(Feature Image: Breach in Karam dam, Madhya Pradesh. Source:- Social Media)
It was on Aug 13, 2022, a year ago when the Karam dam wall in Dhar district in Madhya Pradesh started leaking water. Two days later it collapsed. The people who suffered during the disaster continue to suffer. The engineers who were supposed to ensure proper construction of the dam, following all the norms, did not do that, were supposed to be suspended, but got reinstated elsewhere. They kept quiet in the courts. The black listed contractor continues to build more dams.
A clearer evidence of the nexus that supports unwanted, destructive, costly, corruption ridden and disastrous dams would be difficult to find. As the destruction due to dams and such other unaccountable infrastructure development plays out in Himachal Pradesh & elsewhere this year, the nexus that thrives on opaque, unaccountable and non-participatory governance continues to happily grow even as the changing rainfall patterns bring greater disasters before our eyes.
Madhya Pradesh One Year of Karam Dam Disaster: Affected villagers still suffering आज 13 अगस्त है…कारम डैम की बरसी है। पिछले साल आज ही के दिन 300 करोड़ रुपए की सिंचाई परियोजना के लिए बने कारम डैम की दीवार से रिसाव शुरू हो गया था। रातोंरात 18 गांव खाली करा लिए गए थे। लोग अपने पशुओं के साथ जान बचाने के लिए ऊंची जगहों पर शरण लिए हुए थे। प्रार्थना कर रहे थे कि बारिश बंद हो जाए। 48 घंटे की कोशिश के बाद रिसती दीवार के एक हिस्से को काटकर पूरा पानी बहा दिया गया था। लोगों की जिंदगी तो बच गई, लेकिन डैम के पानी के साथ आई उस बाढ़ में इन गांवों के खेत भी बह गए।
जब पानी उतरा तो देखा कि जहां फसल लगी थी, वहां केवल पत्थर और चट्टानें हैं। सरकार ने इनके खेत बंजर करने का सौदा तीन से पांच हजार के मुआवजे देकर कर लिया। ये आज भी दस्तावेजों में खेतों के मालिक हैं, लेकिन पेट पालने के लिए दूसरे के वहां दिहाड़ी करने जाते हैं। कयामत की उस रात के बाद जो सवेरा हुआ, उसमें लोगों का पेट भरने वाला अन्नदाता, आज तक दाने-दाने को मोहताज हैं।
सरकार ने आनन फानन में एक जांच करवाई। जांच रिपोर्ट के आधार पर जल संसाधन विभाग के 8 इंजीनियरों को सस्पेंड कर दिया गया। जांच रिपोर्ट में कहा गया कि इंजीनियरों ने अपने काम में लापरवाही बरती। न तो उन्होंने निरीक्षण किया, न ही गुणवत्ता का ध्यान रखा। सरकार ने इनके सुरक्षित रिटायरमेंट के लिए इनका निलंबन खत्म किया, ताकि इन्हें कोई दिक्कत न हो। बाकी इंजीनियरों को भोपाल और उज्जैन ऑफिस भेज दिया। सरकारी कागजों में ये अफसर निलंबित हैं, लेकिन अपना काम कर रहे हैं। खास बात ये है कि ये तमाम इंजीनियरों को बांध में धांधली की जानकारी पहले से थी, फिर भी ऊपर से मिले इशारे के बाद इन्होंने कंपनी को फ्री हैंड दे दिया था।
हाईकोर्ट में सरकार और जलसंसाधन विभाग के इंजीनियर चुप रहे। नतीजा ये हुआ कि सारथी कंस्ट्रक्शन पहले की तरह पाक-साफ हो गई। इसी सारथी कंस्ट्रक्शन के पास मध्यप्रदेश के अन्य डैम बनाने का भी जिम्मा है। सोलंकी कहते हैं कि एएनएस और सारथी दोनों ही कंपनियां पहले भी ब्लैकलिस्ट थीं, लेकिन जानबूझकर इन्हें काम दिया गया। क्या सरकार को दूसरी ऐसी कंपनी नहीं मिलीं जो 300 करोड़ का काम कर सकती थीं? सरकार ने जानबूझकर एएनएस को काम दिया और जब एएनएस ने सारथी को पेटी काॅन्ट्रेक्ट में पूरे डैम का काम सौंप दिया तब भी सरकार चुप रही? https://www.bhaskar.com/local/mp/news/the-karam-dam-of-corruption-washed-away-the-fields-131681023.html (13 Aug. 2023)
कारम डैम के बचे काम का जिम्मा फिर उसी कंपनी को सौपा गया है, जिसकी लापरवाही के कारण हजारों लोगों की जान पर बन आई थी। बांध को तोड़कर सरकार को पानी बहाना पड़ा था। https://www.amarujala.com/madhya-pradesh/dhar/karam-dam-dhar-only-the-blacklisted-company-was-given-the-work-of-karam-dam-again (05 Nov. 2022)
HYDRO POWER PROJECTS
Arunachal Pradesh Unviable hydro projects dumped on Central PSUs: Experts “The private sector no longer sees these projects economically viable and that is why they did not develop them even after putting in a lot of resources over the years. In the end, they sold it to the PSUs, at a loss in many cases,” Himanshu Thakkar, coordinator of South Asia Network on Dams (SANDRP) told The Hindu on Sunday. “The public sector has no accountability and so they can implement unviable projects,” he added. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/unviable-arunachal-hydro-projects-have-been-dumped-on-central-psus-say-experts/article67190744.ece (13 August 2023)
Divestment of HEO & TATO-1 Hydro power projects VELCAN HOLDINGS Group announces it has fully divested its Heo – Tato-1 tandem of hydropower projects (2 hydropower totaling 426 MW located in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, India, hereafter the “Projects”), taken over by a major utility owned by the Government of India. The Projects were the 2 largest projects of the Group’s cascade of 3 hydropower projects. Following this sale, the Group is left with the third project of the said cascade, the Pauk HEP (145 MW), its last greenfield hydropower project. The entire cascade development was suspended in September 2021, since the Government of Arunachal Pradesh (GoAP) had refused to consider vital amendments to the corresponding concession agreements. This came on top of the numerous deadlocks encountered by the projects during the past years regarding essential development activities which mostly depended on the Governments (central and local), such as the delays in the road infrastructure, the inability of the GoAP to make significant progress in the land acquisition and the inability of electricity distribution companies to sign long term bankable power purchase agreements… the sector environment proved to be extremely unfavourable to private developers. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2023/08/09/2721939/0/en/VELCAN-HOLDINGS-DIVESTMENT-OF-THE-HEO-AND-TATO-1-HYDROPOWER-TANDEM.html (10 August 2023)
Govt set to sign mega power MoA with PSUs Key message:- Earlier, all these projects were allotted to the private developers. The government of Arunachal Pradesh scrapped the MoAs after the developers failed to execute the project. These projects have been facing resistance from locals in certain areas especially, in the Siang basin. In the previous MoAs the state government had 26% stake in projects Kamala, Etalin and Attunli with the Jindal Hydropower Limited. The Siang Indigenous Farmers’ Forum (SIFF), along with the residents of the Siang river basin and other stakeholders has been strongly opposing hydropower projects in the Siang basin. The SIFF had filed a PIL at the Itanagar permanent b ench of the Gauhati High Court in 2014, and the case was disposed of in 2022 in favour of the petitioners, with an instruction to the state government that “in the coming future, the consent and consultation must be sought from the affected locals for any such dam project.” They had also raised their concern about the mega dam during the United Nations’ Human Rights meeting held in Kathmandu (Nepal) in March this year.
– Of the 13 projects, the SJVN has been allotted 5 projects from Dibang basin which are Amulin HEP (420 MW), Emini (500 MW), Mihundon HEP (400 MW), Etalin HEP (3097 MW) and Attunli HEP (680 MW). The projects allotted to NEEPCO are Tato- I HEP (186 MW), Tato-II HEP (700 MW), Naying HEP (1000 MW), Hirong HEP (500 MW) and Heo HEP (240 MW) in the Siang basin. The NHPC will take Kamala HEP (1800 MW) and Subansiri Upper HEP (2000 MW) in the Subansiri basin while THDCL will execute Kalai- II HEP (1200 MW) in Lohit basin. https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2023/08/10/arunachal-govt-set-to-sign-mega-power-moa-with-psus/ (10 August 2023)
Centre reviews small hydro power development The ministry of new and renewable energy (MNRE) conducted a meeting with the Federation of Indian Small Hydro Power (FISH), regarding development of Small Hydro Power here on Wednesday (Aug. 09). The discussions were held on why small hydro power projects allotted have not taken off in various states. Key issues like water cess & free power imposed by respective state governments, bidding systems adopted, FCA clearance, non-signing of PPA by state DISCOMS, power evacuations were deliberated on.
-Highlighting about signing of numerous MoU’s between GoAP with CPSU to develop mega hydro projects in the state, the CMD emphasized on developing small hydro power in the state of Arunachal Pradesh for providing construction power requirements to the mega project developers. https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2023/08/10/centre-reviews-small-hydro-power-development/ (10 August 2023)
Anti-Dam Activist Ebo Mili Detained
An anti-dam activist and advocate Ebo Mili, was detained by the state police on August 12, along with a colleague, for staging a peaceful protest outside a banquet hall in Itanagar, where the BJP government was engaged in signing MoAs with public sector undertakings (PSUs) to unroll 12 stalled hydropower projects, the Arunachal Times reported. https://thewire.in/rights/arunachali-anti-dam-activist-ebo-mili-detained-for-protesting-against-signing-of-hydropower-projects (13 Aug. 2023)
Mega dam, mega damage Mega dams have always been criticised by experts because of their negative and immitigable environmental and social impacts. You build mega dams, there will be mega damages! Dams can bring both benefits and problems, but problems greatly outweigh the benefits. Although hydropower is said to be a clean and green source of energy, a closer look reveals that it is far from clean and green. Dams always have a huge impact on human existence and can be extremely harmful to local human populations in a number of ways. Dams cause huge losses of forest and farmlands and soil erosions. Aquatic species, particularly fishes, are vulnerable to the impacts of dams. https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2023/08/14/mega-dam-mega-damage/ (14 August 2023)
West Bengal Cancel Turga & Bandu Pump Storage Projects Demand for Cancellation of Turga-Bandu Pump Storage Project and Condemning the Undemocratic-Dictatorial Behaviour of the District Administration.
