www.naidunia.com/chhattisgarh/dhamtari-people-set-fire-to-the-truck-after-bike-rider-young-man-death-in-road-accident-in-dhamtari-8171188  (15 June 2023) https://www.etvbharat.com/hindi/chhattisgarh/state/dhamtari/youth-died-in-dhamtari-road-accident-truck-hit-bike-rider/ct20230614231431232232799  (14 June 2023)

Bihar नदियों से बालू निकाल बना दिया कंकाल लाल रेत के कारोबार ने ग्रामीण अर्थव्यवस्था का आधार खेती की रीढ़ तोड़ दी है। एनजीटी के मानकों की अनदेखी कर नदियों से बालू का उठाव किया जा रहा है। जमुई में प्राकृतिक संपदा के अत्याधिक दोहन से कृत्रिम आपदा की स्थिति बन गई है। खेतों को सिंचाई के लिए पानी नहीं मिल रहा है। 25-30 फीट गहराई से नदियों से बालू उठाव हो रहा है, जबकि 10 फीट गहराई से ही बालू का उठाव करना है। किऊल, बरनार जैसी नदियों ने कंकाल का रूप धारण कर लिया है तो सड़क किनारे कृत्रिम आपदा के बने 37 बालू के पहाड़ खड़े हैं।

अब इसके दूरगामी प्रभाव भी दिखने लगे हैं। नदियों में गहराई तक बालू उठाव के बाद जलस्तर तेजी से नीचे जा रहा है। पटवन के मुख्य स्त्रोत पूरी तरह ध्वस्त हो गया है। नदियों को खंगाल कर जमुई जिले से होकर गुजरने वाली एनएच 333 पर लक्ष्मीपुर से खपरिया तक 60 किमी के बीच बालू के 30 पहाड़ खड़े कर दिए गए हैं। टिहिया में 2, कागेश्वर में एक, जमुई-सिकन्दरा के बीच दो, खैरा में 2 बालू के पहाड़ बनाए गए हैं। https://www.bhaskar.com/local/bihar/jamui/news/37-mountains-of-sand-on-the-roadside-due-to-falling-water-level-the-fields-are-not-getting-water-1000-ponds-dried-up-131407811.html  (15 June 2023)

-काेईलवर में सोन पर 266 करोड़ की लागत से नवनिर्मित 1526 मीटर लंबे सिक्स लेन पुल पर बालू माफियाओं की वजह से खतरा मंडराने लगा है। पुल पर सारी रात बालू के ओवरलोडेड ट्रक डेडलोड बनकर खड़े रह रहे हैं। इसकाे लेकर इसका निर्माण करने वाली कंपनी ने सरकार को आगाह किया है। कंपनी के अधिकारियों ने पत्र भेजकर डेडलोड ओवरलोडेड ट्रकाें से पुल को खतरा बताया है। https://www.bhaskar.com/amp/local/bihar/patna/bihta/news/danger-on-the-newly-constructed-bridge-over-son-overloaded-trucks-of-sand-standing-in-3-lines-overnight-131422680.html  (19 June 2023)

A group of people gheraoed the Bihta police station in Patna district on Tuesday (18 April 2023) demanding the release of 45 people who were arrested on Monday (17 April 2023) for illegal sand mining and attacking officials, police said. On April 12, the mafia also torched a temporary check post that was set up between Bihta-Bhojpur road. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/patna-news/45-arrested-for-illegal-sand-mining-in-bihar-group-demands-their-release-gheraos-police-station-officials-attacked-by-mafia-scorpio-seized-101681878635436-amp.html  (19 April 2023)

Jharkhand Govt penalised by HC for not filing affidavit The High Court Wednesday (June 14) slapped a penalty of Rs 10,000 on the state government for failing to file an affidavit in a public interest litigation on alleged illegal sand mining. The court passed the order in connection with a PIL filed by the Federation of Jharkhand Sand Traders Association. The court had on March 22 ordered the government to file an affidavit but as it failed to do so, the division bench imposed the cost on the state for non-compliance.

The Jharkhand State Minerals Development Corporation (JSMDC) in its affidavit said that only 21 sand ghats have proper documentation and license for mining in the state and that tenders have already been floated for allotment of sand mines in the state. Petitioner’s counsel Vikas Pandey and Piyush Poddar pleaded before the court that illegal lifting of sand from river banks is on the rise. There is rampant sand mining without following norms causing immense loss in royalty to the government as well as disturbing the ecological balance, they claimed. https://theprint.in/india/jkhand-govt-penalised-by-hc-for-not-filing-affidavit-in-illegal-sand-mining-case/1540620/  (26 April 2023)

ToI EDIT It’s extraordinary that 10-year-old diesel cars are taken off the roads to protect the environment, but a hill range and a seaside ecological zone are up for grabs. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/toi-editorials/greenwashed-aravalis-to-goa-rules-are-being-tweaked-to-allow-ecologically-dangerous-projects-and-mining/  (19 June 2023)

WETLANDS, LAKES, WATER BODIES

Tamil Nadu Conservationists call for restoration of wetland near Ooty Railway Station Local conservationists have called for restoration of a wetland adjoining the Udhagam and alam Railway Station, where the railways constructed buildings for a staff training centre, but later abandoned the plan as the nature of the soil was unsuited to support the weight of concrete structures.

According to local activists, construction of the training centre at the railway station was started around five years ago, despite objections. Previously, the 2.5-acre wetland used to be home to a wide variety of birds and plant life. Till date, the area is used as a foraging ground by Toda buffaloes, a native breed of cattle indigenous to the Nilgiris. However, after a few buildings were constructed on the wetland, it became apparent to the railways that the ground was simply unsuited to supporting permanent concrete structures, forcing them to abandon the project. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/conservationists-call-for-restoration-of-wetland-near-ooty-railway-station/article66964006.ece  (13 June 2023)

Maharashtra Futala Lake not in wetland category: Govt tells HC The state government has informed the Nagpur bench of Bombay high court that the Futala Lake doesn’t fall in the category of wetlands, but it is a man-made pond built during the Bhonsla period for supplying water to Telangkhedi garden. The submission came in an affidavit filed in the PIL by Swacchh Foundation, which had said that the musical fountain built on the lake is illegal. Advocate Anand Parchure, on behalf of the state government’s environment ministry and wetland authority, rejected all the allegations.

