(Feature Image: Location of washed away Teesta Urja dam. Source: Ka Shlem)

Is the Dam Safety Panel (DSP) report dated Nov 1 2023 on Medigadda barrage on Gadavari in Telangana, a self-indictment of the Dam Safety Mechanism in India?

The report concludes: “it is construed that the I&CAD (Irrigation and Command Area Development) Dept. has nothing to submit about instrumentation data, pre-monsoon &post monsoon inspection reports, completion reports, quality control reports, condition of gates and many other inputs sought in the list therein”.

How and why did the NDSA (National Dam Safety Authority) allow such a state of affairs to continue for such an important dam that has huge implications for life and economy as the report itself says? What steps did the NDSA take before this disaster struck to ensure that all these basic dam safety measures were indeed in place and functioning? What is NDSA doing to ensure that all such basic steps and measures are in place at all the large dams in India? What did NDSA do to ensure that this dam, important from the point of view of life and economy, was also listed in CWC’s National Register of Large Dams? What has NDSA done to ensure that CWC’s National Register is indeed updated every year with inclusion of all large dams of India (Large dam as per its definition) and all their salient features? What has NDSA done to ensure that all Dam Safety information is in public domain promptly?

The answer, unfortunately, seems like: NDSA has done nothing on any of these fronts. That way, the Medigadda Dam Safety Report is a self-indictment of India’s Dam Safety Mechanism.

Why there is no Dam Safety Panel on other Dam Disasters this year? It is interesting to see the alacrity shown by the Union Govt on this dam disaster. The disaster came to light on Oct 21, 2023. The very next day, on Oct 22, 2023, Union Ministry of Jal Shakti issues a letter constituting a Dam Safety Panel of six members headed by Shri Anil Jain, Chairman of NDSA and including Shri S K Sharma, R Thangamani, Rahul K Singh, Devendra Rao and Praveen Annepu, all part of CWC (Central Water Commission). This underlines the need for having the whole dam safety work entrusted to an independent organisation and not CWC as CWC suffers from several issues of conflict of interest.

On Oct 23, 2023, the DSP panel reaches Telangana, completes the visit on Oct 27, 2023. Issues deadline of Oct 29 2023 to provide necessary documents and brings out the report on Nov 1 2023. The report is already getting circulated in media on Nov 3 2023.

Immediately after the report was out, Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat tweeted: “Exposed! K Chandrashekar Rao led Telangana govt’s corruption stands hopelessly exposed. It is appalling to know that the greed & corruption of the BRS govt has led to risking the lives of lakhs of people & loss of crores of rupees of taxpayers’ money”.

However, even the first movement is not seen even a month after in case of bigger dam safety disasters in Sikkim on Oct 3-4 2023 involving not only washing away of 1200 MW Teesta 3 dam, but also severely damaging NHPC’s operating Teesta 5 dam, and under construction Teesta 6 dam and also the privately owned Dikchu Hydropower project and a small hydro project upstream of Chungthang.

Similarly there is massive landslide at India’s largest capacity, 2000 MW Lower Subansiri Hydropower Project on Assam Arunachal Pradesh border on Oct 27 2023, where the full top brass of NHPC starting from Chairman and Managing Director downwards, and also senior officials of the Central Electricity Authority, Geological Society of India and also the contractor are camping. But till date there is no movement from NDSA or Union Jal Shakti Ministry to set up a DSP in this case.

There were similar dam disasters in Himachal Pradesh during the 2023 SW Monsoon involving Larji Hydropower project, the Malana II Hydropower project and also wrong operation of Bhakra, Pong, Pindar and other dams, but there is no Dam Safety Panel in place. In Gujarat, Sardar Sarovar Dam on Narmada caused avoidable flood disaster on Sept 16-18 2023[vi], but there is again no Dam Safety Panel.

So while the prompt action about the Medigadda Dam Disaster is certainly welcome, we hope there is greater consistency in functioning of the NDSA, CWC and Jal Shakti Ministry so that criticism of use of the Dam Safety for political ends do not get any justification. The whole episode clearly underlines the need to entrust the Dam Safety work to an independent agency and not CWC.

HYDRO POWER PROJECTS

West Bengal GTA passes resolution against new hydro projects Welcome, wise move, hope they do not buckle under pressure. On Nov 1, 2023, the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration resolved not to allow any new hydro project in GTA area.

-The decision was taken following the Oct. 03-04 GLOF devastation at South Lonark Lake. Even though the GTA Sabha has adopted a resolution, many in the hills wondered if the GTA could stop a policy decision taken by the state government.

-Opposition to setting up hydel projects in Darjeeling hills has been brewing ever since thousands had to abandon their houses due to soil subsidence at Joshimath in Uttarakhand early this year. Locals in Bijanbari had earlier stopped the construction of notches and the installation of gauges for recording the discharge of water to check the feasibility of setting up a 6MW project at Balawas and a 12MW project at Chotta Rangit in the area.

-As of now, Bengal has 20 installed hydropower projects — of which 15 are in the Darjeeling hills, which has a combined capacity to generate 533 MW of electricity. West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Corporation Limited (WBSEDCL) has identified a potential to generate another 995MW of hydropower in the state. https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/gorkhaland-territorial-administration-adopts-resolution-to-bar-construction-of-hydel-projects-in-darjeeling/cid/1977025   (02 Nov. 2023)

Sikkim NO MORE LARGE DAMS IN SIKKIM: SIBLAC CONVENTION Four key resolutions were adopted during the BL convention organised by Sikkim Bhutia Lepcha Apex Committee (SIBLAC) on Sunday (Nov. 05) at Chintan Bhawan here. “No more large dams in Sikkim and any other projects which are ecologically harmful and detrimental to the socio economic aspect of the Sikkimese people,” it was unanimously resolved in the convention.

The convention also resolved to submit a representation to the Chief Justice of Sikkim High Court “appealing to take up suo-moto action initiating CBI investigation into the construction of the Sikkim Teesta Urja hydel project and the failure of dam due to GLOF”.