– On 13.6.2017 the then Purulia District Magistrate released a letter stating that the inhabitants to be affected by the Turga Pump Storage Project had no opposition to land being acquired for the same. He referred to written resolutions of Bagmundy and Ajodhaya Gram Panchayat and Bagmundi Block Development Officer’s in this regard. The referred resolutions presented dated to 20.3.2017 and 23.3.2017 where 10 and 24 individuals were signatories in each. Among these 34 individuals, many were not the inhabitants of the panchayat, but based on their signatures the government had planned to acquire agricultural land of 9 villages, their traditional sites of worship (jaher than) including the revered Marang Buru (hill God) and their sources of livelihood. In 2018 after getting to know about this, the people of Ajodhaya hills came together and started to resist.
– It is not just about Turga, but even on Bandu river, the government is trying to carry out a futile project without taking the Gram Sabha’s consent, and by destroying 400 Ha forests and uprooting 10 villages. https://countercurrents.org/2023/08/cancel-turga-and-bandu-pump-storage-projects/ (10 August 2023)
Delhi Govt aims to reduce dependence on hydropower As Delhi state prepares for the impact of climate change, the city government’s draft State Action Plan on Climate Change suggests reduction on reliance on import of hydropower projects as it gets affected by temperature and precipitation. https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/renewable/delhis-draft-climate-action-plan-aims-to-reduce-dependence-on-hydropower-from-other-states/102499253 (7 August 2023)
Chhattisgarh Govt to set up 5 pump storage hydro projects with total capacity of 7700 MW. https://www.bhaskar.com/local/chhattisgarh/raipur/news/chhattisgarh-currently-has-4-plants-to-generate-electricity-from-water-131650243.html (7 August 2023)
Maharashtra Tata Power and State Govt had signed up a Rs 13000 Cr MOU to set up two Pump Storage Projects: 1800 MW project at Shirawta, Pune and 1000 MW project at Bhivpuri, Raigad. https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/renewable/tata-power-govt-of-maharashtra-sign-mou-for-two-pumped-hydro-storage-of-2800-mw/102537670 (08 Aug. 2023)
MoEF Decisions of the EAC meeting on River Valley Projects held on July 24, 2023:
1. Expansion of Krishna Koyna Lift Irrigation Project in Sangli and Solapur Districts Maharashtra by Dept of Irrigation, SANGLI, MAHARASHTRA: For EC: Approved
2. Kharauli Pumped Storage Project by KHARAULI ENERGY PRIVATE LIMITED at Surajpur, CG for TOR: Approved
3. Gond Major Irrigation Project SINGRAULI,MADHYA PRADESH for TOR: Approved
4. Chittamvalasa Pumped Storage Hydro-Electric Project (800 MW) by NEW & RENEWABLE ENERGY DEVELOPMENT Corp OF ANDHRA PRADESH LTD at ALLURI SITHARAMA RAJU, AP: Approved
5. Renukaji Dam Project by HIMACHAL PRADESH POWER CORP Ltd at SIRMAUR, HIMACHAL PRADESH for Validity of Ext of EC dated 23.10.2009: EAC says it is valid till 22.10.2025 https://parivesh.nic.in/utildoc/7838060_1691660428740.pdf
AGENDA FOR MEETING OF EAC (RIVER VALLEY & HYDRO-ELECTRIC PROJECTS) TO BE HELD ON 11TH AUGUST, 2023:
1. Shirawta Off Stream Open Loop Pumped Storage Project (1800 MW) in 197.8 ha at Village Khandshi, Tehsil Maval, Dist Pune, Maharashtra by Tata Power Company Ltd – Terms of References
2. Bhivpuri Off-Stream Open Loop Pumped Storage Project (1000 MW) in 74 ha at Village Vadeshwar and Bhivpuri, Tehsil Karjat and Mawal, Dist Raigarh and Pune, Maharashtra by Tata Power Co. Ltd. – Terms of References
3. Ramial Left Bank Close Loop Pumped Storage Project (1500 MW) in 335.25 ha at Village Patkelipur and Godinarda, Tehsil Telkoi, Dist Keonjhar, Odisha by Renew Solar Power Pvt Ltd– Terms of References
4. Musakhand Close Loop Pumped Storage Project (600 MW) in 313.70 ha at Village Mobarakpur and Jamsoti, Tehsil Chakia, Dist Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh by Acme Cleantech Solutions Pvt Ltd– Terms of References
5. Saidongar-1 Closed Loop Pumped Storage Project (3000 MW) in 279.69 ha at Village Saidongar, Kusur and Dhak, Tehsil Mawal and Karjat, Dist Pune and Raigarh, Maharashtra by Torrent Power Ltd for TOR
6. Saidongar-2 Closed Loop Pumped Storage Project (1200 MW) in 132.59 ha at Village Saidongar, Kusur and Dhak, Tehsil Mawal and Karjat, Dist Pune and Raigarh, Maharashtra by Torrent Power Ltd –Terms of References
7. Tokarpada Close Loop Pumped Storage Project (1300 MW) in 168.78 ha at Village Tokarpada and Vavar, Tehsil Kaprada, Dist Valsad, Gujarat by Torrent Power Ltd– Terms of References
8. Pindval Closed Loop Pumped Storage Project (1000 MW) in 165.88 ha at Village Pindval & Moti Kosbadi, Taluk Dharampur, Dist Valsad, Gujarat by Torrent Power Ltd for TOR
9. Raiwada Close Loop Pumped Storage Project (850 MW) in 337.10 ha at Village Mariki and Sammeda, Tehsil Devarapalle and Vepada, Dist Anakapalli and Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh by Adani Green Energy Ltd for TOR https://parivesh.nic.in/utildoc/7750571_1691412524892.pdf
DAMS
Study Need to re-think global water storage A recent IWMI study estimated that worldwide water storage has decreased by 27,000 billion m3 over the past 50 years. Decades of lake, wetland and soil degradation, reservoir sedimentation, and over-abstraction of groundwater, have all reduced water storage. Another study showed that, in the last 20 years, so much water has been abstracted from groundwater aquifers that it has not only added to sea level rise, but also altered the tilt of the Earth. Declining water storage is a major contributor to local and regional water crises that threaten millions of people and ecosystems worldwide.
– Over the past 70 years, large dam construction globally has resulted in the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services and threatened the livelihoods and well-being of hundreds of millions of people. Not only have many communities been displaced by reservoir inundation, but changes in river flow downstream have undermined riverine (aquatic) ecosystems and the livelihoods of many people (e.g. fisherfolk).
– Consequently, the planning of, and investment in, water storage must go far beyond dams. Generating economic growth to lift the world’s poorest people out of poverty and meet their basic water, food, and energy needs, can only be sustainably achieved if future investments are rationalized and redirected away from traditionally built infrastructure. Instead, investments should be focused on implementing technology that is affordable, socially and culturally acceptable, and environmentally sustainable. Actions to stop and reverse the loss of both natural and built water storage would help enhance water security and buffer the negative impacts of climate change on ecosystems and society.
– Recognizing that there is a continuum from natural to built infrastructure, it is essential that we work towards a more comprehensive understanding of water storage “systems” that comprise both. We need to identify, design, and implement solutions that enhance complementarities and synergies, whilst also minimizing the trade-offs in benefits accruing from all forms of storage. Rewetting wetlands, regenerating soils, promoting infiltration, reconnecting floodplains, and re-meandering rivers all have a crucial role to play in slowing and storing water across landscapes so that more water is available for both people and nature.
– Insufficient storage greatly complicates future water resource management and undermines the resilience of increasingly “thirsty” human societies. Fully integrating natural infrastructure alongside built infrastructure in water resource planning and management requires systems approach those accounts for multiple ecosystem services and recognizes trade-offs from the perspectives of all stakeholders. This must be the future of water storage. https://www.iwmi.cgiar.org/2023/08/as-the-demand-for-water-rises-we-need-to-re-think-global-water-storage/ (4 August 2023)
Uttar Pradesh About pathetic condition of those displaced due to the Kanhar dam in Sonbhadra district. https://countercurrents.org/2023/08/displaced-people-of-kanhar-are-facing-the-brunt-of-displacement/ (07 Aug. 2023)
Polavaram Project Andhra CM pushes completion date to 2025; blames TDP Water from the Polavaram project will not reach farmers before 2025. In May 2019 the deadline was Kharif 2021. It was then postponed to 2022, 2023, 2024 and now 2025 https://thesouthfirst.com/andhrapradesh/jagan-pushes-polavaram-project-deadline-to-2025-blames-tdp-for-delay/ (12 August 2023)
Rajasthan Row over dams plans Senior Congress leader Jagdish Thakor on Thursday (Aug. 10) criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party after an MLA wrote to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel claiming two dams planned by neighbouring Congress-ruled Rajasthan could create acute water shortage in north Gujarat. BJP MLA and former minister Ramanlal Vora had recently written to CM Patel on the issue of Rajasthan planning to build dams on Sabarmati and Sei (a tributary of Sabarmati) rivers.
– “The main source of Dharoi dam is water coming from Rajasthan. If the Rajasthan government builds two dams on the upstream of Dharoi dam, then Dharoi dam may not get any water. This will create water scarcity in five districts of north Gujarat, especially Sabarkantha and Mehsana. In future, farmers of that region may have to migrate,” Vora said in his letter. The former minister then urged the state government to check with the Centre about this project and take appropriate steps. https://theprint.in/india/congress-slams-bjp-over-mlas-letter-to-gujarat-cm-about-rajasthans-plans-to-build-two-dams/1709724/ (10 August 2023)
Sardar Sarovar Project ‘Kachchh to get more water by 2025’ State water resources and water supply minister Kunvarji Bavaliya said on Thursday (Aug. 10) that Kachchh district will get additional 1 million cubic acre feet of water by 2025, as the government has been working on providing Narmada water to the region. He said in Gandhinagar that an additional 1.72 hectares of land will get irrigation water from the Narmada project. Bavaliya said that the state government has approved spending a sum of Rs 2,302.92 crore to install two water transportation pipelines in Kachchh district. He added that work on laying the pipelines will be taken up on priority by the state government.