Parchure argued that the Futala pond does not come under the category of ‘wetland’. “It is a man-made pond. It was constructed by the then Bhonsla king to supply water to the Telangkhedi garden. The man-made pond was not kept in the list of wetlands,” the state’s counsel submitted.

Besides this, the government also clarified its stand on the construction of viewer’s gallery and parking lot on one side of the road. The NGO had said that the construction work was harming the ecology. The state said the work has been done after seeking NOC from the concerned departments. Earlier, the petitioner had moved the court claiming inclusion of Futala pond in the list of National Wetland Inventory and Assessment. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/futala-lake-not-in-wetland-category-state-govt-tells-hc/articleshowprint/101006159.cms  (15 June 2023)

West Bengal Rabindra Sarobar water level continues to go down On March 11, The Telegraph reported how the water level of the 193-acre lake had dipped significantly, posing a challenge for rowers and a threat to its ecological balance. A visit on Wednesday (June 14) and conversations with lake veterans suggested the situation had only worsened. The pile of slush, just visible along the banks three months ago, is prominent now. The marks on the boundary walls suggested the water level had gone further down.

An official of the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority, the custodians of the lake, attributed the depleting water level to a “rain deficit”. July and August, the rainiest months in Kolkata, had ended in deficit last year. This year, the rain deficit from April 1 to June 13 stood at over 60 per cent for Kolkata, said a Met official. But rowers and lake regulars said the KMDA should not depend on the elements alone and called for urgent intervention. “The problem has worsened. I cannot remember the water level going down at such an alarming rate,” said Ashok Khemka, 76, a resident of Southern Avenue and a member of Lake Club.

Multiple accounts of old-timers like Khemka pointed out how the Sarobar was once connected to the “Adi Ganga” by a pipeline that passed beneath the Tollygunge railway bridge. The link was snapped because of the construction of the Metro Railway line. Since then, the water level in the Sarobar has been dependent on seasonal rain, they said. An official of the KMDA said the problem was limited to the banks. Raising the level of the valves that drain out the excess water and manual dredging of the banks were the steps that the KMDA would take in the coming days, he said. https://www.telegraphindia.com/my-kolkata/news/rabindra-sarobar-water-level-continues-to-go-down-slush-along-banks/cid/1945876  ( 18 June 2023)

WATER OPTIONS

Karnataka Agriculturist’s environmental efforts bear fruit Sadashiva Marike, an agriculturist from Puttur, has embraced the environment as an integral part of his life, resulting in the remarkable growth of a forest near his residence. Hailing from a family that relied on agriculture for their livelihood, Sadashiva’s passion for farming was surpassed only by his concern for the environment, driven by the water scarcity experienced in his area back in 1983.

Motivated by his readings on nature and water conservation, Sadashiva embarked on a tree-planting mission. He diligently planted a variety of saplings he collected during his travels across the five acres of unused land owned by his family. Over a span of ten years, Sadashiva’s relentless efforts bore fruit, with additional trees sprouting from seeds brought and dropped by birds on the five-acre plot. As a result, even at the end of May, the four ponds on his farm continue to hold water, thanks to the presence of the surrounding trees.

Remarkably, Sadashiva struck water at a depth of just 25 feet while drilling a borewell, an accomplishment made possible by the forest he nurtured on the five-acre land. To safeguard the forest from any potential harm, a protective fence has been erected around it. Furthermore, the forest now serves as a habitat for various species of birds, animals, and reptiles. https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1089627  (13 June 2023)

Madhya Pradesh पंचायत ने नाले के गंदे पानी के सफाई खंडवा से लगभग 55 किलोमीटर दूर स्थित ग्राम पंचायत कालमुखी में नर्मदा की सहायक नदी कावेरी बहती है। इसी कावेरी नदी में पिछले कई सालों से गांव के नाले का गंदा पानी कावेरी में मिल रहा था। लेकिन अब ग्राम पंचायत ने नाले में देसी ग्रे वॉटर ट्रीटमेंट प्लांट लगाकर, पानी को साफकर नदी में छोड़ना शुरू कर दिया है। पंचायत ने त्रिस्तरीय फिल्टर प्रणाली लगाई गई है, जिसे वातन प्रणाली भी कहते है। इसे बनाने में कोई खास खर्च भी नहीं लगता है। इसमें तीन चरणों में पानी को साफ किया जाता है। पहला फिल्टर गिट्टी से बना हुआ है। दूसरा फिल्टर बोल्डर से बना हुआ है तथा तीसरा फिल्टर रेत से बना हुआ है। इन तीन चरणों से होता हुआ पानी गुजरता है और साफ होकर फिर कावेरी नदी में मिलता है। https://hindi.news24online.com/state/madhya-pradesh/mp-news-kalamukhi-panchayat-of-khandwa-district-launched-campaign-clean-water-found-in-kaveri-river-mpap/253837/  (10 June 2023)

Jharkhand Water sustainability leads to better income for farmers The farmers in Gumla and Simdega districts were suffering from severe water crisis and soil erosion till a few years ago. The state government along with non-profit chipped in and started watershed management by excavating trenches along the hill slopes in 2012. Over 25,000 people in two districts have been benefitted from trenches that have led to multiple cropping due to adequate supply of water. https://india.mongabay.com/2020/07/water-sustainability-leads-to-better-income-for-jharkhand-farmers/  (07 July 2020)

GROUNDWATER

Study Groundwater pumping changing Earth’s tilt By pumping water out of the ground, humans have shifted such a large mass of water that the Earth tilted nearly 80 centimeters (31.5 inches) east in the last thirty years.

– In a 2016 study, the authors argued that an anomalous eastward shift of the rotational poles 0ver the past 115 years was caused by anthropogenic climate change. As the planet warms in response of increasing atmospheric levels of greenhouse gases, melting ice sheets and glaciers caused sea-levels to raise, redistributing large volumes of water and forcing Earth’s center of rotation to shift respectively. But melting ice and snow alone couldn’t explain the observed polar shift.