Through another resolution, the SIBLAC convention also sought rehabilitation and fair compensation for the flood victims, and a master plan for development of all the affected areas of North Sikkim and its implementation within a specific period. The ACT general secretary appealed the State government to scrap the 520 Mw Teesta-IV hydel project proposed by the NHPC in Dzongu. At the convention, it was also resolved to endorse all the resolutions adopted on December 11, 2022. https://sikkimexpress.com/news-details/no-more-large-dams-in-sikkim-siblac-convention  (06 Nov. 2023)

Teesta disaster: Need for accountability in development finance The lack of accountability and the deliberate indifference to the social and environmental impact of these massive hydroelectric projects emphasise the insensitivity of FIs that remain in the shadows in the aftermath of such disasters involving mega infrastructure projects. Amitanshu Verma, Nancy Pathak; CFA). https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/teesta-disaster-and-the-need-for-accountability-in-development-finance-2747296  (30 Oct. 2023)

Subansiri Project “Will review SLHEP if…:Akhil “We will review the commissioning of Subansiri Lower Hydro Electric Project (SLHP) if the INDIA Bloc comes to the power in 2024 Lok Sabha elections,” United Opposition Forum (UOF) chief spokesperson and MLA Akhil Gogoi said here on Wednesday. The UOF has expressed grave concern over the “frequent mishaps” at the site of NHPC’s under-construction 2000-MW Lower Subansiri hydro-electric project on the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border and the possible adverse impact of the mega dam in the downstream areas of Assam. https://nenow.in/top-news/assam-will-review-slhep-if-india-bloc-comes-to-power-in-2024-says-akhil.html  (01 Nov. 2023)

Assam Rajya Sabha MP Ajeet Bhuyan, referring to the October 27 landslide said in his letter to Prime Minister that the incident is only a warning, which can’t be ignored: “The hilly soil of Arunachal is fragile. Secondly, the dam site is earthquake-prone. Thirdly, the base of the dam was reduced by 09 metres without any public explanation. These are enough indications for a major disaster in the coming days”. On Oct 31 2023, he appealed to PM to take swift measures and fix accountability. He reminded PM that Mr Modi himself had said in 2014 no big dams in North East if people do not want. He also reminded that current Defense Minister Rajnath Singh had also said they will scrap the project. Mr Bhuyan said that he apprehended much bigger disaster than recent Sikkim Disaster if this projects goes ahead. https://www.etvbharat.com/english/state/assam/assam-mp-flags-concern-over-2000-mw-subansiri-lower-hydro-power-project-writes-to-pm-modi/na20231031201156213213326  (31 Oct. 2023) 

A disaster in the making The Lower Subansiri Hydel Power Project has recently highlighted the potential environmental consequences it may bring to the region. As geologists had long warned, the hills surrounding the project site are showing signs of strain under the immense weight of the colossal dam. Locals now fear that the river’s course may be altered as it erodes the hills to which the dam is anchored. Adding to their apprehension, numerous landslides on the damsite have been interpreted as harbingers of a looming disaster. https://www.assamtimes.org/node/23176  (30 Oct. 2023)

The ill will of a select few people led to the construction of the Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Power Project which is now posing a threat to the people of Assam, said the United Liberation Front of Asom – Independent (ULFA-I) on Monday (Oct. 30). https://www.pratidintime.com/latest-assam-news-breaking-news-assam/few-peoples-ill-will-led-to-construction-of-lower-subansiri-dam-ulfa-i  (30 Oct. 2023)

Officials assess damage caused by recent landslide During the visit, he interacted with director (projects), NHPC Ltd. Biswajit Basu who was present at project site during the day of occurrence. The NHPC official shared that the incident was an unavoidable natural calamity which however, does not affect the progress of the project, as the plugging process to close the diversion tunnel had already been initiated. On his part, the CMD HPDCAPL encouraged the NHPC team to complete the project as per revised target despite the recent setbacks and various hindrances. https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2023/11/02/hpdcapl-cmd-senior-officials-visit-slhep-2000-mw-assess-damage-caused-by-recent-landslide/  (02 Nov. 2023)

Group general manager (civil) Rajendra Prasad has assumed charge as head of project of NHPC’s 2000 MW Subansiri Lower Project from 1 November, informed an NHPC release. https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2023/11/02/rajendra-takes-charge-as-head-of-2000-mw-slp/  (02 Nov. 2023)

Meghalaya The Power Department has requested the Transport Department to ban overloaded trucks from plying on the bridge that spans the Umiam concrete dam’s spillway. Josephine Nongbet, the Under Secretary of the Power Department, wrote a letter to the Commissioner and Secretary of the Transport department stating that the safety audit report of the spillway, which was obtained from the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, is self-explanatory. https://theshillongtimes.com/2023/11/04/power-dept-seeks-ban-on-heavy-trucks-on-umiam-bridge/  (04 Nov. 2023)

Uttarakhand Joshimath awaits crucial outcome on NTPC Project  Rashme Sehgal Since IIT Roorkee , GSI have backed the NTPC project, the power company has knocked at the doors of the Nainital High Court, seeking permission to restart blasting and other construction work. By contrast, other scientists and geologists working in Uttarakhand say that a clear link exists between the emptying of the substrata water and the subsidence. The court, however, threw the ball to the NDMA, which heard NTPC’s plea on October 22. Lawyer Snigdha Tiwari argued the petitioner’s case against resuming construction. She claimed that if permission was granted to NTPC, the state “must also fix accountability, both criminal and personal, in case it aggravates the disaster or further increases subsidence in Joshimath”.

It is important to note that the NDMA has also examined the subsidence and reported that Joshimath town has exceeded its “carrying capacity”. The report says the town should be declared a “no new construction zone”. The role of the NDMA is to come into action once a calamity takes place. The state government, in the meantime, has evidently decided to clear numerous projects regardless of their scientific merit or ultimate outcomes. Therefore, the courts are the last recourse for the people living in these high-risk zones. Sadly, nobody seems ready to strike down projects, even though everybody has to bear the tremendous human and financial costs of those which fail.  https://www.newsclick.in/subsidence-struck-hill-states-await-crucial-outcome-ntpc-project  (31 Oct. 2023)

Himachal Pradesh Power Ministry again objects to water cess The state govt’s water cess on hydroelectric power projects has once again drawn objections from the central government, which called it “illegal and unconstitutional” in a circular issued last week. The 25 October circular — the second in seven months — comes as the state government continues to press on with the scheme in the hopes that it will generate a revenue of Rs 2,000 crore for the cash-strapped state. SJVN, NTPC, and NHPC have challenged the Sukhu government’s decision in the state’s high court.