– Farmers from 130 villages of Anjar, Mundra, Nakhatrana, Lakhpat, Abdasa and Rapar will receive water for irrigation through the projects, the statement said. Earlier, it was decided that 3 million cubic acre feet of Narmada water, which usually flowed downstream and into the Arabian Sea, will be diverted to North Gujarat, Saurashtra and Kachchh. The state government has announced that it will lay pipelines to provide 1 million cubic acre feet of water each to North Gujarat, Saurashtra and Kutch. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/kachchh-to-get-more-water-by-2025/articleshow/102629085.cms (10 August 2023)
INTERSTATE WATER DISPUTES
Cauvery Water Disputes Tamil Nadu to move SC against Karnataka Tamil Nadu on Aug 11 2023 has decided to move the Supreme Court against Karnataka for not releasing the Cauvery Water since June 1 this year as stipulated by the Tribunal and SC. Against stipulated 55.77 TMC water that should have been released between June 1 and Aug 11, TN has received 15.8 TMC. In the Cauvery Water Management authority meeting held on AUg 11 Karnataka said it can only release 8000 cusecs water till Aug 22, leading to walk out by TN. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/tamil-nadu/tamil-nadu-to-move-sc-against-karnataka-on-cauvery-water-2645024 (11 August 2023)
URBAN RIVERS
Devika; Udhampur Riverfront project near completion Devika river rejuvenation project in Udhampur (Jammu) has almost been completed at cost of Rs 190 Cr, says Union Minister. https://www.outlookindia.com/national/devika-rejuvenation-project-nearing-completion-union-minister-news-308597 (6 August 2023)
RIVERS
India River Forum Nominations open for BPS & AMM awards – India Rivers Week 2023. For more information kindly visit https://indiariversforum.org/nominations-awards-india-rivers-week-2023/.
SANDRP Blog River Sindh and its People by Apoorva Goel The Sindh River shapes the lives of those that live along it and who in turn shape the river. Sindh and its people come together as a whole to co-produce culture, resources, livelihoods, and paradigms. These have been the key to the world-making of this landscape- its past, present and future.
However, the current economic system has a more pronounced impact on this equation. The interests of the few in power such as the urban and rural elite have a greater impact on the river. In the name of development, they decide how the river is put to work by building dams and mining the riverbed for sand. A complex living system of the river and its people is reduced to a series of external objects – sand, water and labour. The resulting exploitation and destruction of the river disproportionately impact the lives of those that depend on it for sustenance, while the spoils of “development” go to those in power. https://sandrp.in/2023/08/12/co-sculptors-of-the-central-highlands-river-sindh-and-its-people/ (12 August 2023)
Madhya Pradesh NGT has taken strong exception to the claim of the MP officials about the Kaliasot river, a tributary of the Betwa river, that the river has changed course, to hide inaction against encroachments.
NGT said that the rivers with black basalt rock banks, as is the case with Kaliasot, do not change their course, do not try to fool us. https://www.bhaskar.com/local/mp/bhopal/news/government-bid-river-itself-changed-course-not-encroachment-says-ngt-black-basalt-rivers-do-not-change-course-131675458.html (12 Aug. 2023)
YAMUNA SANDRP Blog The 2023 Yamuna floods of Delhi only a trailer of bigger floods to come in future? We must recognise that flooding is a natural cycle and an essential feature of a river. If anything, this flood has once again reinforced the significance of a river floodplain for a city. When kept intact, it provides multiple benefits; if encroached and abused, the Yamuna floodplain has the potential to jeopardise India’s national capital, make large parts of it go under water. https://sandrp.in/2023/08/12/the-2023-yamuna-floods-of-delhi-only-a-trailer-of-bigger-floods-to-come-in-future/ (12 Aug. 2023)
Interview of Bhim Singh Rawat on Yamuna floods in Delhi. The monsoon and flood-related ailments are known, beyond that there has been a gradual increase in water and mosquito-borne diseases in areas under river water supply. The shallow aquifers and groundwater adjoining river have been contaminated further taking a toll on people’s health. The perennial stink makes people avoid visiting the river. The livelihoods of the key stakeholders – fishermen, boatsmen, floodplain farmers – have been among the most affected. The ‘development’ works, including riverfront makeover and beautification of parks, have only worsened the situation. https://questionofcities.org/this-years-yamuna-floods-are-a-trailer-of-bigger-floods-to-hit-delhi/ (11 August 2023)
CWC Govt makes misleading statement in Parliament about Delhi floods when it says: “Delhi faced extreme flood situation in the river Yamuna during second week of July 2023 due to very heavy rainfall in the Himalayan region upstream of Hathnikund Barrage. Very high discharge passed downstream of Hathnikund Barrage, resulting in a highest ever recorded water level of 208.66 meters at Old Railway Bridge in Delhi at 18:00 hrs on 13th July, 2023, surpassing the earlier Highest Flood Level of 207.49 m recorded in September, 1978.”
– In reality, the contribution of discharge from Hathnikund barrage was not the main factor for floods in Delhi as SANDRP has been saying. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1946495 (7 August 2023)
Haryana Following overnight rains in Himalayan catchment, discharges in Yamuna river from Hathni Kund Barrage, Yamuna Nagar have crossed 50,000 cusecs after 19 days. The last 3 discharges on 14.08.2023 have been 74,748 cusecs at 08:00 hour; 74,688 cusecs at 09:00 hour; 69,451 cusecs at 10:00 hour. The inflows at the barrage seem on decline trend. The releases are expected to reach Delhi stretch of river in next 40 hours.
Govt plans Rs 6,134-cr dam at Hathnikund The govt is now proposing a Rs 6200 Cr dam on Yamuna about 300 m upstream from the Hathnikund barrage. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/hathnikund-barrage-controversy-yamuna-fury-delhi-flood-delhi-yamuna-water-level-8881452/ (8 August 2023)
SPCB on Monday (Aug. 07) directed Gurgaon, Faridabad and Sonipat administrations to seal all illegal dyeing units. These units, according to an official, run without a “consent to operate” certificate or setting up an effluent treatment plant. Water discharged by such units, therefore, has high levels of ammonia and phosphates, which are toxic for aquatic life and pollutes groundwater and Yamuna.
-Last year, CPCB had released data of a survey that it had carried out in the state between December 2021 and March 2022. According to the survey, Panipat contributes the highest percentage of ammoniacal nitrogen load in Yamuna which is at 45.07%, followed by Gurgaon (25.25%), Faridabad (15.17%), Sonipat (10.11%) and Bhiwani (2.3%). Out of the 413 polluting industries in Haryana, 181 in Panipat, 100 are in Gurgaon, 32 in Faridabad and rest in Sonipat, Jhajjar and Rohtak. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/seal-illegal-dyeing-units-that-pollute-yamuna-3-dists-told/articleshow/102516695.cms (08 Aug. 2023)
Delhi Govt forms 3-member panel to suggest measures to prevent flood The Delhi govt has set up a three member committee constituted of former engineers. This is unlikely to help since most of the times such former engineers toe the status quoist lines. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/panel-to-draft-steps-to-prevent-flooding-in-delhi/articleshow/102626378.cms (11 August 2023)
DJB to begin dredging, desilting riverbed Delhi Jal Board is to engage a private company to dredge and desilt the Wazirabad barrage reservoir to remove about 0.387 MCM of material after manually removing the trees, branches etc that may have come with the river. The work will start after mid Sept and go on for 8 months. Last time this was done was in 2013, but then NGT had put a stay due to environmental reasons. The stay was lifted only in 2015.
– The barrage reservoir level should be 671 ft and depth of water should be 14 ft, but currently avg depth i 7 ft. After dredging the bed level is likely to be 661 ft, from possibyl 664 ft currently. The sand so removed will be sold. There will be suction pumps that will transport the slurry at the rate of 1200 cubic m per hour from the bottom of the reservoir. The revenue from sale of sand will be shared with DJB. Diwan Singh has said that the depth should not go below the natural level.
– In another report, Haryana govt has decided to suspend the Chief Engr and file charge sheet against three other officials (SE, EE and SDO) for neglect leading to jamming of the IT barrage gates leading to prolonged and extra flooding in Delhi in July 2023. The action has been taken after a three member committee investigated the matter. THe jammed gate no 28 to 32 have been submerged under 12 ft of floodwter and silt and can be opened only after this debris is removed. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/delhi-jal-board-to-start-dredging-and-desilting-of-yamuna-riverbed-to-improve-water-holding-capacity-and-quality-101691605394544. (9 August 2023)
SAND MINING
Third Pole New platform unites tech & activism to monitor sand mining Created by Kolkata’s Veditum India Foundation, India Sand Watch has been designed to become a one-stop destination for those concerned about sand mining in the country, from activists and journalists to researchers and policymakers. https://www.thethirdpole.net/en/nature/new-platform-unites-tech-and-activism-to-monitor-sand-mining-in-india/ (9 August 2023
WETLANDS, LAKES, WATER BODIES
Odisha NGT asks govt to stop ‘illegal’ construction in Tampara Lake NGT, Eastern Zone, has directed the Odisha government not to go ahead with ‘illegal’ construction in and around Tampara Lake, a designated Ramasar site and one of the largest picturesque freshwater lakes of the State. The NGT has issued the order after hearing a petition filed by Wildlife Society of Orissa, an environmental pressure group, which alleged that the ongoing large-scale permanent construction work in Tampara Lake was illegal. https://www.thehindu.com/incoming/ngt-asks-odisha-government-to-stop-illegal-construction-in-and-around-tampara-lake/article67184880.ece (12 August 2023)
WATER OPTIONS
Nagaland A water-scarce village in Nagaland farms with traditional wisdom Through the indigenous Ruza farming, locals channel rainwater using intricate forest-based networks to irrigate crops, ensuring sustenance. This method not only mitigates water scarcity but also conserves biodiversity. Recognized by the government, Ruza stands as a model for rain-reliant regions, embodying sustainable resilience. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-250ImU3QyQ (11 August 2023)
“Ruza, means ‘impounding water or run-off water pond or tank for irrigation’ in the Chokri dialect. But researchers and reports have popularised it as the Zabo system,” Tunyi told Mongabay-India. Zabo is a small pit dug within a paddy patch, ideally used for rearing fish. However, Ruza is a larger pond spreading to about 0.2 hectares, used for storing run-off water.