– In a new study, researchers modeled the drift of Earth’s axis and the movement of water – first, with only ice sheets and glaciers considered, and then adding in different scenarios of groundwater redistribution. “Our study shows that among climate-related causes, the redistribution of groundwater actually has the largest impact on the drift of the rotational pole,” said lead author Ki-Weon Seo.

– Scientists previously estimated humans pumped 2,150 gigatons of groundwater, equivalent to more than 6 millimeters (0.24 inches) of sea level rise, from 1993 to 2010. The study “Drift of Earth’s Pole Confirms Groundwater Depletion as a Significant Contributor to Global Sea Level Rise 1993–2010” was published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters (2023). Material provided by Rebecca Dzombak for the American Geophysical Union. https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidbressan/2023/06/16/humans-are-pumping-so-much-water-out-of-the-ground-that-earths-tilt-is-changing/  (16 June 2023)

The location of the groundwater matters for how much it could change polar drift; redistributing water from the midlatitudes has a larger impact on the rotational pole. During the study period, the most water was redistributed in western North America and northwestern India, both at midlatitudes. Countries’ attempts to slow groundwater depletion rates, especially in those sensitive regions, could theoretically alter the change in drift, but only if such conservation approaches are sustained for decades, Seo said. https://news.agu.org/press-release/weve-pumped-so-much-groundwater-that-weve-nudged-the-earths-spin/  (15 June 2023)

Uttar Pradesh Impact of arsenic contaminated groundwater on human health. https://caravanmagazine.in/health/ballia-up-arsenic-water-crisis  (01 June 2023)

URBAN WATER

Bengaluru Water contamination linked to polluted borewell The water contamination reported from an apartment complex near Electronics City last week was attributed to a polluted borewell in the complex, according to tests conducted by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). Close to 140 people suffered from gastroenteritis due to the contamination.

While the BBMP has asked the residents to refrain from using the borewell, the reports may indicate a larger problem of monitoring groundwater quality. Although there are thousands of borewells in the city, they are hardly monitored. While officials from the Groundwater Directorate claim to monitor the quality, sources reveal that it is practically impossible to track the quality in all parts of the city. Sources in the department also suggest that the failure to prevent the entry of sewage into lakes and the constant release of industrial effluents could have polluted the groundwater in some areas. Experts suggest that people keep a close eye on the water quality of private borewells and have them tested regularly. https://www.deccanherald.com/city/top-bengaluru-stories/bengaluru-water-contamination-linked-to-polluted-borewell-in-apartment-complex-1228113.html  (15 June 2023)

Lack of statutory body stalls rejuvenation of lakes In 2016, the Karnataka govt appointed a committee headed by the then Additional Chief Secretary Mahendra Jain to propose measures for lake rejuvenation. The committee submitted its report along with short and long term recommendations to the NGT as part of Govt affidavit. The committee also called for the formation of an integrated statutory agency with financial autonomy to ensure accountability and to remove parastatal bodies. The govt has shown no will to implement this or other recommendations. https://www.deccanherald.com/city/top-bengaluru-stories/bengaluru-lack-of-statutory-body-stalls-rejuvenation-of-lakes-1229007.html  (19 June 2023)

Apathy of SPCB, panchayat blamed for sorry state of Rayasandra lake Over the last few years, people residing in the vicinity of Rayasandra lake near Bengaluru’s Hosa Road have been demanding its restoration. Not only have the roads approaching the lake been in bad condition, the water body itself, according to the local residents, has consistently been ignored by the administration. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/apathy-of-kspcb-panchayat-blamed-for-sorry-state-of-rayasandra-lake-8669508/  (18 June 2023)

The Lake Department of BBMP is short of hands to provide security at city lakes. According to the officials, the department is short of home guards to be appointed at the nearly 150 water bodies that fall under the purview of and are developed by the civic body. Currently, there are 450 home guards to man around 150 waterbodies in the city. BBMP posts home guards at lakes in three shifts. Lake activists in the city say many water bodies revived by BBMP have gaps when it comes to the safety and security of walkers and lakes’ biodiversity. This makes deployment of sufficient home guards even more important.  https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/cover-story/too-few-good-women/articleshow/101001027.cms   (15 June 2023)

Udupi Women of Ambalpady village took water pots and gheraoed the Ambalpady gram panchayat (GP) office on Saturday (June 17), accusing the administration of not providing drinking water through tankers. The villagers say that acute shortage of drinking water is faced in the city of Udupi. https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1091041  (17 June 2023)

Hyderabad Hussain Sagar lake remains polluted For 25 years, different international companies have come forward to take up the cleaning of the Hussain Sagar Lake but no significant difference has been recorded so far. The SPCB official said that the decade-long issue can only be eradicated by emptying the lake, diverting and refilling it with fresh water. The restoration can take up to six months of work. https://www.siasat.com/will-historic-hussain-sagar-lake-ever-get-rid-of-its-pollution-2613128/  (12 June 2023)

Ludhiana Untreated domestic, dairy effluents major source of pollution According to data from the SPCB, Ludhiana’s water pollution is primarily caused by untreated domestic effluent, accounting for 47 per cent of the BOD load, followed by dairy effluent at 29 per cent.

In the case of the Sutlej, the three main sources of polluted water are domestic effluent, dairy effluent, and industrial effluent. Ludhiana generates a total of 761 MLD of effluent, with domestic effluent contributing 612 MLD, industrial effluent 137 MLD, and dairy effluent 12 MLD. However, the operational capacity of the STPs installed by the Municipal Corporation (MC) is only 418 MLD, resulting in a significant gap of 194 MLD of untreated effluent. This untreated effluent is discharged directly into Budha Nullah, a water channel, through multiple outlets maintained by the MC.