The latest circular came on the back of a meeting between the Ministry of Power and officials of the state government on 4 October, The Print has learnt. According to some officials who didn’t want to be named, the Union government was told that the state was well within its rights to impose such a cess — a stand it has been maintaining since the row first began. https://theprint.in/politics/as-sukhu-govt-presses-on-with-water-cess-centre-sends-2nd-missive-illegal-unconstitutional/1824606/  (30 Oct. 2023)

In this report NHPC claims that the HRT work of the Parbati II dam is over. The commissioning date of the project work now going on for 23 years is now assumed to be Dec 2024.  https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/work-on-9-km-nhpc-tunnel-completed-after-23-year-delay-559207  (04 Nov. 2023)

MoEF Agenda of EAC meeting on River Valley Projects to be held on Nov 10 2023:

1. Sashnai Closed Loop Pumped Storage Project (1760 MW) in 294.67 ha located at Tehsil Robertsganj, District Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh by Torrent Power Limited – Terms of References

2. Dholpur Closed Loop Pumped Storage Project (1800 MW) in 719.51 Ha at Tehsil Sarmathura, District Dhaulpur, Rajasthan by Torrent Power Limited – Terms of References

3. Karauli Closed Loop Pumped Storage Project (1400 MW) in an area of 586.01 Ha at Tehsil Sarmathura, Dist Dhaulpur, Rajasthan by Torrent Power Limited – Terms of Reference

4. Greenko UP01 Closed Loop Pumped Storage Project (3660 MW) in 699.4207Ha at Village Gurar, Dist Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh by Greenko Energies Pvt Ltd – Terms of Reference

5. Pedakota Open Loop Pumped Storage Project (1800 MW) in 202.11 ha at Tehsil Anathagiri Taluka, Dist Alluri Seetharama Raju,Andhra Pradesh by Adani Green Energy Ltd – Terms of Reference https://parivesh.nic.in/utildoc/21094026_1698839595154.pdf

Relevant decisions from the minutes of the FAC Meeting held on Oct 20 2023:

– Diversion of 7.3722 ha of forest land as additional forest land requirement in already approved diversion in favour of Shongtong Karchham Hydro Electric Project, HPPCL under the jurisdiction of Kinnaur Forest Division, Dist Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh: More Info Sought

– Diversions of 406.79 ha. of forest land in favour of HPPCL for Thana Plaun Hydro Electric Project (191 MW), in Mandi & Jogindernagar forest Divisions, District Mandi, Himachal Pradesh: APPROVED

– Diversion of 12.8042 ha (previous proposed area 13.1959 ha) of Protected Forest land for Marshal Small Hydro Power Private Limited, in Rewa District of Madhya Pradesh: “the proposal cannot be considered in its present proposition.”

– Diversion of 530.85 ha (instead of 505.5 ha) of forest land for Banda Irrigation project of Water Resources Dept in Sagar District, Madhya Pradesh: Approved

–  Diversion of 1305.142 ha (instead of 1248.821 ha) forest land for Maa Ratangarh Multipurpose Project Datia and Gwalior Districts of Madhya Pradesh: Approved. https://forestsclearance.nic.in/writereaddata/FAC_Minutes/11113124112151MoMdated20102023.pdf

DAMS

SANDRP Blog Dam Safety Panel report of Medigadda Dam Disaster indicts Telangana, L&T & Dam Safety in India The Dam Safety Panel Report of Medigadda Dam disaster on Godavari River in Telangana’s Kaleshwaram Project is not only a serious indictment of the Telangana government, the construction company L&T and also, by implication, of the Dam Safety Mechanism in India.

The report from Union Jal Shakti Ministry, dated Nov 1 2023 says that the whole of Medigadda dam and possibly also two downstream dams will have to be fully re-built. Please Read, Share. https://sandrp.in/2023/11/03/dam-safety-panel-report-of-medigadda-dam-disaster-indicts-telangana-lt-and-dam-safety-in-india/  (03 Nov. 2023)

Kaleshwaram Project After Medigadda; Sundilla, Annaram Barrages in Trouble  Two more of the three barrages that are part of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation System (KLIS) – at Sundilla, and Annaram, have developed leaks from under the foundations causing concern among irrigation officials over safety of the two barrages. According to irrigation department officials, efforts are on to ‘build ring bunds’ – laying of sand bags on the upstream side of the barrages to cut water flow from the affected areas of the two barrages – was on but so far have not met with much success.

On Wednesday (Nov. 01) morning, it was first believed that the problem of leakages from under the foundations was only at the Annaram ‘Saraswati’ barrage, but soon after, it emerged that a similar problem was also occurring at the Sundilla ‘Parvati’ barrage. Sources said that an emergency ring bunds was being ‘built’ at Sundilla to reduce water pressure and the leak, and to prevent sand from getting displaced from under the foundations but their effectiveness in controlling the leaks, are questionable. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/011123/leaks-from-under-foundations-cause-concern.html  (01 Nov. 2023)

Leaks at two gates of Kaleshwaram reported Less than 10 days after a portion of the Lakshmi Barrage of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) fell in, another leak has been reported at gate nos 28 and 38 of the Annaram Saraswati Barrage. Videos have emerged on social media where water is seen rippling as local villagers and irrigation officials placed sandbags to stop the leak at the two gates of the Kaleshwaram Project. The process has been underway for two days, local reports said. https://www.siasat.com/telangana-leaks-at-two-gates-of-kaleshwaram-reported-2nd-in-10-days-2788716/  (01 Nov. 2023)

Sardar Sarovar Project SC seeks information on release of water in Narmada “Counsel for the respondent(s) seeks and is granted four weeks’ time to have instructions as to whether the matter was referred to the Narmada Control Authority, and if so, what the outcome of the same is,” the bench said while posting the matter for hearing on January 12, 2024. The top court was hearing an appeal filed by the Narmada Pradushan Nivaran Samiti and the Bharuch Citizen Council challenging a 2019 order of the NGT which refused to entertain the plea noting there was already a tribunal to adjudicate the matter.

The NGT had said two bodies — the Water Dispute Tribunal and the Narmada Control Authority — were already constituted to look into the issues related to the river. The petition had sought release of adequate water from the Sardar Sarovar Dam to the downstream areas of the Narmada river. It had also sought directions to make an urgent provision for the release of 1,500 cusecs of water from the Sardar Sarovar Dam to the downstream areas of the river on a daily basis. It claimed that the drying up of the river bed was causing an immense damage to the environment, agriculture and the local industries.

The petitioners claimed that the river was reduced to a small stream as only 600 cusecs of water were being released from the dam. The petition referred to a letter written by the Narmada and Water Resources, Water Supply and Kalpsar department, which had said the water released for the downstream areas of the river was not sufficient and an immediate intervention was needed. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/sc-seeks-information-on-release-of-water-from-sardar-sarovar-dam-to-narmada-downstream-2744619  (27 Oct. 2023)

Madhya Pradesh Flood affected villages still suffering As Madhya Pradesh heads for a closely fought Assembly election, the residents of Barwani, Alirajpur, Dhar and Khargone districts are not making any bones about their anger at the Bharatiya Janata Party government. “No BJP leader visited our village,” Mandloi said. “People are fed up with this government.”