The forest lands are the main catchment areas. The village residents cut channels in the forests and in every possible catchment area to channelise the rainwater to the ponds. Water flowing through the several steep village roads is also impounded by constructing speed breakers or placing stones and directed to the Ruza. https://india.mongabay.com/2023/08/ruza-a-traditional-water-harvesting-system-for-the-water-scarce-mountains/ (11 Aug. 2023)
AGRICULTURE
Report Ecosystem-based approach to agriculture Ecosystem-based adaptation in agriculture helps farmers reduce their vulnerability to climate change and overcome its vagaries by harnessing biodiversity and natural resources. Small-holder farmers can increase their food security, diversify and increase their sources of income generation, take advantage of local or traditional knowledge and have low implementation and labour costs by adopting EbA in farming. Ecosystem-based adaptation is considered to be essential in achieving various sustainable development goals. https://india.mongabay.com/2023/08/ecosystem-based-adaptation-takes-nature-based-people-centric-approach-to-agriculture/ (9 August 2023)
MONSOON 2023
SANDRP Blog High Rainfall days in India’s districts in July 2023 For July 2023, an analysis in this article of the daily district wise rainfall data from India Meteorological Department (IMD) shows that there were 855 (809 in July 2022 and 717 in July 2021) instances when district rainfall of a day was above 50 mm. Such high rainfall instances included 660 (663 in July 2022) instances when rainfall was 50-100 mm, 149 (107 in July 2022) instances when it was 100-150 mm, 34 (28 in July 2022) times it was 150-200 mm and 12 (13 in July 2022) times above 200 mm. As noted in detailed article, the July 2023 rainfall all over India was 13.5% above normal. https://sandrp.in/2023/08/07/high-rainfall-days-in-indias-districts-in-july-2023/ (07 Aug. 2023)
IMD High Rainfall districts on Aug 13, 2023: 50-100 mm: E Kameng, Lower Dibang Valley (Arunachal Pradesh), Chirang, Nalbari (Assam), S Garo Hills, W Garo Hills, W Khasi Hills (Meghalaya), Senapati (Manipur), S Sikkim (Sikkim), Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kochbihar, Bankura (WB), Bilaspur, Mandi (HP), Riasi (J&K) [16]
100-150 mm: E Siang (Arunachal Pradesh), Barpeta, Dhubri (Assam), E Khasi Hills (Meghalaya), Hamirpur (HP) [5]
200-250 mm: SW Khasi Hills (Meghalaya) [1]
High Rainfall districts on Aug 12, 2023: 50-100 mm: Sontipur (Assam) E Garo Hills, E Khasi Hills (Meghalaya), Kangra, Mandi (HP) [5]
High Rainfall districts on Aug 11, 2023: 50-100 mm: Dhemaji (Assam), Gorakhpur (E UP), Dehradun (UKD), Ambala, Uamunanagar (Haryana), Hoshiarpur (Punjab), Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Mandi, Una (HP) [10]
High Rainfall districts on Aug 10, 2023: 50-100 mm: E Siang, Lower Dibang Valley (Arunachal Pradesh), Mokochung, Phek, Tuensang (Nagaland), Muzaffarpur, Purba Champaran, Saran, Vaishali (Bihar), Basti, Deoria, Maharajganj, Santkabirnagar, Shrawasti, Siddharthnagar (E UP), Udham Singh Nagar (UKD), Karaikal (Puducherry) [17]
100-150 mm: Gopalganj (Bihar), Gorakhpur (E UP), Dehradun (UKD) [3]
High Rainfall districts on Aug 9, 2023: 50-100 mm: E Siang, Tirap (Arunachal Pradesh), Sibsagar (Assam), E Khasi Hills (Meghalaya), Bishnupur (Manipur), Aizawl, Mamit (Mizoram), E Sikkim, S Sikkim (Sikkim), Dakshin Dinajpur, Darjeeling (WB), Godda (Jharkhand), Arariya, Banka, Begusarai, Jamui, Katihar, Khagaria, Lakhisarai, Medhepura, Samastipur, Sheohar, Supaul (Bihar), Bageshwar, Champawat, Nainital, Pauri Garhwal, Udhamsingh Nagar (UKD) [28]
100-150 mm: SW Khasi Hills (Meghalaya), Sahibganj (Jharkhand), Munger, Muzaffarpur, Purbi Champaran, Purnia (Bihar) [6]
150-200 mm: Bhagalpur (Bihar) [1]
High Rainfall districts on Aug 8, 2023: 50-100 mm: E Khasi Hills, SW Khasi Hills (Meghalaya), Wokha (Nagaland), Lawngtlai, Lunglei, Saiha (Mizoram), Gomati, Khowai, S Tripura, W Tripura (Tripura), Dakshin Dinajpur, Kochbihar, Malda (WB), Katihar, Supaul (Bihar), Nainital (UKD) [16]
100-150 mm: Arariya, Purnia (Bihar) [2]
High Rainfall districts on Aug 7, 2023: 50-100 mm: Papum Pare (Arunachal Pradesh), Kokrajhar (Assam), E Garo Hills, SW Garo Hills, SW Khasi Hills, W Jaintia Hills (Meghalaya), Mon, Wokha (Nagaland), Champhai, Lawngtlai, Saha, Serchhip (Mizoram), Gomati, Khowai (Tripura), Kochbihar (WB), Muzaffarpur (Bihar), Ayodhya, Barabanki, Gonda (E UP), Bilaspur (HP), Samba (J&K) [21]
100-150 mm: E Khasi Hills, South Garo Hills (Meghalaya), Sipahijala, S Tripura, W Tripura (Tripura) [5]
Source: IMD’s daily district wise rainfall page
FLOOD 2023
SANDRP Blog Himachalis blame NHPC dams for flood disaster The official report of what has transpired in Sainj Valley under Banjar subdivision of Kullu district during July 8-10, 2023 is still not in public domain, however the multiple media reports suggest it to be one of the worst flood disasters for the valley and have once again raised serious questions on the role the hydroelectric power (HEP) projects.
Local people have specifically underlined the gross negligence by National Hydro Power Corporation (NHPC) company for turning floods into a disaster. Moreover, old media reports from the area have also highlighted that it was a disaster in the making for which the state government machinery as well hydro projects and NHPC have contributed hugely. https://sandrp.in/2023/08/09/himachalis-blame-nhpc-dams-for-flood-disaster-in-sainj-valley-in-july-2023/ (9 August 2023)
Govt demands Rs 658 Cr from NHAI for damage to Larji Hydro Project In an unprecedented development, the CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has sent a Rs 658-crore damage report to the Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari seeking from National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) compensation for the devastation caused at the 126-MW Larji hydel project allegedly due to the construction of a double-decker four-lane road. https://sandrp.in/2023/08/14/himachal-demands-rs-658-cr-from-nhai-for-damage-to-large-hydro-project/ (14 Aug. 2023)
This Tribune report says the 126 MW Larji HEP in HP suffered massive damage during floods. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/power-generation-back-to-over-90-level-in-state-533109 (8 August 2023)
Govt has sent a Rs 658 Cr damage bill to NHAI for the destruction of the 126 MW Larji HEP due to the fourlane double decker road indiscriminately constructed by the NHAI violating all norms and safety. NHAI had entered 4 m into the Beas for the Road and was warned in 2019, but did not pay heed. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/4-laning-to-blame-hp-seeks-658-cr-from-nhai-for-loss-to-larji-project-533045 (8 August 2023)
जिला कुल्लू में आठ से 11 जुलाई तक हुई भारी बारिश और बाढ़ से मची तबाही के जख्म एक माह भी हरे हैं। इसके लिए हिमालय नीति अभियान ने राष्ट्रपति द्रोपदी मुर्मू का पत्र लिख इस तबाही के लिए एनएचएआई, राज्य सरकार और पनबिजली परियोजनाओं के अवैज्ञानिक निर्माण को जिम्मेदार ठहयाया है। कहा कि एनएचएआई ने किरतपुर से मनाली तक अवैध रूप से जगह-जगह मलबा डंप किया। वहीं पहाड़ियों को काटने के साथ-साथ नदियों में इतनी अधिक मात्रा में मलबा निस्तारण डंपिंग साइट के उचित प्रबंधन के बगैर किया जा रहा है। परियोजना निर्माण की गति में तेजी उचित भौगोलिक संज्ञान के बगैर अवैज्ञानिक रूप से लाई जा रही है। https://www.amarujala.com/shimla/himalaya-niti-abhiyan-write-letter-to-president-droupadi-murmu-2023-08-07 (07 Aug. 2023)
Dam Floods Himachal Pradesh Dams lack flood warning system In the backdrop of the recent floods in Himachal Pradesh, state revenue minister Jagat Singh Negi made a startling admission that most of the 135 dams in the state don’t have a flood warning system. In a letter to all 12 deputy commissioners of the state on Thursday (July 28), Negi said they should ensure that the management of these dams, including run-of-the-river projects, install the flood warning system to alert residents downstream.
-“The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) shall direct the DCs to hold a meeting with the dam authorities to set up flood warning systems. The state directorate of energy is supposed to audit the safety of dams but this has not been done in the last four years,” Negi said. SDMA director DC Rana said that dams opened their floodgates without warning when the rivers were in spate recently. This doubled the volume in rivers, particularly in the Beas and its tributaries, causing havoc along embankments, particularly in Manali.
-“The 190MW hydel project opened its flood gates in Manali, while the authorities at Larji dam did so in Mandi. People on the ground told us that the dams meant to control floods did just the opposite when their gates were opened, “Rana said. Due to the increased flow in the Beas river on July 9, Pandoh Dam, managed by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), opened its floodgates, inundating Pandoh Bazaar. The bridge built in 1923 on the river was also swept away. When contacted, BBMB officials declined comment.