It is worth noting that the government prepared an action plan for clean river Sutlej in January 2019, which required the MC Ludhiana to install a CETP with a capacity of 5 MLD for Tajpur Dairy Complex and a CETP with a capacity of 10 MLD for Haibowal Dairy Complex by December 2020. However, no action has been taken by the MC, resulting in continued pollution of water bodies by untreated wastewater from domestic and dairy complexes, severely affecting the entire city’s population.. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/ludhiana/untreated-domestic-dairy-effluents-major-source-of-water-pollution-in-city-514672  (18 June 2023)

Gurugram Water tankers charge exorbitant rates Residents in several parts of Gurugram are facing a water crisis as the supply has remained affected for many days. Private tanker suppliers have hiked rates from Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 5,000, while government agencies are still grappling with ways to communicate the free service to residents. Private tanker operators run their business from private farmlands in the city’s villages, where illegal borewells suck the groundwater dry under the watchful eyes of musclemen. Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) said there is a supply shortage of about 70 MLD. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/gurugram-news/no-checks-in-place-water-tankers-charge-exorbitant-rates-in-gurugram-101686851833155.html  (15 June 2023)

Noida 13 builders fined Rs 5 lakh The district administration on Wednesday (June 14) fined 13 developers Rs 5 lakh each for extracting groundwater to carry out construction in their projects in Noida and Greater Noida. The move followed a survey carried out on the instructions of district magistrate Manish Kumar Verma by a joint team of the Noida and Greater Noida authorities, the pollution board and the groundwater department.

Some of the projects where groundwater was being extracted were Supercity Mayfair Residency in Greater Noida, Ajnara Daffodil in Sector 137, Central Market Mall in Sector 120, ATS Pristine in Sector 150, Mahagun Mywoods in Sector 16C, Greater Noida, Jaypee Aman in Sector 151 and Antriksh Golf City in Sector 150. Data sourced from the government show that groundwater has depleted sharply in the district in the past 10 years. The average groundwater level dipped from 7.94m in 2012 to 16.56m in 2012. This year’s data was not available. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/13-builders-extract-groundwater-for-projects-fined-rs-5-lakh/articleshow/101032070.cms  (16 June 2023)

Delhi Water crisis will be resolved  in 2-3 years: CM Kejriwal said he has set an ambitious target to further enhance Delhi’s water production capacity to a range of 1,200-1,300 MGD. To accomplish this, the government plans to install tubewells in areas with high water-tables, enabling the extraction of water on a large scale. Additionally, an innovative approach will be adopted to recharge groundwater by rejuvenating lakes with treated STP water, the chief minister said.

The recharged water will undergo further treatment in RO plants before being supplied to households, he said. To ensure the highest standards of sewage treatment, all STPs in Delhi are currently undergoing comprehensive upgrades, aiming to mitigate pollution and promote responsible water resource management, the CM said. https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/delhi-s-water-crisis-to-be-resolved-within-2-3-years-arvind-kejriwal-123061400014_1.html  (14 June 2023)

Govt will bring a one-time settlement scheme for the water bills of 11.7 lakh domestic consumers who have arrears, CM Arvind Kejriwal announced on June 14. Addressing a press conference at the Delhi Secretariat, Mr. Kejriwal said the government plans to implement the scheme from August 1 and the consumers will receive the corrected bills after that. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/delhi-government-to-bring-one-time-settlement-scheme-for-water-bills-of-117-lakh-consumers-with-arrears/article66964739.ece  (13 June 2023)

WATER POLLUTION

Report Can Bandicoot end manual scavenging?  Bandicoot a robot that clears manholes, though remarkable, is not the total solution for manual scavenging and the problem is far bigger, said social activist Bezwada Wilson. He said the government needs to do more than mechanise. https://thewire.in/rights/bandicoot-robot-manholes-story  (14 June 2023)

JJM/ RURAL WATER SUPPLY

Jharkhand Accute Failure of Nal Jal Scheme A report from Development Files about drinking water situation in some of the tribal villages, showing how the Nal Se Jal project of Govt of India is a failure. https://youtu.be/KLqDkmLcIDI  (17 June 2023)

Karnataka CM orders 3^rd party inspection of JJM works The CM on June 12, 2023 has ordered a third party inspection of Jal Jeevan Mission works in the state following complaints of poor quality pipelines and lack of sustainable water source. Since 2019, Karnataka has spent Rs 10381 crores on the scheme. In current year, Rs 25000 cr has been allocated for the scheme. https://www.deccanherald.com/state/top-karnataka-stories/karnataka-cm-orders-third-party-inspection-of-jal-jeevan-mission-works-1227282.html  (12 June 2023)

Odisha Water crisis looms large in Ganjam village Despite being the largest village of the state, Surala under the Chikiti block of Ganjam district continues to reel under water scarcity where the locals have to trek around 3 km every day to collect drinking water. Ironically, the village has many open wells and tube wells but the water is salty and used only for washing purposes. Several initiatives were taken to supply drinking water to the village but none bore fruit. The Rural Water Supply and Sanitation (RWSS) department had installed a mega water supply project at the Badi Chowk area near the village in 2015 but even the water was unfit for drinking purposes. Similarly in 2020, another project was established on the premises of Surala Hospital with a capacity of one lakh litre but that too delivered water with higher salinity. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2023/jun/18/water-crisis-looms-large-in-ganjam-village-in-odisha-2586185.html  (18 June 2023)

Jammu & Kashmir For over 80 villages in the Kashmir Valley, potable drinking water is an elusive dream. Men, women and children walk up to five kilometres everyday along treacherous paths amidst fear of wild animals to collect water. https://thewire.in/rights/parched-and-forgotten-the-everyday-struggle-for-water-in-the-villages-of-the-kashmir-valley  (16 June 2023)

WHO India can avoid 400k deaths if JJM meets target India can potentially prevent nearly 400,000 deaths from diarrhoea and save about 14 million DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) from water-related ailments if it manages to achieve universal rural coverage under the Jal Jeevan Mission, a World Health Organization report commissioned by the government has predicted. One DALY represents the loss of the equivalent of one year of full health. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-can-avoid-400k-deaths-if-jjm-meets-target-who-report-101686336491269.html  (10 June 2023)

Report Citizen complaints on waste, sewage, air and water quality up 36% Praja Foundation released a report titled ‘Status of Civic Issues in Delhi, 2023’ on Friday and said that there was a 36% increase in the number of overall citizen complaints related to solid waste management, sewage treatment, air quality and water quality – from 3,30,099 in 2019 to 4,47,468 in 2022.

The non-profit organisation working to enable accountable governance since 1997 highlighted the status of garbage management and implementation of the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2016, in the report, mentioning that MCD might claim 100% door-to-door garbage collection, but the complaints related to ‘garbage not collected from households’ increased 285% from 1,068 in 2019 to 4,117 in 2022.