– The sentiment was echoed across 170 villages in eight constituencies – Alirajpur, Kukshi, Manawar, Dharampuri, Barwani, Rajpur, Kasrawad and Maheshwar. Farmers here lost their cattle or found their crops damaged and their stock of grains ruined when water levels suddenly rose on the night of September 15. In parts of villages close to the river, the flood water has not receded. Many residents, such as Mandloi, cannot return home. https://scroll.in/article/1058114/their-houses-flooded-ahead-of-modis-birthday-voters-in-eight-madhya-pradesh-seats-angry-with-bjp  (02 Nov. 2023)

Rajasthan ERCP का सियासी गणित और डूब क्षेत्र की जनता का हाल  सियासत से इतर भी इस पूरी परियोजना को लेकर एक गंभीर मुद्दा डूब क्षेत्र के परिवारों के विस्थापन और मुआवजे की समस्या है, जिसे लेकर कोई भी सरकार चिंतित नज़र नहीं आ रही। इस परियोजना में बांधों को जोड़कर जल का प्रबंधन एक प्रमुख उपाय है। इसके लिए पूर्वी राजस्थान में दूसरी बड़ी परियोजना ईसरदा बांध का निर्माण कार्य जारी है।

-आंकड़ों की मानें तो बीते 10 साल में अभी तक ईसरदा बांध का निर्माण कार्य 65 प्रतिशत ही पूरा हुआ है। इस बांध की पहली डेडलाइन 2021, दूसरी अक्टूबर 2023 और अब तीसरी डेडलाइन अगस्त 2024 की गई है।

-स्थानीय लोगों के मुताबिक ईसरदा बांध के डूब क्षेत्र के अंतर्गत करीब 36 गांव आते हैं, जहां के ग्रामीण अधिग्रहित भूमि का उचित मुआवजा नहीं दिए जाने तथा पुनर्वास और रोजगार को लेकर कोई ठोस योजना नहीं होने से काफी परेशान हैं। लेकिन पक्ष-विपक्ष की नहर परियोजना को लेकर जारी राजनीति में इनकी तकलीफ किसी को दिखाई तक नहीं दे रही। https://hindi.newsclick.in/Rajasthan-Elections-Political-mathematics-of-Eastern-Rajasthan-Canal-Project-and-the-condition-of-the-people-of-the-submerged-area  (01 Nov. 2023)

URBAN RIVERS

Pavana; Pimpri-Chinchwad Chemically mixed sewage released into river The Pavana River, which supplies water to the city, overflowed four times in the past few days in Pimpri-Chinchwad city; chemically mixed drainage water is being discharged into the river. Contaminated water has flowed into the dam at Ravet and is being supplied to the city dwellers. Sanjay Kulkarni, Associate City Engineer of the Municipal Corporation’s Environment Department, is responsible for the plight of Pavanamai. https://punemirror.com/PCMC/pavana-river-overflows-four-times-chemically-mixed-sewage-released-into-the-river/cid1699106048.htm  (04 Nov. 2023)

RIVERS

EDIT Good to see editorial on Rivers. The edit should have mentioned the degradation of catchment area, lack of reporting about health of rivers and lack of any institution monitoring rivers or working for the cause of rivers. https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/editorial/india-s-and-the-world-s-rivers-are-drying-up-2748867  (31 Oct. 2023)

Sikkim Debate on construction & settlements near river banks Urban Development minister LB Das on Thursday suggested that the government should examine if the Teesta and Rangit riverine areas in Sikkim are safe for human settlements or go to the extent of declaring it as “no construction zone”. He was speaking in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly during the session on expressing condolence message to the victims of the recent natural disaster in Sikkim.

Similarly, Forest minister Karma Loday Bhutia observed that construction of residential buildings and industries should be avoided in the low-lying areas close to Teesta and Rangit rivers. He referred to what he was told by a person (following the flash flood), that “Teesta river merely claimed its original area”. He asked whose fault was to allow construction of residential buildings and pharma factories along the river banks. Does it has to be our government to correct the past mistakes?, he asked. https://sikkimexpress.com/news-details/debate-on-constructions-settlements-near-river-banks  (03 Nov. 2023)

GANGA Varanasi Modi flagged off tent city project without NMCG clearance On January 13 this year, PM Modi inaugurated the luxurious tent city on the floodplains of the Ganga in his constituency Varanasi, and flagged off the Ganga river cruise. Marvelling at the temporary structures with five-star facilities, Modi said: “This newly built, spectacular tent city is another reason for the visit of domestic and international tourists and devotees to Varanasi.”

But ten months on, the National Mission for Clean Ganga or NMCG – the nodal agency for restoration, rejuvenation and management of the Ganga and its tributaries under the Union ministry of Jal Shakti – has now told the National Green Tribunal that the project lacked a clearance as the Varanasi Development Authority did not take its approval.

No construction, temporary or permanent, is allowed on the floodplains of the Ganga or its tributaries, according to the notified rules under the River Ganga (Rejuvenation, Protection and Management) Authorities Order 2016. The rules say that temporary structures can be erected in “exceptional circumstances” – during natural calamities or religious events – but only with “prior permission” from NMCG.

The NMCG, however, said it received an application from VDA for approval only on April 21 this year, three months after the project became operational.

In March, one Tushar Goswami had approached the NGT, alleging that the tent city spread over “100 hectares” was in violation of the 2016 order, which prohibits construction on the riverbed. The tribunal had then formed a seven-member expert panel, comprising government officials, to probe the matter. It was during the hearing of this case that the NMCG shared its reply with the NGT last week.