-“One of the biggest reasons for not investing in safety measures is cost-cutting to make the project financially viable. An example is the Malana project in Kullu district, which had a gate malfunction recently. It’s a loss for projects but they manage to cover their costs through insurance, while people downstream suffer,” said environmentalist Manshi Asher. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/himachal-pradesh-dams-lack-flood-warning-system-puts-residents-at-risk-101690567369041.html (28 July 2023)
BBMB पर फूटा लोगों का गुस्सा क्षेत्र मेंभी इस बार बाढ़ का तांडव देखने को मिला. मिली जानकारी के अनुसार भारी बारिश के बाद पंहोड डैम और लारजी डैम में पानी भरने लगा था, जिसके बाद बड़ी मात्रा में इन दोनों डैम से पानी छोड़ा गया था. लोगों का आरोप है कि बीबीएमबी प्रबंधन ने डैम से पानी छोड़ने से पहले लोगों को इसकी सूचना नहीं दी थी और न ही पानी छोड़नेसे पहले कोई सायरन बजा है. जिसके कारण लोगों को बाढ़ का पता नहीं चला और उनका हजारों-लाखों का नुकसान हो गया. पंहोड के लोगों ने बीबीएमबी प्रबंधन के खिलाफ कड़ी कार्रवाई की मांग की है.
-डीसी मंडी अरिंदम चौधरी नेलोगों को आश्वासन दिया कि अगर बीबीएमबी प्रबंधन ने हाई कोर्ट के आदेशों की उल्लंघना की होगी तो उनके खिलाफ प्रशानस कड़ी कार्रवाई करेगा और दोषियों को किसी सूरत में बक्खा नहीं जाएगा. उन्होंने लोगों की मांग पर बीबीएमबी प्रबंधन के खिलाफ जांच के आदेश दिए. https://www.etvbharat.com/hindi/himachal-pradesh/state/mandi/mandi-flood-dc-mandi-met-flood-victim-in-pandoh-flood-victims-protest-against-bbmb-in-mandi-himachal-prdaesh/hp20230713171751510510926 (13 July 2023)
पंडोह कस्बे में पानी का बहाव अचानक बढ़ने का मुख्य कारण कुछ दूरी पर बने पंडोह बांध से अचानक पानी छोड़ा जाना था. पंडोह के सभी लोगों ने बीबीएमबी पर इस आपदा के लिए आरोप लगाया. स्थानीय निवासी और पत्रकार बालक राम कहते हैं, “बांध के कर्मचारियों के पास मौसम विभाग द्वारा दी गई सूचना उपलब्ध थी. लोगों को चेतावनी सही समय पर दी जानी चाहिए जो कि नहीं किया गया और अचानक पानी छोड़ दिया. चेतावनी सायरन बजाने का अर्थ है कि नदी के पास न जाएं. यह चेतावनी नहीं दी गई कि पानी इतना होगा कि लोगों के घरों में घुस जाए.” https://www.newslaundry.com/2023/08/08/nl-sena-himachal-flood-destruction-by-flood-in-pandoh-village (8 August 2023)
Guman Singh of Himachal Pradesh explains man-made reasons behind flood destruction in Tirthan Valley. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UYEAqnCAQI (29 July 2023)
How NHAI’s ‘all-weather’ highways eroded Gadkari said, “After a technical committee presents its report, we will dig it [the river] for 2-3 metres and use the stones and sand taken out to build such a strong wall of stone and concrete on both sides of the river that the water won’t go anywhere.”
However, experts have raised questions on the union minister’s suggestion. Geologist and professor Sundriyal says that to protect oneself from “the rage of the great Himalayan rivers like Ganga, Beas or Satluj, one must let them flow in their natural course”. He said that it is not a scientific solution and stopping the flow of large and long rivers for such solutions could cost hundreds of crores.
“A concrete or RCC wall cannot control the flow of these rivers. We must understand that these rivers are not coming into our homes. We have stopped the course of the rivers by constructing or encroaching upon them. In the days to come, extreme weather phenomena will result in the water rising suddenly in the rivers and then such solutions will prove futile.” https://www.newslaundry.com/2023/08/14/river-didnt-come-to-us-we-went-to-it-how-nhais-all-weather-highways-eroded-in-himachal ; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLBXeh1HncI (14 Aug. 2023) ‘प्रगति की नई गति या पहाड़ों की दुर्गति https://hindi.newslaundry.com/2023/08/14/how-nhais-all-weather-highways-eroded-in-himachal-pradesh (14 Aug. 2023)
Govt seeks financial to channelise Beas river The govt has proposed a Rs 1669 Cr Beas river channelisation project for funding by the central govt. CWPRS seems to have studied it. https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/2551847-hp-deputy-cm-seeks-financial-help-from-centre-for-water-supply-irrigation-projects-damaged-in-rains (8 August 2023)
Faulty design behind damage to Solan highway: Experts Faulty engineering has allegedly reduced the 39-km stretch of the Parwanoo-Solan section of the National Highway-5 to a risk zone with debris and boulders continually flowing down on to the road after every spell of rain. Its four-laning was completed in June 2021 at a cost of Rs 748 crore, although some additional work, including the construction of viaduct bridges, was still underway.Though NHAI officials have attributed the colossal damage to torrential rain and flashfloods, glaring structural defects can’t be overlooked. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/faulty-design-behind-damage-to-solan-highway-experts-534661 (13 Aug. 2023)
With no progress in the criminal complaint that he had filed with the Parwanoo police station against NHAI and its associates, Former Deputy Mayor of Shimla,Tikender Singh Panwar claims that he will demand the setting up of a Special Investigating Team (SIT) from the Himachal government to look into the matter.
-While the Solan police officials claim that the records from the NHAI have been called for , Panwar says that it is only SIT that can unbiesly look into the matter. He also claims that he would demand a Special Commission of Inquiry to be headed by a retired Supreme court judge, preferably from Himachal, to be set up by the state to look into each and every aspect of the trail of damage and destruction that the recent rain fury had left in Himachal Pradesh. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/shimla-ex-dy-mayor-to-demand-setting-up-of-sit-to-look-into-criminal-plaint-against-nhai-8879971/ (07 Aug. 2023)
Japanese experts suggest proper drainage to curb highway erosion. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/japanese-experts-suggest-proper-drainage-to-curb-highway-erosion-534318 (12 Aug. 2023)
Hoteliers blame poor road work Shimla hoteliers blame NHAI for the landslides as a fall out of NHAI violating the norms. Even the High Court has blamed NHAI for repeatedly violating norms. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/tourism-sector-hit-hard-shimla-hoteliers-blame-poor-road-work-532766 (7 August 2023)
Residents say dumping of construction debris in rivers adding to problem There are currently several ongoing projects in Himachal, including Kiratpur-Manali four-lane highway project — a major 197 km road connecting Kiratpur in Punjab to Manali in Himachal’s Kullu district. Residents claim that debris of these construction projects are dumped into rivers like Beas.
-“The Beas washed away a 100-year-old bridge. This is no ordinary incident,” Som Dutt, a resident of Nagwain in Mandi district, told ThePrint. “The river is full of debris from roads, highways and power projects. Beas has shrunk.”
-It’s a view shared by a senior government official. “Rains may have set a new record this year, but this was not the only reason behind the disaster,” a senior government official said. “The rivers are full of debris. Beas is an open dumping site for Kiratpur-Manali four-lane. This is what comes back to us.”
-Heavy rain has also severely hit power generation in the state — according to officials, rising silt levels at Larji Dam near Aut in Kullu, Nathpa Jhakri, Rampur Hydroelectric Project and Bhakra Beas Management Board’s Dehar Hydroelectric Project have caused operations to be suspended. At Pandoh dam in Manali, senior executive engineer Rajesh Handa said more than 2 lakh cusec water has been released — “the highest since 1995”. Water levels at the Bhakra dam, too, rose significantly, reaching 1,615 ft against the capacity of 1,680 ft, an official from the state’s power department said. https://theprint.in/india/as-rains-kill-20-in-himachal-residents-say-dumping-of-construction-debris-in-rivers-adding-to-problem/1663366/ (10 July 2023)
Cracks in 28 houses at 2 Kullu villages At least 28 houses in two villages in Banjar tehsil in Tirthan valley in Kullu Dist in HP have seen big cracks, some houses have even collapsed after the recent floods. The affected people have appealed for a survey and rehabilitation. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/monsoon-fury-cracks-in-28-houses-at-2-kullu-villages-532731 (7 August 2023)
हिमालयी जन की पीड़ा श्रीधर राममूर्ति -हिमालय की भू-विवर्तनिक स्थिति के बारे में सारा ज्ञान उपलब्ध है, इसके बावजूद चरम मौसमी घटनाओं के बढ़ते दुहराव, वैश्वीकरण और विकास के मौजूदा स्वरूप के मिलेजुले परिणामों पर प्रकृति को दोष देना सबसे आसान काम है। सरकार यही हल्ला कर रही है और इसके बहाने एक ऐसा नैरेटिव गढ़ रही है जिससे आपदा कार्रवाई के नाम पर खर्च को और बढ़ाया जा सके। इस बीच, वे सभी लोग जिन्हें उनके गलत कामों के लिए जवाबदेह बनाया जाना चाहिए था, अपनी अगली परियोजना और वित्तीय विकास की योजनाएं बनाने में व्यस्त हैं। भुगत कौन रहा है? आम लोग, और वे लोग ज्यादा भुगत रहे हैं जो हिमालय को सबसे ज्यादा समझते हैं यानी पहाड़ के लोग। https://www.outlookhindi.com/view/general/opinion-development-is-destruction-in-the-himalayan-region-77721 (23 July 2023)
Uttarakhand Flood damages in Kotdwar point to greater need for rainfall monitoring Bhim Singh Rawat, Associate Coordinator SANDRP, is studying these rainfall data. He says, “In some pockets of the state, there are heavy rains on the lines of cloudbursts, but in the district level records, they are being recorded as normal rains, like the August 8 rains in Dehradun,” he said.
Excessive rainfall incidents at the local level are also increasing in the state, he added. “But due to lack of adequate monitoring, these records are not being maintained. There is a need for a great deal of improvement in the rainwater measurement and documentation system in the state to understand the impact of climate change and take appropriate measures for prevention”. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/damage-due-to-heavy-rains-in-uttarakhand-s-kotdwar-point-to-greater-need-for-rainfall-and-water-level-monitoring-91136 (10 August 2023)
Rain adds to woes of Joshimath residents As rains continue to worry people across Uttarakhand, in subsidence-hit Joshimath, the heavy showers have become a double whammy for the residents as the rain has led to the cracks increasing, be it in the houses or roads. In the past two days, a family and a seer were moved from their houses to a safer location by the district administration. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/rain-adds-to-woes-of-joshimath-residents-family-seer-evacuated/articleshow/102587881.cms (10 August 2023)
Fresh cracks have appeared in Joshimath in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, months after the town made headlines for its deteriorating geological situation. At least five families from Sunil ward have been shifted to relief camps as fear spreads of further instability due to rains in the ongoing monsoon season. Meanwhile, some families have left their homes and many will be shifted to safer locations after Pagnau village, around 25 km from Joshimath town, due to a landslide, said Chamoli DDMO.