The report also stated that sewerage-related complaints saw a significant 75% rise escalating from 78,997 in 2019 to 1,38,545 in 2022. Complaints about water contamination rose 39% from 35,679 in 2019 to 49,492 in 2022. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/citizen-complaints-on-waste-sewage-air-and-water-quality-up-36-report/articleshow/101056770.cms  (17 June 2023)

AGRICULTURE

Punjab Govt hires consultant to shift from paddy-wheat cycle The government has roped in Boston Consulting Group (BCG) as a consultant, initially for six months, for helping the state in its efforts for crop diversification and management of crop stubble.The company is to be initially paid Rs 5.65 crore for planning the path to be adopted by the state for both diversification in agriculture and management of paddy stubble. Based on the plan, the government will take a call on whether to retain the consultant for the implementation of the plan.

Interestingly, the government had earlier constituted a committee of experts to help it prepare the agriculture policy, headed by Punjab Farmers and Farm Workers Commission chairman Sukhpal Singh. This committee is also reportedly preparing the agriculture policy. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/aap-govt-hires-consultant-to-shift-from-paddy-wheat-cycle-515483  (09 June 2023)

MONSOON 2023

El Niño & Arabian Sea cyclone fuel a bearish monsoon Even though the monsoon may pick up its bullish spirit by the end of June, as per forecasts, the prognosis for the long-term is worrying. Warming of oceans is producing more cyclones like Biparjoy closer to monsoon onset, interfering with the progression and distribution of the rains. It is a disquieting prospect for Indian agriculture Roxy Mathew Koll. https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/opinion/rainfall-roulette-el-nino-and-arabian-sea-cyclone-fuel-a-bearish-monsoon-10807781.html  (16 June 2023)

As per the IMD data, Meghalaya received an actual rainfall of 12.7 mm against the normal of 19.4mm, Mizoram received 5.0 mm against the normal of 14.1mm and Tripura recorded only 1.9 mm of rainfall against the normal of 16.1mm during this period. On the other hand, states like Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Sikkim received large excess rainfall while Assam received excess rainfall. Meanwhile, Manipur also received normal rainfall, as per the latest IMD update.

Arunachal Pradesh has recorded 68% more rainfall by receiving 24.5 mm of rain against the normal of 14.6 mm, Nagaland recorded 160% of excessive rainfall by receiving 22.6 mm of rain against the normal of 8.7 mm, and Sikkim recorded 158% of rainfall as it received 36.2 mm against the normal of 14.0 mm.  https://www.eastmojo.com/northeast-news/2023/06/13/sw-monsoon-3-ne-states-log-deficit-rains-4-others-record-excess/  (13 June 2023)

Less than Half Its Average Rainfall So Far  As per the IMD, India has collectively recorded only 30.6 mm in the first 15 days of June, falling short of the ‘normal’ for the period by 51%. Further, of the country’s 716 districts, nearly half have seen ‘large deficient’ precipitation, meaning their rainfall stats were 60% to 90% lesser than the averages between June 1 and 14. Another 19% of the districts saw ‘deficient’ rains where the averages fell short by 20% to 59% in the same duration. The worst-hit state seems to be Chattisgarh, which has recorded a 95% deficit in the first half of June. Closely following the Central Indian state are Uttar Pradesh (-93%), Jharkhand (-91%), Bihar (-83%) and Maharashtra (-83%). https://weather.com/en-IN/india/monsoon/news/2023-06-15-india-recorded-less-than-half-its-average-rainfall-so-far-this  (15 June 2023)

High Rainfall districts on June 18, 2023:

50-100 mm: Baksa, Barpeta, Cachar, Chirang, Dhubri, Goalpara, Hailakandi, Karimganj, Nalbari (Assam), East Garo Hills, East Khasi Hills, W Garo Hills (Meghalaya), N Sikkim, S Sikkim, W Sikkim, Darjeeling, Kochbihar (W Bengal), Jodhpur (W Rajasthan), Rajsamand (E Rajasthan), Patan (Gujarat), S Goa [21]

100-150 mm: Kokrajhar (Assam), SW Khasi Hills (Meghalaya), Jalpaiguri (W Bengal), Barmer (W Rajasthan), Banaskantha (Gujarat) [5]

150-200 mm: Pali (W Rajasthan) [1]

200-250 mm: Jalor (W Rajasthan), Sirohi (E Rajasthan) [2]

Source: IMD’s daily district wise rainfall report for June 18, 2023. https://mausam.imd.gov.in/responsive/rainfall_statistics.php 

High Rainfall districts on June 17, 2023:

50-100 mm: Lower Subansiri (Arunachal Pradesh), Barpeta, Cachar, Goalpara, Nalbari, Udalgiri (Assam), East Garo Hills, East Jaintia Hills, East Khasi Hills, North Garo Hills, SW Garo Hills (Meghalaya), Imphal W, Tamenglong (Manipur), Dhalai, N Tripura, S Tripura, Unakoti (Tripura),  N Sikkim, Jalpariguri (W Bengal), Sirohi (W Rajasthan), Banaskantha, Patan, Sabarkantha (Gujarat), Devbhoomi Dwarka, Jamnagar, Morbi, Rajkot (Saurashtra) [25]

100-150 mm: Karimganj (Assam), W Khasi Hills (Meghalaya,  [2]

150-200 mm: Kutch (Saurashtra) [1]

200-250 mm: [0]

 Source: IMD’s daily district wise rainfall report for June 17, 2023. https://mausam.imd.gov.in/responsive/rainfall_statistics.php 

High Rainfall districts on June 16, 2023:

50-100 mm: East Siang, Lower Dibang Valley (Arunachal Pradesh), Barpeta, Dhemaji, Karimganj, Nalbari (Assam), East Garo Hills, South Garo Hills , W Garo Hills (Meghalaya), Aizwal, Kolasib, Lawngtlai, Sahai (Mizoram), W Tripura, W Sikkim, Kochbihar (W Bengal), Devbhoomi Dwarka, Jamnagar, Kutch (Saurashtra) [19]

100-150 mm: Baksa (Assam), E Jaintia Hills (Meghalaya, [2]