– In a reply to the Varanasi development authority on October 26, the nodal agency for the management of the Ganga said that the project lacked clearance.  https://www.newslaundry.com/2023/10/30/modi-flagged-off-varanasi-tent-city-project-without-clean-ganga-clearance  (30 Oct. 2023)

YAMUNA  Delhi government has floated a request for proposals from research and academic institutions of national and international repute, consultancy firms and environmental NGOs for a study on frothing in Yamuna river in Delhi, officials said.  https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/delhi-govt-to-engage-academic-institutions-ngos-for-study-on-frothing-in-yamuna/article67493283.ece  (03 Nov. 2023)

FISH, FISHERIES, FISHERFOLKS

Mass fish deaths in Teesta river on Oct 27-28 2023 is seen as a result of the Teesta GLOF disaster that started on Oct 3 2023. https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1134882  (29 Oct. 2023)

SAND MINING

Coastline in Crisis: The perils facing the shoreline  “Sand mining across riverbeds, creeks and estuaries, destabilises the sediment flow, which is vital for protecting coastal cities. It doesn’t just impact sediment flow but imbalances the hydrological flow, affecting how much water reaches the coast. This has ramifications on freshwater availability, salinity intrusion, and consequently, on groundwater in coastal areas. Moreover, such mining has profound implications for infrastructure along the river, including bridges, canals, and roads,” said Himanshu Thakkar, coordinator of South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers & People (SANDRP), an advocacy and research organisation, said. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/mumbai-news/coastline-in-crisis-the-perils-facing-the-shoreline-101698843739663.html  (01 Nov. 2023)

Rajasthan Sand miners are the new narcos Sand mafias have turned illegal river mining into a thriving industry, luring young recruits and villagers with promises of wealth and power. Crime and cratered rivers are the collaterals.

Data from the SANDRP shows that between April 2022 and February 2023, there were three deaths and five injuries from attacks by illegal miners on RTI activists and other adversaries in western Indian states, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, and Madhya Pradesh.  https://theprint.in/ground-reports/sand-miners-are-the-new-narcos-rajasthan-gangs-offer-cash-career-swag/1832503/  (06 Nov. 2023)

Karnataka Deputy director geology dept murdered A woman officer working with the Karnataka government was brutally murdered at her residence in Bengaluru on Saturday night, November 4. The victim, identified as Pratima, held the position of Deputy Director in the Mines and Geology Department of Karnataka. https://www.thenewsminute.com/karnataka/deputy-director-of-karnataka-geology-dept-found-murdered-at-her-residence  (05 Nov. 2023)

Prathima KS is said to have prepared the report on illegal quarrying in Hunasamaranahalli, where an FIR was filed against an MLA and others.  Prathima had conducted a physical inspection of the quarrying site and submitted a report to the government.  According to sources, the report had quoted a loss of Rs 25.35 lakh.  In July, a case was registered against the BJP MLA, one Anand, V Ganesh and Radhamma at the Chikkajala police station for alleged illegal quarrying in survey numbers 177/3, 178/1–2–3, 179 at Hunasamaranahalli, and 34/1–2–3 and 17/7–8–9 at Sonnappanahalli. 

Following Prathima’s death, purported copies of the report surfaced online. A citizen is learnt to have obtained a copy of the report through the RTI.   “Illegal quarrying has been done without permission in four acres and five guntas of land; 51,460 metric tonnes of earth has been excavated in four areas. There is a stockpile of 5,000 metric tonnes of building stone at the site; 25,876 metric tonnes of building stone were transported elsewhere. Due to this, the government has faced a loss of Rs 25.35 lakh,” the report stated. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/deceased-geologist-submitted-illegal-quarrying-report-indicting-mla-2757921  (06 Nov. 2023)

Uttar Pradesh कैराना। एआरटीओ से बचकर भाग रहा रेत का डंपर दुल्हन की गाड़ी के ऊपर पलट गया। जिससे गाड़ी में सवार दुल्हन का भाई, बड़ी बहन व भांजा घायल हो गए। पुलिस व लोगों ने गाड़ी को तोड़कर घायलों को बाहर निकाला तथा सीएचसी पहुंचाया। जहां से दुल्हन के भाई व भांजे को रेफर कर दिया। रविवार (Oct. 29)  को ब्लाॅक काॅलोनी निवासी रमेश की पुत्री नैना की झिंझाना क्षेत्र के गांव अलीनगर से बरात आई थी। शादी की रस्में पूरी होने के बाद शाम करीब 5 बजे दुल्हा पंकज, दुल्हन नैना, दुल्हन की बड़ी बहन सोनी, भाई मनोज और भांजा आठ वर्षीय श्याम गाड़ी द्वारा अलीनगर जा रहे थे। इसी दौरान भूरा बाईपास पर एआरटीओ द्वारा पीछा करने पर तेज गति से आ रहा रेत का डंपर अनियंत्रित होकर गाड़ी के ऊपर पलट गया। गाड़ी में दबने से चीख पुकार मच गई। सूचना पर पुलिस ने मौके पर पहुंचकर लोगो की मदद से गाड़ी को तोड़कर घायलों को बाहर निकाला तथा सीएचसी पहुंचाया। हादसे में दुल्हा पंकज व दुल्हन नैना बाल बाल बच गए जबकि दुल्हन की बड़ी बहन सोनी के हाथ में चोट आईं तथा भाई मनोज व भांजा श्याम गंभीर रूप से घायल हो गए। https://www.amarujala.com/uttar-pradesh/shamli/the-sand-dumper-running-away-from-arts-overturned-on-the-brides-car-shamli-news-c-26-1-sal1001-11231-2023-10-30  (30 Oct. 2023)

शामिली में विदाई के बाद दुल्हन को घर लेकर लौट रही कार पर रेत से भरा डंपर अचानक पलट गया। डंपर कर के पिछले हिस्से पर पलटने के कारण कार में सवार कई लोग गंभीर रूप से घायल हो गए। जबकि आरोपित डंपर चालक मौके से फरार हो गया। इस हादसे में दुल्हन भी बाल बाल बच गई। https://www.bhaskar.com/local/uttar-pradesh/shamli/news/dumper-filled-with-sand-on-brides-car-in-shamli-132072861.html  (30 Oct. 2023)

Jammu & Kashmir Unbridled excavation of Karewas in the past over a decade for filling up floodplains in the Jhelum basin, for infrastructure development projects like Railways and Highways, has lead to enhanced soil erosion from Karewas and siltation of the waterways of Kashmir. Its ill-effects were visible during the devastating floods in 2014 when floodwaters overflowed the Jhelum banks. Noted geo-scientist Prof Shakil Romshoo says globally the Karewas of Kashmir are subject of intense multidisciplinary scientific research, “but the people of this place are completely oblivious of the scientific and historical importance of these landforms.”