The development comes ahead of the relaunching of agitation by affected families in the town over the non-fulfilment of the 11-point demands despite an assurance from CM Pushkar Singh Dhami. The Joshimath Bachao Sangharsh Samiti (JBSS) has already announced to revive the agitation with a ‘Tiranga’ yatra on the Independence Day on August 15 and hold a sit-in every day from the next day onwards. Locals have alleged the government’s apathy towards them continued even though new areas witness cracks amid rains in the ongoing monsoon season. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/dehradun-news/fresh-cracks-in-joshimath-raise-fear-of-further-instability-as-families-shifted-to-relief-camps-in-monsoon-season-101691923998543.html (14 Aug. 2023)
हल्द्वानी में सैकड़ो लोग प्रभावित हल्द्वानी के गोला बैराज से बीती रात 55000 क्यूसिक पानी छोड़ा गया है। जिससे किच्छा क्षेत्र के पुरानी मंडी,पुलभट्टा,सिरोली और सतुईया क्षेत्र आंशिक प्रभावित हुए है। हालांकि कोई जनहानि नहीं हुई है। हल्द्वानी के उपजिलाधिकारी मनीष कुमार सिंह पूरी रात पानी से प्रभावित क्षेत्रों का दौरा करते रहे। एसएसपी पंकज भट्ट के निर्देश पर पुलिस की टीम एसडीआरएफ और अन्य टीमों के साथ रात भर जुटी रही। लोगो को सुरक्षित क्षेत्रों में जाने की मुनादी भी की गई। लेकिन इस सबके बाबजूद पानी से काफी दुकानों और घरो में रखे सामान का नुक्सान हुआ है। लोगो ने छतो पर रात गुज़ारी है। काठगोदाम क्षेत्र में भी 250 से ज़्यादा परिवारों को रेस्क्यू किया गया है।
-मुख्यत; इस समस्या के पीछे अनियोजित बसावट भी है, नदी नाले वाले क्षेत्रों में कंक्रीट के जंगल उग आये है और लोगो ने पानी निकासी वाले क्षेत्रों में कब्ज़ा कर लिया है। ऐसे में पानी की समुचित निकासी न होने पर शहर में जलभराव हो रहा है। नागरिको की मांग है शासन को इस गंभीर समस्या के समाधान के लिये कार्यवाही करनी चाहिए। https://www.indianazar.com/2023/08/09/heavy-rains-broke-out-in-haldwani-of-nainital-district-hundreds-of-people-were-affected/ (9 August 2023)
The building of a school, the Dehradun Defence College in Maldevta, Dehradun on Monday (Aug. 14) collapsed amid incessant rainfall. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/uttarakhand-rain-dehradun-defence-college-building-collapses-101691983045129.html (14 Aug. 2023)
10 years of Kedarnath Disaster लेकिन अब भी 3183 लोग लापता हैं, जिनका कोई सुराग नहीं लग पाया है। शासन स्तर पर बीते वर्षों तक इन लोगों की खोजबीन के लिए रेस्क्यू अभियान चलाए गए। इस दौरान 703 कंकाल मिले। वहीं, प्रभावित गांवों की सुरक्षा व विस्थापन को लेकर भी कोई योजना धरातल पर नहीं उतर पाई है। (16 June 2023) https://www.amarujala.com/dehradun/kedarnath-disaster-2013-10-years-3183-missing-people-were-not-found-even-after-10-years-2023-06-16 (16 June 2023)
Punjab The BBMB authorities on Sunday (Aug 13 2023) opened up four floodgates of Bhakra Dam by two feet. The authorities said that the floodgates have been opened as inflows in dam remained high and there were projections of more rains in the coming days. The Bhakra Dam level was at 1671 feet. The inflows in the dam were about 76549 cusecs where as the outflows were 41816 cusecs. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/floodgates-of-bhakra-dam-opened-to-inspect-their-operational-efficacy-534802 (13 Aug. 2023)
Hardpan in paddy fields hindering water seepage Experts said that the paddy puddling method employed in Punjab’s agricultural practices has inadvertently led to the formation of an impenetrable hardpan, aggravating the post-flood situation in the region. The paddy puddling method, commonly practised to prepare fields for rice cultivation, involves churning the soil with standing water before transplanting rice seedlings and subsequent flood irrigation in the rice fields for weeks together. This process creates a dense and compacted layer beneath the surface, hindering the way of water absorption by the land by blocking the recharging capacity of the soil.
-“Already the paddy was transplanted in the fields, and flood irrigation was done when floods came, and it is now preventing water from seeping into the earth. Drainage is the only solution in such conditions,” Dr Amrik Singh, District Training Officer, Punjab Agriculture Department, Gurdaspur, said, adding that puddling led to the formation of a hardpan.
-“As Punjab faced heavy monsoon rains and subsequent floods on July 9, stagnant water in the fields even after a month proved the fact that there is a hardened soil crust which is a major obstacle in the way of water seepage,” Daler Singh, a retired senior Agriculture officer and a rice expert, said, adding that puddling is responsible for the formation of hardpan in the fields along with the destruction of soil microbiota, increasing humidity in the atmosphere, and pressure on water aquifers. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/punjab-floods-water-seepage-waterlogging-jalandhar-paddy-8885142/ (10 August 2023)
People of Punjab plugged at least five breaches in the Sutlej river embankment during recent floods. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/no-help-volunteers-plug-away-at-breach-sites-532435 (06 Aug. 2023)
धुस्सी बांध को माइनिंग से खतरा रेत के वैध /अवैध खनन के दौरान बरती जा रही लापरवाही जालंधर के लिए बड़ी चिंता है। सतलुज के पानी को धुस्सी बांध से रोका गया है। रेत के खनन करने वाले चोरी की रेत निकालने के लिए इस बांध के पास खड्डे कर देते हैं। इससे पानी का धक्का बांध को लगता है, दरिया अपना बहाव भी बांध की तरफ कर लेता है। इस बांध पर रेत से भरे टिप्पर चलते हैं, जिससे यह कमजोर हो रहा है। डीसी विशेष सारंगल ने सतलुज दरिया के हालात देखने के बाद गांव खाली करने का आदेश दिया है। अगस्त 2019 में फिल्लौर में सबसे पहले बाढ़ आई थी। उस समय गांवों के लोगों ने कहा था कि अवैध खनन करने वालों ने बांध को कमजोर कर दिया है। https://www.bhaskar.com/local/punjab/jalandhar/news/dhussi-dam-threatened-by-mining-order-to-evacuate-50-villages-131509024.html (9 July 2023)
Bihar Govt falsifying flood victims’ house-loss claims despite credible records कोसी में कहावत है कि दुर्गा पूजा का ढोल सुनकर कोसी भाग जाती है। लेकिन 2021 में ऐसा नहीं हुआ था। लोगों का धान कटकर खेतों में बोझा बनकर पड़ा था। अचानक आई बाढ़ में इलाके के धान पर पाँक मिट्टी चढ़ा दी थी। महीनों की मेहनत आँख के आगे बर्बाद हो गई थी।
इस परिस्थिति में लोगों ने कोशी नवनिर्माण मंच से अपनी बात कही और संगठन ने क्षेत्र में जाकर लोगों की स्थिति का आकलन किया। विनम्रता के साथ जिलाधिकारी महोदय को ज्ञापन दिया। उस समय पंचायती चुनाव सर पर थे तो प्रसाशन की मजबूरी को समझते हुए संगठन ने समय भी दिया। चुनाव के बाद जिलाधिकारी का तबादला हो गया। नये जिलाधिकारी को फिर से स्थिति की जानकारी दी गई। उन्होंने शुरू से ही असहयोग किया। लोगों ने मजबूरन समाहरनालय के सामने शांतिपूर्ण अनिश्चितकालीन सत्याग्रह किया। आपदा प्रबंधन के पदाधिकारी आकर लोगो से मिले और कार्यवाही करने का वादा किया।
पीछे वो मुकर गए। संगठन ने बार बार उन्हे अपना वादा याद दिलाया। लेकिन वो नहीं माने। पीछे ये हाल कर दिया की 2021 में सुपौल में बाढ़ आई ही नहीं थी। मजबूर होकर संगठन को कोर्ट का दरवाजा खटखटाना पड़ा और एक जनहित याचिका दायर की गई। वहाँ सपथ लेकर आपदा पदाधिकारी ने झूठ बोला। कोर्ट से संगठन आपदा प्रबधान विभाग गया और वहाँ अपनी बात साक्ष्य के साथ रखी जिसमे लोगों की आपबीती, कागजात सब शामिल थे। लेकिन फिर भी विभाग नहीं माना। संगठन लगातार सबूत इकट्ठा करता रहा और फाइनली उनको वो डाक्यमेन्ट मिले जिसमे जिलाधिकारी ने 1220 घर के काटने के बाद राहत का पैसा सरकार से मांग था। 2021 की अंतिम बाढ़ रिपोर्ट में भी ये बात स्वीकार की गई की 1220 घर सुपौल में बाढ़ में कटे थे। आज संगठन फिर से एक रिट याचिका दायर कर रहा है।
आज हिंदुस्तान टाइम्स ने इस विषय पर एक रिपोर्ट छपी है। उम्मेद है सरकार अब शर्म करेगी और अपने अधिकारियों से पूछेगी की ऐसा झूठ उन्होंने क्यूँ बोला। सूबे के मुख्यमंत्री जगह जगह कहते है की राज्य के कोश पर पहला अधिकार आपदा पीड़ित लोगों का है। उनको सोचना चाहिए की क्या अधिकार को हासिल करने के लिए इस तरह भीख मांगी जाती है, ऐसे भटकना पड़ता है। उनको सोचना चाहिए की कोसी जैसे बीहड़ में काम करने वाला संगठन इतने संघर्ष के लिए संसाधन कैसे जुटाता है। कब तक कोशी के लोगों को ठगा जाएगा। https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/patna-news/residents-of-flood-affected-villages-in-bihar-seek-elusive-compensation-as-officials-deny-existence-of-2021-floods-101691817366734.html (12 August 2023)
Hundreds of families displaced after rivers break banks The district administrations in East and West Champaran appealed to those living in low-lying areas near Gandak to move to safer places following the heavy water discharge from the Valmikinagar barrage. Similarly, local administration alerted people of the threat of increasing water discharge from the Koshi barrage.