150-200 mm: SW Khasi Hills (Meghalaya) [1]

200-250 mm: E Kahsi Hills (Meghalaya) [1]

Source: IMD’s daily district wise rainfall report for June 16, 2023. https://mausam.imd.gov.in/responsive/rainfall_statistics.php

High Rainfall districts on June 15, 2023:

50-100 mm: Upper Siang (Arunachal Pradesh), Baksa, Barpeta, Cachar, Chirang, Dhemaji, Dhubri, Goalpara, Kokrajhar, NC Hills, Nalbari (Assam), East Garo Hills, North Garo Hills , W Khasi Hills (Meghalaya), Imphal West (Manipur), North Tripura, North Sikkim, Jalpaiguri, Kochbihar (W Bengal), Amritsar (Punjab) [20]

100-150 mm: Karimganj (Assam) [1]

150-200 mm: E Khasi Hills, SW Khasi Hills (Meghalaya) [2]

200-250 mm: [0]

Source: IMD’s daily district wise rainfall report for June 15, 2023. https://mausam.imd.gov.in/responsive/rainfall_statistics.php 

High Rainfall districts on June 14, 2023:

50-100 mm: Upper Siang (Arunachal Pradesh), Dhemaji, Dhubri, Lakhimpur (Assam), North C Hills, E Garo Hills, W Khasi Hills (Meghalaya), Dev Bhoomidwaraka (Saurashtra),  [8]

100-150 mm: [0]

150-200 mm: E Khasi Hills (Meghalaya) [1]

200-250 mm: E Jaintia Hills, SW Khasi Hills (Meghalaya) [2]

Source: IMD’s daily district wise rainfall report for June 14, 2023. https://mausam.imd.gov.in/responsive/rainfall_statistics.php 

High Rainfall districts on June 13, 2023:

50-100 mm: Diu, Porbandar (Gujarat) [2]

100-150 mm: Gir Somnath, Junagarh (Gujarat) [2]

Source: IMD’s daily district wise rainfall report for June 13, 2023. https://mausam.imd.gov.in/responsive/rainfall_statistics.php   

High Rainfall districts on June 12, 2023:

50-100 mm: North & Middle Andaman, South Andaman, Papum-Pare (Arunachal Pradesh), Golaghat, Karimganj, Lakhimpur (Assam), West Sikkim, Darjeeling, Kochbihar, Malda, Uttar Dinajpur [11]

Source: IMD’s daily district wise rainfall report for June 12, 2023. https://mausam.imd.gov.in/responsive/rainfall_statistics.php    

FLOOD 2023

Assam River Puthimari in Brahmaputra basin has breached old HFL 144.51 m dated 19.06.2022 at DRF flood monitoring station in Baksa district and has set 144.79 m as new HFL at 07:00 hour on 17.06.2023. The river is still flowing in extreme flood situation.

River Suklai in Brahmaputra basin has breached old HFL 75.85 m dated 25.06.2020 at Suklai flood monitoring station in Baksa district and with a rise of 0.16 m has set a new HFL 76.01 m there at 21:00 hour on 15.06.2023. The river remained in extreme flood flood situation for about 16 hours. Present flood level is 75.1 m at 12:00 hour on 17.06.2023 with falling trend.

The flood situation in Lower Assam is likely to worsen after Bhutan released excess water from the Kurichhu Hydropower Plant reservoir in Kuricchu River in Bhutan, reports emerged on Sunday (June 18 2023). The Kaladiya River and the Pahumara River in the Barpeta district are flowing above the danger level as a result of the release of excess water. https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/assam-on-high-alert-after-bhutan-releases-excess-dam-water-amidst-flood-havoc-in-state-600495-2023-06-19  (19 June 2023)

Rajasthan Cyclone Biparjoy Impact: Breach in Surava dam and Narmada canal following excessive in Jalore district floods colonies in Sanchor city.  जालोर जिले के सांचौर शहर जहां सुबह तक पानी की एक बूंद नहीं थी। वहां महज 15 मिनट में कॉलोनियां पानी में डूब गईं। सांचौर में सुरावा बांध और नर्मदा नहर टूटने से पानी शहर में घुस गया है और 50 हजार से ज्यादा की आबादी प्रभावित हुई है। इससे पहले पूरी रात शहर में मुनादी करवाई गई और बाजार और घर खाली करवाए गए। https://www.bhaskar.com/local/rajasthan/news/40-thousand-population-drowned-in-water-in-15-minutes-people-left-their-homes-at-2-oclock-in-the-night-131419702.html  (19 June 2023)

News about Dam and canal breach in Sanchore, Barmer, SIrhoi districts. https://www.enavabharat.com/india/rajasthan-dam-and-narmada-canal-broken-due-to-heavy-rains-of-biparjoy-sanchore-may-drown-floods-in-barmer-sirohi-jalore-rain-since-36-hours-760758/  (18 June 2023)

River Banas at Swaroopganj level monitoring station in Sirohi district has been gained 4.08 metre rise (from 328.52 m at 11:00 hr on 16.06.23 to 332.6 m at 08:00 hr on 19.06.23) in last three days and continue to flow with rising trend.

Gujarat River Sipu at Bhakudar (Sipu dam) level monitoring site in Banaskantha district has gained 06.15 metre rise (from 172.04 m at 10:00 hr on 16.06.23 to 178.19 m at 09:00 hr on 19.06.23) in last three days with rising trend.

Though, CWC has not maintained/published old HFL record for these sites, the rivers seem to be flowing in extreme flood situation at these sites. 