There is a need for strict legislation to prevent further vandalisation of Karewas. There must be an immediate blanket ban on excavation of soil from Karewas at any cost. No amount of money can compensate for the loss of Karewas. We can build big buildings, bridges and roads but not Karewas! We have no right to vandalise natural assets. It is our moral, social and religious duty to preserve the environment for future generations. We have to act as guardians rather than destroyers. Owing to immense scientific and cultural importance, Karewas must be preserved as a natural museum. Our Karewas can be of immense interest to scientists and attraction to tourists. Government must explore the possibility of declaring Karewas as heritage sites. https://www.greaterkashmir.com/todays-paper/editorial-page/prevent-unbridled-vandalisation-of-kashmirs-karewas  (30 Oct. 2023)  

WETLANDS, LAKES, WATER BODIES

Tamil Nadu Railways, Tourism Dept violating Wetland Rules: Activists  Chairperson of the Confederation of Environment Associations of Nilgiris (CEAN), Surjit K Chaudhary, a retired IAS officer, has stated that both the Salem division of Southern Railways and the Tourism Department are in violation of the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017 and has urged the District Collector to immediately stop work at both the project sites surrounding the Ooty lake. In his letter, Mr. Choudhary stated that according to Rule 4, dealing with “any construction of a permanent nature except for boat jetties within 50 meters of the mean high flood level observed in the past ten years calculated from the date of commencement of these rules” is to be enforced by the State and district authorities. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/railways-tourism-department-violating-wetland-rules-in-udhagamandalam-says-conservation-group/article67476547.ece (30 Oct 2023)

GROUNDWATER

EDIT The use of technologies that allow people to monitor the water available in their borewells could be the first step to nudge them to manage aquifers responsibly. These could be the catalyst for bringing about behavioural changes. https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/editorials/un-report-on-groundwater-extraction-every-drop-counts-9008120/  (01 Nov. 2023)

Andhra Pradesh यूरेनियम खदानों से सेहत और खेतों पर असर पड़ा तुम्मलापल्ले खदान के पास रहने वाले स्थानीय लोगों का कहना है कि यूरेनियम खदान के टेलिंग तालाब से अपशिष्ट भूजल में मिल रहा है, जिससे बड़े पैमाने पर प्रदूषण हो रहा है। तुम्मलापल्ले खदान को देश के सबसे बड़े यूरेनियम भंडार में से एक माना जाता है। किसानों ने अपनी फसलों, मुख्य रूप से केले के बागानों पर सफेद धूल की शिकायत की और कहा कि यह फसल बौनी हो रही है। स्थानीय निवासी भूजल प्रदूषण की भी शिकायत करते हैं, जिससे त्वचा संबंधी समस्याएं और बीमारियां होती हैं और महिलाओं में प्रजनन संबंधी समस्याएं भी सामने आ रही हैं। प्रदूषण बोर्ड ने यहां से कुछ नमूने लेकर 2019 में एक अध्ययन किया था। भूजल में यूरेनियम संदूषण का उच्च स्तर पाया गया था। https://hindi.mongabay.com/2023/11/03/residents-near-one-of-indias-largest-uranium-mines-suspect-contamination-affecting-their-fields-and-health/  (03 Nov. 2023)

URBAN WATER

Sangli Irrigation dept seeks 2 TMC from Koyna dam Residents of Sangli city, towns and villages that depend on Krishna river for meeting their water needs are facing acute shortage due to the depleting level of the waterbody. The irrigation department sought release of 2 TMC water from the Koyna dam into Krishna river. Jyoti Devkar, executive engineer of Sangli irrigation circle, confirmed that the demand was placed and the discharge has been initiated. “On Friday, a discharge of 1,050 cusec was initiated from the power house spillway of the dam and it is likely to be increased further,” she said.

– Last week, the affected residents had raised their voice on the issue of water shortage following which release of 1 TMC water was sought from the Koyna dam authorities. Accordingly, a discharge of 2,100 cusec from the power house spillway of the dam was initiated. However, the demand was such that the water didn’t last for more than a week and the water level in Krishna river has again depleted. Few days ago, a meeting of the canal advisory committee of Sangli district was held under guardian minister Suresh Khade. During the meeting it was decided to request the state government for reducing water supply for power generation at the dam and make it available for irrigation exclusively for Sangli district. “Around 12 TMC of water has been sought to run the irrigation project in Sangli district. A decision on the proposal is expected soon,” a senior district official said. Due to less rainfall, the Koyna dam has not filled to its capacity for first time in last 18 years. Currently, the live storage of the dam is 82 TMC. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolhapur/sangli-irrigation-dept-seeks-2-tmc-from-koyna-dam/articleshow/104957339.cms  (04 Nov. 2023)

Bengaluru Apartments with STPs cry foul as BWSSB imposes sanitary fee Several apartment residents are in a precarious situation: They treat the sewage water they generate but are forced to pay hefty sanitary charges by Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB). Sanitary charges are typically levied for wastewater removal from buildings. Apartments with more than 20 flats are required to treat their sewage by establishing STPs as per BWSSB rules introduced in 2014.

Sri Vidhya Murali, a resident of Ajmera Green Acres on Bannerghatta Road, said: “Our apartment has over 320 flats. We treat sewage, so why do we have to pay? BWSSB is not providing us with any services, not even underground drains (UGD) in case of excess treated water or emergencies. We were charged Rs 50,000 as sanitary charges last month. We raised this issue at a water adalat of BWSSB. We were told that they have noted everything and assured us that they will look into the matter.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/apartments-with-stps-cry-foul-as-bwssb-imposes-sanitary-fee/articleshow/104997092.cms  (06 Nov. 2023)

WATER

Report NITI weighs discontinuing key water report launched 5 years ago Niti Aayog, the government’s think tank, is learnt to have marked the reports on states progress on water management for 2018-19 and 2019-20 for “internal use” after having publicly released the previous editions. The report, published by NITI Aayog, was prepared in association with three ministries — Water Resources, Drinking Water & Sanitation, and Rural Development.

Called the ‘Composite Water Management Index’ report, the first edition launched five years ago in June 2018 brought India’s water challenges into spotlight and ranked states in terms of efficacy based on 28 parameters. The first edition provided data for 2015-16 and 2016-17, and the second edition launched in August 2019 was for 2017-18.