-Though farmers expected rains to bring some respite from the prolonged dry spell in the ongoing monsoon, heavy rains proved otherwise. Overflowing rivers and submerged standing paddy and maize fields shattered their hopes of a decent yield. In Supaul, dozens of villages inside Koshi embankments are marooned; floodwater cut them off and entered houses. “Flood is here again, it is our fate to fight for survival during and after monsoon. Koshi is creating trouble as usual for those living inside the embankments,” said Jagdish Yadav, a resident of an impacted village. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/natural-disasters/hundreds-of-families-displaced-in-north-bihar-as-swollen-rivers-break-their-banks-91155 (11 August 2023)
URBAN FLOOD
SINGAPORE Sanjay Baru: However, having travelled to that country in the monsoon month of August 2008, what impressed me most on arrival was the very effective drainage system that had been built with an important strategic consideration in mind. Singapore is an island with very little domestic supply of potable water. It is dependent on neighbouring Malaysia for importing some of its requirements. In order to enhance national self-sufficiency in the availability of drinking water the Singapore government created an island-wide network of rainwater harvesting systems with a drainage plan that ensured that as little as possible of rainwater would be lost to the ocean around and as much as possible would be collected and used. https://civilsocietyonline.com/column/delhi-darbar/down-the-drain/
HFL BREACH
Uttarakhand Water level of Alaknanda river just upstream of Devprayag shot up overnight, since 12 midnight to 269.97 m, massive 2.49 m above the earlier Highest Flood level of 267.48 m. A rise of about 10.5 m in 9 hours from midnight. River Song at Satyanarayan site in Dehradun have touched their previous highest flood levels on 14.08.2023.
Uttar Pradesh Ganga river at Kachhla Bridge level forecast site in Budaun district and Bagmati river at Benibad level forecast site in Muzaffarpur district, Bihar have been flowing in severe flood situation and close to their HFLs.
Assam River Dikhow at Sivasagar site is flowing in extreme flood situation second time in this season. The river had breached old HFL 94.24 meter dated 22.06.2020 and set 94.27 meter as new HFL on 13.07.2023.
Madhya Pradesh River Vesli at Gata site in lower Yamuna basin in Bhind district has breached old HFL 139.54 meter dated 13.10.2022 and set 139.59 meter as new HFL on 09.08.2023. The previous HFL for the site has been 138.84 meter dated 27.09.2019.
CLOUD BURSTS
Himachal Pradesh 5 feared buried Paonta Sahib Five people were reported missing after a cloudburst at Dadiyat village near Aauli of Paonta Sahib in Sirmaur district on Wednesday (Aug. 09) night. Apprehension of more people missing is being expressed by the authorities. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/5-missing-after-cloud-bursts-in-himachal-pradeshs-paonta-sahib-533868 (10 August 2023)
चुनाहन में बादल फटने से तबाही जिला मंडी के नाचन क्षेत्र के चुनाहन में बादल फटने से तबाही हुई है। बादल फटने के बाद बड़ी मात्रा में पानी व मलबा रिहायशी क्षेत्रों में आ गया। घरों के आसपास पार्क गाड़ियां मलबे के साथ पानी में बह गईं। कई घरों के आंगन बह गए हैं। जिससे मकानों को खतरा पैदा हो गया है। वहीं, खेत मक्की-धान की फसलों सहित बह गए हैं।
-उधर, बल्ह के नागचला से डडोर तक फोरलेन व आसपास के क्षेत्र में जलभराव हो गया है। वहीं, धर्मपुर में सोन खड्ड ने तबाही मचाई है। मलबा व पानी दुकानों-घरों में घुस गया है। बिजली आपूर्ति व संचार सेवाएं ठप हो गई हैं। धर्मपुर और सरकाघाट का अन्य जिला से संपर्क कटा हुआ है। निर्माणाधीन एनएच जालंधर-मंडी वाया कोटली कई स्थानों पर पूरी तरह से बंद हो गया है। https://www.amarujala.com/shimla/devastation-due-to-cloudburst-in-chunahan-vehicles-swept-away-with-debris-danger-to-many-houses-2023-08-13 (13 August 2023)
बारिश से तबाही, कई लोगों की मौत हिमाचल प्रदेश में जगह-जगह बादल फटने व भूस्खलन से 27 से अधिक लोगों की मौत की पुष्टि हुई है। जबकि करीब 40 लोगों के लापता होने की आशंका है। राज्य आपातकालीन परिचालन केंद्र के अनुसार राज्य में 751 सड़कें बंद हैं। इसके अतिरिक्त 4697 बिजली ट्रांसफार्मर व 902 जलापूर्ति योजनाएं बंद हो गई हैं।
राज्य में इस मानसून सीजन के दौरान 24 जून से 13 अगस्त तक 257 लोगों की मौत हो चुकी है। 290 घायल हुए हैं। अब तक 1376 घर ढह गए हैं। 7935 घरों को नुकसान पहुंचा है। 270 दुकानों व 2727 गोशालाओं को भी नुकसान हुआ है। मानसून में अभी तक 7020.28 करोड़ रुपये से अधिक का नुकसान हो चुका है। राज्य में भूस्खलन की 90 और अचानक बाढ़ की 90 घटनाएं सामने आ चुकी हैं।
सोमवार (Aug. 14) को बारिश के कहर के बीच शिमला में दो भूस्खलन और सोलन में बादल फटने से 16 से अधिक लोगों की मौत हो गई। समरहिल इलाके में एक शिव मंदिर ढह गया था और फागली इलाके में एक अन्य जगह जहां कई घर मिट्टी और कीचड़ के नीचे दब गए। अधिकारियों के मुताबिक कई और लोगों के फंसे होने की आशंका है।
सोलन जिले में बादल फटने से एक ही परिवार के सात सदस्यों की मौत हो गई है। रविवार (Aug. 13) रात बादल फटने से सोलन में दो घर बह गए। सूचना के अनुसार गांव जडौण डाकघर में बादल फटने की घटना हुई। दो मकान और एक गोशाला बह गई। जडौण गांव में रती राम और इसके बेटे हरनाम के दो मकान भूस्खलन के कारण क्षतिग्रस्त हो गए। इसमें सात लोगों की मौत हो चुकी है।
मंडी की मझबाड़ पंचायत में बादल फटा है। दो लोग मलबे में दब गए हैं, जबकि कुछ लापता हैं। जिनकी तलाश जारी है। जिले के द्रंग विधानसभा क्षेत्र के इलाका उत्तरशाल की ग्राम पंचायत सेगली के बंबोला में मलबा गिरने से एक रिहायशी मकान चपेट में आ गया। इस दर्दनाक हादसे में दो लोगों की मौके पर मौत हो गई है।, जबकि पांच लोग अभी भी मलबे के नीचे दबे हुए बताए जा रहे हैं ।
थुरल के साथ लगती पंचायत बलोह में बादल फटने से चौधरी बस्ती में एक मकान गिर गया और कई मकान क्षतिग्रस्त हो गए हैं। मकान में रह रहे परिवार के चार सदस्यों को बड़ी मुश्किल से बाहर निकाल कर थुरल के विश्राम गृह में ठहराया गया है। बादल फटने से पहाड़ी का मलबा पालमपुर-सुजानपुर राजमार्ग पर आ गया है जिससे आने जाने वाले राहगीरों को मुश्किलों का सामना करना पड़ रहा है।
शिमला के घणाहट्टी में एनएच को खतरा पैदा हो गया है। पहाड़ी का 300 मीटर हिस्सा लगातार धंस रहा है। नालहट्टी सड़क बंद कर दी है। बनुटी में मकान गिरने की कगार पर है। एचपीयू शिमला के पुस्तकालय, फिजिक्स विभाग को भारी भूस्खलन से खतरा हो गया है। समरहिल के पास भूस्खलन के चलते विश्व धरोहर कालका-शिमला रेल मार्ग बुरी तरह क्षतिग्रस्त हो गया है। रेल पटरी हवा में लटक गई है। 120 साल पुराना ऐतिहासिक कालका-शिमला रेलवे मार्ग पर ट्रेनों की आवाजाही ठप हो गई हैं। यह पहली बार है जब कालका-शिमला ट्रैक को इतना बड़ा नुकसान हुआ है।
चंबा के भटियात विधानसभा क्षेत्र की रायपुर पंचायत में एक व्यक्ति मलबे में दब गया है। वहीं, ग्राम पंचायत खरगट और टिकरी पंचायतों के मध्य में स्थित खखरून गांव में गोशाला में बंधी गाय और सड़क के साथ खड़ी की बोलेरो गाड़ी बह गई है। इसके अलावा पंचायत में पिकअप वाहन, स्कूटी, बाइक मलबे में दब गई है।
बिलासपुर जिले में घुमारवीं-सरकाघाट सड़क पन्याला के समीप बंद हो गई। भारी भूस्खलन के चलते सड़क पर आवाजाही बहाल करना चुनौती बना हुआ है। शिमला के खलीनी में बाईपास पर भूस्खलन हुआ है। पेड़ गिरने से गाड़ियों को भी क्षति पहुंची है। घुमारवीं के तियूनखास तियूड़ी गांव में रात को भूस्खलन हो गया। इसको लेकर लगभग 11 परिवारों के घर खाली करवाए गए हैं। धर्मशाला-शिमला सड़क अभी तक दगसेच के पास बंद है। घुमारवीं विधानसभा के तलवाड़ा के ढटोह गांव में बड़ा भूस्खलन हुआ है।
जिला कुल्लू में 12 घंटों से भारी बारिश हो रही है। जगह-जगह भूस्खलन होने से जनजीवन अस्त-व्यस्त हो गया है। एनएच 305 में कई जगहों पर भूस्खलन और पेड़ गिरे हैं। संजौली-लक्कड़ बाजार सड़क मार्ग पर भी भूस्खलन हुआ है। चंडीगढ़-मनाली पुराना एनएच बिनौला के पास बंद हो गया है। एनएच-305 पर कई जगहों पर भूस्खलन और पेड़ गिरे हैं। https://www.amarujala.com/photo-gallery/shimla/himachal-rains-roads-and-power-transformers-stalled-due-to-cloudburst-landslides-many-people-died-2023-08-14 (14 Aug. 2023)
Jammu & Kashmir Protecting Amarnath Yatra from extreme weather The escalating occurrence of severe weather incidents presents formidable challenges to this sacred journey. Regrettably, in 2015, the Amarnath Yatra witnessed the loss of three lives due to a sudden cloudburst at the Baltal base camp. Similarly, the previous year saw the tragic consequences of another cloudburst near the Amarnath Holy Cave, leading to the unfortunate demise of at least 15 individuals. While these incidents were deeply saddening, people raised concerns about the performance of the IMD, alleging lapses in weather prediction and timely cautionary measures. https://kashmirobserver.net/2023/08/09/imds-race-against-time-protecting-amarnath-yatra-from-escalating-extreme-weather/ (9 August 2023)
LANDSLIDES
Uttarakhand 5 Kedarnath pilgrims killed At least five pilgrims, including three from Gujarat, were killed after a car in which they were travelling to Kedarnath was crushed under debris from a landslide in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district on Thursday (Aug. 10) night, news agency PTI reported.