URBAN FLOOD

Bengaluru Call for coordination to prevent rain-related disasters Rakesh Singh, additional chief secretary (urban development department) who also holds the charge of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike administrator, directed different government agencies on Thursday to coordinate among themselves to prevent untoward incidents in the monsoon. A meeting held under his chairmanship was attended by the heads of city police, BBMP, Bangalore Electricity Company, Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board and the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/coordination-among-govt-agencies-prevent-rain-related-disasters-bengaluru-8665102/  (15 June 2023)

The BBMP has removed 25 to 30 encroachments from stormwater drains (SWDs) in the last 15 days to reduce flood risks during the monsoon.  https://www.deccanherald.com/city/top-bengaluru-stories/bengaluru-palike-removes-encroachments-from-swds-to-avoid-flooding-1228192.html  (16 June 2023)

The Parappana Agrahara police have slapped a notice against a property owner in a case pertaining to the demolition of a portion of a storm-water drain, allegedly built on private land illegally. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/man-served-police-notice-over-demolition-of-the-half-built-drain/article66967754.ece  (14 June 2023)

Hyderabad To avoid inundation of low-lying areas during monsoon and downpours, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) during the year 2022-23, took up 968 works related to stormwater drains with Rs 533.79 crore. These works included re-modelling of the drains. Among them, 462 works costing Rs 216.11 crore have been completed and the remaining are under various stages of implementation. https://telanganatoday.com/ghmc-takes-up-968-works-related-to-stormwater-drains  (16 June 2023)

DISASTERS

Jammu & Kashmir 4 earthquakes trigger panic among residents The Jammu region on Wednesday (June 14) saw four fresh earthquakes, triggering panic among residents in the area. The fresh tremors follow a 5.4 magnitude earthquake in the Doda region the day before. Officials said there were no reports so far of any loss of life or damage to property.  Tuesday’s (June 13) quake damaged several buildings in the twin mountainous districts of Doda and Kishtwar. Five people, including two schoolchildren, suffered injuries, while schools were shut as a precautionary measure by the administration. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/four-fresh-earthquakes-hit-jammu-region/articleshow/100982023.cms  (14 June 2023)

The J&K as well as the Ladakh region were hit by 5 mild earthquakes on Saturday, with two of the jolts being within two hours of each other. The highest intensity earthquake in the area was 4.5 magnitude according to the Richter scale. https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-earthquake-in-india-5-back-to-back-earthquakes-hit-jammu-kashmir-tremors-felt-in-delhi-ncr-ladakh-3048133  (17 June 2023)

A 3.0 magnitude earthquake struck J&K on Saturday (June 17) afternoon. The epicentre of the tremor, which occurred at 2.03 pm, was hilly Ramban district along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway, an official of the meteorological department said. Aanother earthquake of 3.2 magnitude jolted Manipur’s Ukhrul at 10.30 am, as per the National Center for Seismology (NCS). https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/earthquake-of-3-2-magnitude-hits-manipurs-ukhrul/articleshow/101063311.cms  (17 June 2023)

Meghalaya An earthquake measuring 4.8 on the Richter Scale rocked Shillong city and other parts of Meghalaya at 10.16 am on Friday (June 16). The quake was epicentred in Gopalganj area of neighbouring Bangladesh, according to the NCS. The tremors were felt in most parts of Assam as well. No loss of life or damage to property has been reported yet. https://theshillongtimes.com/2023/06/17/4-8-magnitude-quake-jolts-meghalaya/  (17 June 2023)

LANDSLIDES

North East Landslides wreck road links in 3 states Incessant monsoon rain wreaked havoc, triggering multiple landslides across Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh derailing surface communication. National Highway-6 that connects Guwahati with Barak Valley in south Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur and Mizoram closed again due to fresh landslides at Sonapur tunnel in the East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya, while several houses were damaged in landslides in the hills of Guwahati.

Sonapur tunnel was opened to traffic late on Wednesday (June 14) as another mudslide hit the tunnel that brought movement of vehicles to a grinding halt the previous day. “The Sonapur tunnel is located in a sliding zone and mudslides have been reoccurring due to incessant rain in the last couple of days,” said an official of NHAI. Hundreds of vehicles remained stranded on the stretch, even as efforts were on to clear debris by the authorities. Road communication continued to be impacted due to landslides at about a dozen locations in Balipara-Charidur-Tawang highway that connects northern Assam with Arunachal Pradesh. Landslides were reported near Lumum fall and in Bhalukpung. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/landslides-wreck-road-links-in-three-states-tree-crushes-man-in-barpeta/articleshow/101033157.cms  (16 June 2023)

Sikkim Following extensive damage to roads and terrain caused by heavy monsoon rainfall in North Sikkim, the Indian Army rescued 300 more tourists on Sunday (June 18).  https://www.eastmojo.com/sikkim/2023/06/18/indian-army-rescues-300-more-tourists-from-north-sikkim/  (18 June 2023)

Meghalaya Due to the prevailing weather conditions in the district, the landslide at Sonapyrdi Tunnel on the NH6 has worsened blocking both sides of the road and has rendered it unsafe for travel and use at present. https://theshillongtimes.com/2023/06/17/landslide-at-sonapyrdi-tunnel-on-nh-6-blocks-road/  (17 June 2023)

Arunachal Pradesh Heavy landslides triggered by torrential rain over the last few days in Upper Siang district blocked the road between district headquarters Yingkiong and Tuting at several places, the Tuting ADC informed. However, there were no reports of loss of life or properties. https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2023/06/15/landslides-block-yingkiong-tuting-road/  (15 June 2023)

CLOUD BURSTS

Himachal Pradesh Cloudburst: JCB machine, bridge swept away A cloudburst struck the Mandap area of Dharampur in Mandi district, causing damage to the under-construction bridge and road. The incident occurred during the ongoing construction work on the Gayun-Draman Road bridge. Thankfully, no casualties have been reported in the aftermath of this calamity.

The cloudburst swept away a JCB machine into the raging waters of Gayun Khad, a local stream, while simultaneously burying approximately 200 iron plates intended for use in the construction of bridge pillars under a massive debris pile. https://thenewshimachal.com/2023/06/cloudburst-in-dharampur-jcb-machine-and-bridge-construction-material-swept-away/  (June 11 2023)

Jammu & Kashmir Couple among 4 killed in cloudburst, lighting incidents A senior police officer told  that there was cloudburst incident at Bujbagh area of Pampore in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district this afternoon, resulting in the death of two persons namely Hilal Ahmed Hanji (25) and his wife Rozia Jan (25). Separately, officials told that two persons died when lightning struck them at a high-altitude meadow land in Mujpathri area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district. https://gulistannewstv.com/couple-among-4-killed-in-cloudburst-lighting-incidents-in-kashmir/  (06 May 2023)

ENVIRONMENT GOVERNANCE

Source: Deccan Herald, June 13, 2023.