In May this year, the NITI Aayog wrote to the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti, seeking the government’s perspective on the “use and applicability” of the Index and whether the CWMI should continue. There has been no response from the Ministry, even as the third and fourth editions are awaiting release, sources said. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/niti-weighs-discontinuing-key-water-report-launched-5-years-ago-9015084/  (06 Nov. 2023)

MONSOON 2023

SANDRP Blog High Rainfall days in India’s districts in Sept 2023 An analysis of the daily district wise rainfall data from India Meteorological Department (IMD) for the month of September 2023, the last month of India’s South West Monsoon 2023 shows that there were 406 (417 in Sept 2022] and 489 in Sept 2021) instances when district rainfall of a day was above 50 mm. Such high rainfall instances included 330 (365 and 374 in Sept 2022 and 2021 respectively) instances when rainfall was 50-100 mm, 64 (47 and 84 in Sept 2022 and 2021) instances when it was 100-150 mm, 10 (3 and 20 in Sept 2022 and 2021) times when it was 150-200 mm and twice (two and eleven in Sept 2022 and 2021 respectively) when rainfall in a day was above 200 mm. https://sandrp.in/2023/11/01/high-rainfall-days-in-indias-districts-in-sept-2023/  (01 Nov. 2023)

Report What a normal monsoon hide There have been large variations in the distribution of rainfall, in spatial as well as temporal terms. While some days produced very heavy rainfall, prolonged periods went extremely dry. Similarly, a majority of the districts received very little rainfall during most of the season. This rainfall variability only seems to be increasing, possibly because of climate change. https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/what-a-normal-monsoon-hides-9008385/  (01 Nov. 2023)

Oct 2023 rainfall in South India has been 60% below normal, sixth lowest since 1901, due to combined effect of strengthening El Nino (Likely to continue strengthening till March 2024) and positive Indian Ocean Dipole. This combination generally brings normal rainfall, but this time the impact has been opposite. Nov rainfall may be between 23% deficit to 23% surplus, IMD calls it normal due to inherent variability of Nov Rainfall. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/imd-november-weather/article67480566.ece  (01 Nov. 2023)

Karnataka Expressing concern over the change in rainfall pattern and temperature in Kodagu, an expert well versed with the hilly district’s ecosystem has suggested that the government should ask research centres to collate rainfall data from farmers’ rain gauges to study the impact of climate change on the district’s ecosystem as well as catchment area of river Cauvery. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/biodiversity-expert-calls-for-collating-rainfall-data-from-farmers/article67454245.ece  (29 Oct. 2023)

IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said the current weather models were showing that El Niño might weaken from April onwards and turn into ‘neutral’, though it is difficult to predict such conditions beyond six months with accuracy. https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/el-nino-might-not-play-a-decisive-role-in-2024-monsoon-says-imd-123103101120_1.html  (31 Oct. 2023)

URBAN FLOODS

Study Green infra solutions have marginal impact in flood management in Ahmedabad Effective flood management in Ahmedabad requires more than green infrastructure, revealed a joint study by Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) and the University of Cambridge, UK.

The study underscores the necessity for location-specific models or green infrastructure (GI) solutions and enhancing conventional urban drainage infrastructure to mitigate the risk of urban flooding during excessive downpours. “The results underscore an essential point that the reduction in flooded areas does not directly result in a decrease in peak flood depth within the zones. This highlights the importance of considering variations in flood characteristics such as depth and extent, when evaluating the efficacy of flood management strategies,” the study states as shared by IITGN.

Explaining the significance of the work, Prof Udit Bhatia, Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at IITGN, said, “With accelerating urbanisation, flood risks are becoming increasingly pervasive. This study highlights the necessity for location-specific models that critically evaluate the effectiveness of flood mitigation strategies such as green infrastructure. Universal solutions are ill-suited to address the unique challenges posed by rapid urban growth and climate change.” The results reinforce the need to strengthen and expand our cities’ existing stormwater drainage systems to counter urban flood crises instead of relying on alternative pathways like green infrastructure, he added.

The study evaluated four types of green infrastructure — green roofs, permeable pavements, bioretention cells and vegetative swales — in Ahmedabad. Vegetative swales are engineered structures designed with multiple layers of soil for the purpose of growing vegetation while also aiding retention, infiltration, and evapotranspiration, essential for the reduction of flood peaks and flood extents. After scrutiny, the researchers used several metrics to compare the advantage/efficacy of one green infrastructure with another regarding their ability for peak flow reduction and flood volume reduction.

“In the face of increased incidences of erratic weather and resultant flooding in rapidly urbanising cities, effective urban flood management strategies have become both a challenge and an urgent requirement. While many large cities around the world, including India, have employed alternative solutions like Green Infrastructure (GI) interventions, its effectiveness in mitigating urban flooding and water logging during torrential rains remains a puzzle,” the study highlights. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/green-infrastructure-solutions-flood-management-study-9014733/  (05 Nov. 2023)

DROUGHT

Maharashtra government has declared drought in 42 blocks. However, farmers’ leaders mention that farmers in more than 100 blocks are reeling from drought. Questions have also been raised over the methodology of declaring drought in the state. https://www.gaonconnection.com/kisaanconnection/maharashtra-drought-declaration-mechanism-methodology-farmers-suicide-crop-losses-soybean-climate-change-marathwada-52933  (04 Nov. 2023)

Tamil Nadu Distress in the delta After a dismal kuruvai season, the long-term samba/thaladi, the main crop of the year, too, has run into rough weather in the canal-irrigated areas. Farmers, who are yet to get compensation for the kuruvai crop loss, want the government to declare the State drought-hit and seek relief from the Centre. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/distress-in-the-delta/article67498959.ece  (04 Nov. 2023)

ENVIRONMENT GOVERNANCE

Biosphere reserves are evolving as pockets of hope On the second anniversary of World Biosphere Reserve Day, November 3, it is important to reflect on the progress made in conserving and sustainably using these vital ecosystems. https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/biosphere-reserves-are-evolving-as-pockets-of-hope/article67489767.ece  (03 Nov. 2023)

CLIMATE CHANGE

Jammu & Kashmir Kashmir’s cherished houseboats were stranded, rivers ran at historic lows, apple harvests were hit, and power cuts rose during an unusual but recently familiar heatwave—temperatures soared up to 10 deg C above normal—during the hottest September the world has ever recorded. Environmental damage, unregulated construction and government policies have exacerbated the effects of global warming and hit livelihoods in a region that reflects and affects subcontinental weather. https://article-14.com/post/in-kashmir-bellwether-of-india-s-changing-climate-heatwaves-receding-glaciers-drying-rivers-power-cuts-falling-harvests–654808bce514d  (06 Nov. 2023)

SOUTH ASIA

Study Impact of sediment flux & calibre on flood risk in Kathmandu Valley This paper presents the first model that explores the impact of sediment grain size and future climate change on bed morphology and flood inundation in a Himalayan River. Detailed analysis of the role of sediment on flood risk is critical in sediment-rich mountain catchments, particularly where urban development impacts land-use change incorporating industries such as sand mining. To achieve this, we use the CAESAR-Lisflood landscape evolution model applied to a 10 m DEM data set of the Nakkhu River in the Kathmandu Valley.