-The landslide occurred at Tarsali near Phata on the Guptkashi-Gaurikund highway, washing away a 60-metre stretch of the road. The devotees were travelling to the holy shrine of Kedarnath in a car when it was hit by a mass of stones and boulders falling from the mountain between Phata and Sonprayag.
-According to data from the State Emergency Operation Center, 58 people have been killed and 37 people have been injured so far in various incidents during this monsoon while 19 others are missing. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/five-kedarnath-pilgrims-killed-as-car-hit-by-landslide-debris-in-uttarakhand-101691808644450.html (12 August 2023)
2 children killed near Kedarnath base camp Two siblings were killed and a third got injured when the hut they were sleeping in was hit by a landslide in the early hours of Wednesday (Aug. 09) amid incessant rains in Gaurikund, the base camp of Kedarnath Yatra. This was the second landslide in Gaurikund in five days.
-The shack near the helipad in Gaurikund village was hit by a landslide from the top of the hill, burying four of a family in debris, Rudraprayag District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar said.The spot in Gaurikund village is just half a kilometer away from the place where three persons were killed and 20 others went missing in a landslide that occurred on August 4. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/gaurikund-landslide-two-children-killed-after-landslide-bury-hut-near-kedarnath-yatra-base-camp-4281817 (9 August 2023)
DISASTERS
House Panel Prepare plan to check Himalayas’ ecological destruction The Union environment ministry should prepare a practical and implementable action plan with clear timelines to put a check on ecologically destructive activities in the Himalayan region, the parliamentary standing committee on science and technology, environment, forests and climate change has recommended in its report tables in Rajyasabha on Aug 10 2023. The committee recommended that a comprehensive action plan be prepared for the Himalayan region covering expected disaster events and natural disasters like in Kedarnath and Joshimath.
“This has led to over-exploitation of natural resources and illegal construction of home stays, guest houses, resorts, hotels, restaurants and other encroachments,” the report said. “In view of the imminent threat to ecological balance caused by these activities, it is pertinent that a thorough assessment of illegal structures be undertaken in co-ordination with local authorities and strict actions be initiated at the earliest against such illegal constructions, lest it results into a manmade crisis of huge proportions.” https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/union-ministry-urged-to-take-action-on-destructive-activities-in-himalayas-prepare-disaster-action-plan-101691694218140-amp.html (11 August 2023)
ENVIRONMENT GOVERNANCE
The Himalayan Advocacy Centre (Dharmashala) has recently published a handbook on all disposed orders of the National Green Tribunal from June, 2021 to June, 2023.
MoEF Over 3 lakh hectares of forest land diverted under FCA in 15 years -The data showed that the major purposes for diversion include mining (58,282 hectares), road construction (45,326 hectares), irrigation (36,620 hectares), transmission lines (26,124 hectares), defence (24,337 hectares), hydel projects (13,136 hectares), railways (9,307 hectares), thermal power (4,101 hectares) and wind power infrastructure (2,181 hectares). https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/over-3-lakh-hectares-of-forest-land-diverted-under-forest-conservation-act-in-15-years-govt/articleshow/102507083.cms (07 Aug. 2023)
CLIMATE CHANGE
Study Glacier dynamics assessment in Eastern Dhauliganga basin The glacier extent and length change were monitored for 25 glaciers in the basin, of which 13 are clean ice and 12 are debris-covered glaciers. During the time period from 1994 to 2018, higher area loss was observed for clean ice glaciers (±20.6%) compared with debris-covered glaciers (±10.9%). The clean-ice glaciers retreated at a rate of 4.8–33.7 m/year, whereas debris-covered glaciers retreated at a rate of 2.9–28.8 m/year during 1994–2018. https://rgs-ibg.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/geoj.12535 (3 August 2023)
SOUTH ASIA
Pakistan Neelum-Jhelum project resumes power generation after year-long hiatus After remaining inoperative for more than a year, the 969 MW Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project has resumed power generation following the restoration of its tail race tunnel, Wapda said on Wednesday (Aug 9, 2023). https://www.dawn.com/news/1769317 (10 August 2023)
CHINA
Beijing Floods For days, the rain came down in sheets, pounding Beijing and areas around it in what the government said was the heaviest deluge China’s capital had seen since record keeping began 140 years ago. When the extreme downpour finally stopped on Tuesday (Aug 1, 2023), most of Beijing had been spared the worst — but partly because officials made sure the floodwaters went elsewhere. Officials in Hebei Province, which borders Beijing, had opened flood gates and spillways in seven low-lying flood control zones to prevent rivers and reservoirs from overflowing in Beijing and the region’s other metropolis, Tianjin, state media said. The Communist Party leader of Hebei, Ni Yuefeng, said he ordered the “activation of flood storage and diversion areas in an orderly manner, so as to reduce the pressure on Beijing’s flood control and resolutely build a ‘moat’ for the capital.”
– China is not the only country that sometimes opens spillways to divert floodwaters from big cities to areas with fewer residents — an emergency, last-resort measure aimed at reducing destruction and loss of life. The Morganza Floodway in central Louisiana, last opened in 2011, has 125 huge gates that can open to drain floodwaters coming down the Mississippi River away from New Orleans and into the sparsely populated, swampy Atchafalaya Basin. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/04/world/asia/china-flood-beijing-rain.html (04 Aug. 2023)
THE REST OF THE WORLD
Norway Dam bursts A dam in southern Norway has partially burst following days of heavy rain that triggered landslides and flooding in the mountainous region, and forced downstream communities to evacuate. Authorities initially considered blowing up part of the dam at the Braskereidfoss hydro-electric power plant on the Glåma, Norway’s longest and most voluminous river. The idea was to prevent communities downstream from being inundated by using a limited, controlled blast to release pressure on the dam. But that proposal was scrapped after water later broke through the structure, police spokesman Fredrik Thomson said.
– The dam’s generators stopped working early on Wednesday after a power grid failure, plant operator Hafslund Eco said in a statement.
An automatic system that should have opened the floodgates to release water failed. Rapidly rising water then spilled over the dam and into the power station itself, which caused major damage, officials said. Huge volumes of water were pouring over the western parts of the dam, Mr Thomson said. The water ripped apart a two-lane road and fences that ran across the top of the dam.
– Two hydrologists said the conflict between old dams and heavier amounts of rain is becoming a more frequent problem. University of Virginia hydrologist Venkat Lakshmi said his research shows that older dams are unprepared to handle rainfall that comes in heavier, harder-to-manage bursts. Many of those dams were designed to withstand floods that were supposed to happen only once a century, but those events are now happening much more often, he said. “This type of conflict between climate and our hydrological infrastructure, such as dams, is going to become more common,” said UCLA hydrologist Park Williams. As rainfall intensifies, reservoirs and dams “will be increasingly out of tune with the changing climate.” https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-10/dam-bursts-in-norway-after-days-of-heavy-rain-and-flooding/102714770 (10 August 2023)
Thousands evacuated A dam on a Norwegian river partially collapsed Wednesday (Aug 9 2023), sending water gushing through a gaping hole in the structure after days of heavy flooding. The Braskereidfoss power dam on the Glomma River, Norway’s biggest waterway, had been unable to open its hatches after its control room flooded. Police had earlier considered blowing one of the 45-year-old dam’s hatches to help relieve the water pressure but decided against it as the explosion would have been difficult to control. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4HZz8OQCVU (9 August 2023)
Report Can extreme flooding be prevented? Planners and engineers will have to find ways to work with the natural world, rather than trying to control it. Wherever possible waterways should be allowed to flow as nature intended, and not be altered or straightened. Doing so concentrates and further accelerates the volumes of water during a flood event. Rather than confining rivers, levees should be moved back to make space for flood plains — wide open green spaces that can serve as overflow reservoirs during floods. Such spaces were expanded along the Elbe River in eastern Germany, following several destructive flooding events in the early 2000s. Another approach is to make urban areas more permeable, so that water is more easily absorbed over a wider area and not concentrated in specific spots.
– The German town of Leichlingen, southeast of Düsseldorf, has been hit by severe flooding several times in recent years. To ease the stress on their water management, they have been experimenting with a new planning model known as a “sponge city.” The idea is to channel rainwater from roofs, squares and streets into grass-covered ditches at the side of the road. Excess water would then be allowed to drain away naturally and add to the local groundwater, reducing the load on water management infrastructure. Backup cisterns would also be installed to collect overflow and could be used to water the city’s green spaces. The sponge city concept comes from China, where a number of cities like Qian’an and Xingtai in the north of the country, are experimenting with the idea. Still, in spite of the sponge infrastructure, intense rainfall triggered flash flooding in Xingtai, killing five people, reported local media last week. https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/can-extreme-flooding-be-prevented-explained-8881804/ (8 August 2023)
Compiled by SANDRP (ht.sandrp@gmail.com)
Also see: DRP News Bulletin 07 Aug. 2023 & DRP News Bulletin 31 July 2023
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SANDRP 