Arunachal Pradesh Board formed for environment plan  The Tirap district administration has constituted a seven-member district-level environment board, with DC Hento Karga as its chairman, for preparing the district’s environment plan. The DC urged all the line departments to “provide information and identify the geographical location, climate, rainfall, minerals, forest, flora, fauna, and places of tourist attraction and other characteristic features of Tirap.” https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2023/06/16/board-formed-for-environment-plan/  (16 June 2023)

Kerala Sacred grove at Manikavu is a verdant sanctuary in Wayanad The sacred grove of the Manikavu Sree Mahadeva temple in Wayanad under the Malabar Devaswom Board has set a model in transforming barren land into a ‘forest’ with the addition of rare endemic and threatened (RET) plant species of the Western Ghats. The model has been set up by the temple authorities with the support of M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), the Social Forestry and Soil Conservation departments and the Meenangadi grama panchayat. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/this-sacred-grove-at-manikavu-is-a-verdant-sanctuary-in-wayanad/article66977385.ece  (18 June 2023)

CLIMATE CHANGE

Uttar Pradesh 54 people have died and around 400 hospitalised in Ballia District Hospital in the last three days amid soaring temperatures. Doctors have said that though there are different reasons for the deaths, severe heat could be a factor. Hospitalisations are rising because of severe heat, they said. A severe heatwave has swept UP, with most places seeing temperatures north of 40 degrees.  https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/heatwave-in-uttar-pradesh-ballia-district-hospital-54-dead-400-hospitalised-in-72-hours-at-up-district-hospital-due-to-severe-heat-4130837   (18 June 2023)

Report More companies setting ‘net-zero’ climate targets, but few have credible plans. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/more-companies-setting-net-zero-climate-targets-but-few-have-credible-plans-report-says/article66960253.ece  (12 June 2023)

SOUTH ASIA

Nepal Challenges in Small Transboundary Rivers Study by Ajaya Dixit et al: This study highlights how structural interventions and dysfunctional policies that neglect and free-ride the terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity of Chure Basin (CB) districts in Nepal have cascade impacts on the well-being of humans and nature.

CB rivers, dependent on the monsoon and the Chure range, which is hydro-morphologically diverse, behave uniquely and respond differently from climate and land use/ landcover changes, and other human interventions.  https://isetnepal.org.np/catalyzing-change-for-resilience-across-boundaries-challenges-in-nepals-small-transboundary-rivers/  (09 June 2023)

2 dead, 28 missing in floods. Worst not over yet, forecasters warn Two people were killed and 28 are missing after major flooding and landslides caused by monsoon rains in eastern Nepal. A worker at a hydropower project under construction on the Hewa River in Sankhuwasabha district was found dead, while 17 other staff were missing. Machinery and equipment for the hydropower project have been swept away. There are also reports of houses being damaged,” assistant chief district officer said. https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/nepal-floods-2-dead-28-missing-in-nepal-floods-worst-not-over-yet-forecasters-warn-101687085180712-amp.html  (18 June 2023)

Bhutan 10 hydropower projects in pipeline to generate 7,600MW The Govt informed the Parliament on June 16, 2023 in Budget for the coming year: Under Construction Hydro Projects:

– Punatsangchhu I: The long delayed 1,200MW project is still waiting for the decision of the Inter- Governmental Group (IGG) whether to go ahead with the dam or switch to the barrage option. Nu 85.2B has been disbursed. 87.7 percent of the works completed. The IGG was constituted on Jan 16 2023 to review and find a technically safe and cost-effective way forward. The group is expected to submit the report to the two governments in June 2023.

– Punatsangchhu – II: The 1,020MW project is scheduled to be commissioned in 2024. The project will see cost escalate from Nu 72.9B (March 2015) to about Nu 94.4B. As of April, a total of Nu 79.7B has been disbursed and 94.7 percent of the works completed.

– Kholongchhu: Stalled. The government will resume the implementation of the 600MW HEP. The Joint Venture has been closed and the Druk Green Power Corp has bought the shares of SJVNL in Jan 2023. Discussion on debt financing for the project in progress.

– 118MW Nikachhu HEP: Likely to be the first to be commissioned, scheduled for later this year. The total project cost is estimated at Nu 11.964B. As of April, the project has spent Nu 11.903B and the overall project progress 92.6%.

– Three small hydro projects with a total installed capacity of 104 MW are currently under construction. The projects – 54 MW Burgangchhu, 32 MW Yungichhu, and 18 MW Suchhu, are planned to be commissioned between 2024 and 2025. A total fund requirement of Nu 9.320B is projected.

PLANNED PROJECTS: the 10 projects in pipeline are the 600MW Kholongchhu hydroelectric project, that has come to a halt, the 2,640MW Kuri-Gongri hydroelectric project (Draft DPR presented by WAPCOS in May 2023), 1,125 Dorjilung hydropower project (DRP under preparation, likely to be completed in Dec 2024. The World Bank has been requested to take the lead in coordinating a consortium financing for Dorjilung.), 404MW Nyera Amari hydropower project, 180MW Bunakha reservoir hydroelectric project (DRP completed for both. The ADB has been requested for project structuring to take the project forward.), 2,500MW integrated Gongri reservoir/Jerichhu pumped storage project (Feasibility report being done) and five small hydropower projects that will generate 181MW (feasibility report ongoing for 90 MW Jomori, 45 MW Gamri-I, 26 (18+8) MW Druk Bindu I&II, and 20 MW Begana). https://kuenselonline.com/10-hydropower-projects-in-pipeline-to-generate-7600mw/  (13 June 2023)

ASIA

How South Korea Puts Its Food Scraps to Good Use Very interesting example of South Korea having banned the dumping of food waste at landfill sites in 2005 and how it processes it to produce food for poultry, fertiliser and fuel (methane or biogas) by spending annually $600 million a year, and charging those who waste it.  This helps protect water sources from pollution, besides reducing the emissions hugely among other benefits. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/14/world/asia/south-korea-food-waste.html  (14 June 2023)

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

Also see: DRP News Bulletin 12 June 2023 & DRP News Bulletin 05 June 2023  

Follow us on: www.facebook.com/sandrp.in; https://twitter.com/Indian_Rivers