The principal results show that inclusion of sediment transport in numerical models leads to modifications of river channel morphology & results in increased flood inundation over the floodplain for modelled small & large flood events. In addition, sediment flux through the model river increases approximately linearly with discharge, particularly for high flow events. Grain size distribution affects inundation extent, with the effect most pronounced for annually recurring events that predominantly transport fine sediment rather than coarse sediment. During less frequent (higher magnitude) flood discharge, all grain sizes are mobilised and the impact of grain size distribution on river morphology and inundation is diminished. This broadly implies that fine-grained sediment-rich rivers are most sensitive to changes in flood inundation. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/esp.5731 (1 Nov 2023)

Nepal Environmentalists push back against hydropower plans in protected areas The Ministry of Forest and Environment has proposed a new procedure that would allow large-scale hydropower development inside protected areas, with fewer environmental safeguards and more legal loopholes. Conservationists and legal experts have criticized the proposal as going against the Constitution and the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act as well as risking the biodiversity and ecosystem services of Nepal’s protected areas. They have also warned that the proposal could undermine the balance between development and conservation and expose the country to more climate change impacts such as floods and landslides.

– Nepal is home to 12 national parks, a wildlife reserve, a hunting reserve, six conservation areas and 13 buffer zones extending from lowland Terai to high mountains, covering 23.39% of the country’s total land area, according to the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation.

– The new document is intended to replace its predecessor framed and implemented 15 years ago. The old document bans the development of any power project that entirely occupies an area inside a national park or a protected area. However, the old document allows a concession to local communities to build plants of up to 1 MW (provided they are not connected to the national grid) for local use. It states that at least 50 per cent of the monthly natural flow should be maintained in the river during the peak dry season after the water passes through the hydropower plant. According to the new document, hydropower projects with an installed capacity of 100 MW or above falling entirely within a conservation area will be allowed to release as little as 10 per cent of water in the river during the peak dry season. https://english.onlinekhabar.com/hydropower-protected-area-nepal.html  (31 Oct. 2023)

India-Nepal Nepal will have a chance to export more hydroelectricity to India as India introduced a new rule allowing Indian distributors to incorporate imported hydropower into the renewable energy quota set for them. In a new notification issued last week, India’s power ministry set a new quota of renewable energy that distribution companies should meet starting from the fiscal year 2024-25. Minimum quotas related to wind energy, hydro renewable energy, distributed renewable energy and other renewables have been set. While setting the quota, the ministry also told the distribution companies that they can also meet the hydro quota by importing hydropower, this will be approved by the Central Govt on case by case basis.

– As per the latest notification, it aims to maintain the share of renewable energy to a minimum 29.91 percent in 2024-25 and increase it to 43.33 percent by the 2029. The quota of hydroelectricity has been fixed at 0.38 percent for the fiscal 2024-25. This must be jacked up to 1.33 percent by fiscal 2029-30. https://kathmandupost.com/money/2023/10/29/nepal-s-power-could-light-more-of-india-after-new-import-rule  (29 Oct. 2023)

Bhutan DGPC has completed the preparation of the detailed project reports of four hydropower projects to be implemented under Phase II. Under phase-II small hydropower projects include, 90MW Jomori in SamdrupJongkhar, 54MW Gamri I in Trashigang, and 26MW Druk Bindu (I & II) in Samtse. https://kuenselonline.com/more-small-hydropower-projects-begin/  (28 Oct. 2023)

India-Pakistan Water of 5 rivers have a symbolic reunion at Ravi Peace activists from India and Pakistan became witnesses to history on Nov 2 2023 evening as water from the five rivers of undivided Punjab was taken to the banks of the Ravi in the neighbouring country’s Lahore for an emotional and first-of-its-kind symbolic reunion. The unique initiative, Vichrae Panj Paaniyan Da Mael (meeting of the separated waters of five rivers), was undertaken by Jeevay Sanjha Punjab and Ravi Bachao Tehreek – two organisations from India and Pakistan working for peace and protecting the rivers of Punjab. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/lahore-water-rivers-east-west-punjab-symbolic-reunion-ravi-9011706/  (03 Nov. 2023)

Pakistan The causes of the 18 April 2023 Torkham Rockslide in Pakistan Dave Petley Seven people were killed in a failure that was probably caused by undercutting of the slope and triggered by heavy rainfall. https://eos.org/thelandslideblog/torkham-rockslide-2 (2 Nov 2023)

ASIA

MEKONG Laos Sustainable pivot needed to secure Laos’ future There was much discussion of the impact these hydropower projects would have on water flows, sediment flows, water quality and fisheries, with many analysts predicting that the projects developed through public-private partnerships would be financially profitable. And yet, overall, they have significantly contributed to Laos’ debt commitments that exceed 100% of the country’s GDP. Hydropower was expected to drag its people out of poverty, but Laos is now walking a financial tightrope and teetering on the edge of a precarious economic situation.

Some positive changes have occurred, including temporary job opportunities and better infrastructure. However, these initial gains fall short of meeting needs, with the World Bank reporting in 2022 that total revenue from the power sector represents less than 10% of Laos’ fiscal revenue. These short-term benefits of hydropower projects on the nation’s prosperity also need to be further assessed with a wider lens. Local communities have borne the brunt of the social costs through forced relocations and disrupted livelihoods. https://asiatimes.com/2023/11/sustainable-pivot-needed-to-secure-laos-future/  (02 Nov. 2023)

THE REST OF THE WORLD

Amazon drought reveals ancient carvings Ancient human faces and other figures carved into stone have emerged from the Amazon River as a historic drought in the Brazilian region has brought water levels to record lows. The rock carvings depicting animals and other natural forms have been uncovered on the shores of the Rio Negro at an archaeological site called Ponto das Lajes, which means “Place of Slabs.”

Researchers estimate that the markings are between 1,000 and 2,000 years old. Archaeologist Jaime de Santana Oliveira said the carvings were first seen there in 2010, but this year’s drought has been more severe, with the Rio Negro dropping 15 metres (49.2 feet) since July, exposing vast expanses of rocks and sand where there had been no beaches. https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/mysterious-2-000-year-old-stone-faces-found-in-amazon-river-drought-4511293  (25 Oct. 2023)

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

Also see: DRP News Bulletin 30 Oct. 2023 & DRP News Bulletin 23 Oct. 2023  

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