(Feature Image: Recreational fishers catching fish in Yamuna river downstream Wazirabad barrage in Delhi in June 2023. Image: BS Rawat, SANDRP.)

On the World Fisheries Day, celebrated on Nov 21 every year, there is urgent need to focus attention on the well-being of one of the poorest and socio-economically weakest and much neglected section of population: Inland fisherfolks. They are in huge number, more than 2 crore directly dependent on inland fisheries, many others indirectly dependent. They, unfortunately have no voice in development discourse or decision making processes, nor any even in mitigation measures. Creating an inland fisheries policy, department and institute in every state and at centre can be an important step forward.

Poster of National Platform for Small Scale Fish workers below on the occasion of the World Fisheries Day on Nov 21 2023.

Their Demands:

– Immediate ban on all destructive fishing gears and methods like trawling, purse seining and fishing by mosquito nets, poisons, explosives, electricity etc.

– Stop pollution of, encroachments on and excessive diversion of water from water bodies.

– Issue collective patta (user title) to small scale fishers in recognition of their right to sustainable fishing and fish farming in all public water bodies including the seas, rivers, reservoirs, lakes and wetlands.

– Make the corporates and countries responsible for global warming pay for its damages – we need climate justice now.

Centre Inland fish production up over 2-fold in 9 yrs to 13.1 mn tonnes: Minister  Union Minister Rupala says India’s inland fish production has more than doubled in the last nine years to 131 lakh tonnes. A ‘Global Fisheries Conference India 2023’ is being organised in Ahmedabad from November 21-22 2023 to discuss immense potential as well as challenges in the sector.

– The average growth of the fisheries sector stood at 8.6 per cent in the last 9 years. The sector contributes a little over 1 per cent to the country’s GDP. Indian fisheries and aquaculture provide livelihood and employment to more than 30 million (3 crore) fishers and fish farmers at the primary level and many more along the fisheries value chain. During the 2022-23 fiscal, India exported fish and fish products valued at USD 8.09 billion. A major chunk of the exports comprised frozen shrimp with an export earning of USD 5.48 billion. https://www.business-standard.com/industry/news/inland-fish-production-up-over-2-fold-in-9-yrs-to-13-1-mn-tonnes-minister-123111600508_1.html  (16 Nov. 2023) https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1977356  (16 Nov. 2023)

HYDRO POWER PROJECTS

SANDRP Blog Parbati-II Leakage disaster in Himachal in Nov 2023 The 800 MW project is being developed by NHPC Ltd at Siund in the Sainj valley of Kullu district of HP. The project had faced several serious disasters and problems including repeated leakages, frequent landslides, tunnel boring machine getting stuck for year and fire incidents affecting the project for the past 23 years since the construction started.

The project completion has already been delayed by over 15 years. Initially, the project was to be completed by 2009 but the latest deadline has been extended to September 2024. Recently NHPC had claimed that it had successfully completed the construction of 32 km long head race tunnel (HRT) of the project. However, this fresh incident has reignited fears & threats of untoward disaster among local people in Sainj valley. https://sandrp.in/2023/11/20/parbati-ii-leakage-disaster-in-himachal-pradesh-in-nov-2023/  (20 Nov. 2023)

Himachal Pradesh Jangi Thopan HEP cancelled The State Cabinet in its meeting held here today (Nov 18 2023) has decided to cancel the allotment of Jangi Thopan Powari Hydro Electric Power Project (780 MW) made in favour of SJVNL, as the company has failed to achieve progress in the implementation of the project within the stipulated time period. http://himachalpr.gov.in/OneNews.aspx?Language=1&ID=32087  (18 Nov. 2023)

Jangi Thopan Powari hydro electric project with capacity of 780 MW is located on Satluj river in Kinnaur district and it was allotted to SJVNL on November 24, 2018 by state government and MoU for this was signed between SJVNL and State Government on September 25, 2019. Investment approval for pre-construction activities amounting to Rs 93.24 crore was accorded by Government of India on May 20, 2021. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/shimla/himachal-pradesh-govt-cancels-allotment-of-780mw-jangi-thopan-powari-hydro-electric-project-to-sjvnl/articleshow/105316614.cms  (18 Nov. 2023)

Study Snow/Ice Melt, Precipitation & Groundwater Contribute to Sutlej System Abstract: -This study examines the proportional contribution of snow/ice melt, rainfall, and groundwater to Sutlej River discharge at various locations. The findings from the hydrograph-separation and SNOWMOD analysis established a fundamental understanding of the hydrological processes in the Sutlej River system, providing valuable baseline data essential for developing sustainable water resource management strategies. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11270-023-06744-4  (15 Nov. 2023)

Arunachal Pradesh Govt approves DPRs of 2 SJVN projects in Arunachal Pradesh worth Rs 40,000 cr SJVN Ltd on Friday (Nov. 17) said the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has given its approval to the company’s detailed project reports (DPRs) for two hydro projects worth around Rs 40,000 crore. While the Etalin hydroelectric power (HEP) is of 3,097 MW, the Attunli HEP is of 680 MW, SJVN said in a statement. “Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Ministry of Power has transferred concurrences of DPRs of 3,097 MW Etalin HEP & 680 MW Attunli HEP in favour of the Company. CEA has also extended the validity of said concurrences,” the company said. The project cost of Etalin HEP at March 2022 price level is Rs 32,813 crore and for Attunli HEP it is Rs 6,866 crore. https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/renewable/govt-approves-dprs-of-2-sjvn-projects-in-arunachal-pradesh-worth-rs-40000-cr/105137284  (11 Nov. 2023)

Sikkim Tender details of NHPC for the repair of Teesta V project: Restoration of Civil Works for Dam, Desilting Chamber, Silt Flushing Tunnel and Part HRT (Up To Adit I of HRT) Of Teesta-V Power Station. https://www.sentinelassam.com/tender/nhpcl-invites-tender-for-restoration-of-civil-works-for-dam-in-sikkim-2023nhpc7811081-676162  (17 Nov. 2023)

The Indian Army troops of Trishakti Corps and BRO have completed the construction of a Bailey bridge over the Teesta River at Chungthang. This crucial infrastructure was washed away after GLOF incident on October 3.  Earlier on Nov. 9, the Trishakti Corps and officials from telecom company Airtel restored communication networks in the Lachen Valley. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indian-army-bro-completes-chungthang-bailey-bridge-connecting-north-sikkim-101700119241749.html  (16 Nov. 2023)

Kerala 7 friends set up state’s first pvt hydel power plant  A group of friends in Idukki district have successfully set up Kerala’s first private small hydroelectric plant. The idea was conceived by Rakesh Roy, an engineer, who was inspired a newspaper report on small hydro power projects. Rakesh and his friends approached the state govt for approval and secured Rs. 19 crore funding from two Delhi based central institutions. The 4 MW project received govt approval in Feb 2021. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/a-powerful-idea-7-pals-set-up-keralas-first-private-hydel-plant/articleshow/105218570.cms  (15 Nov. 2023)

Study Shifted sediment-transport regimes by climate change & amplified hydrological variability in cryosphere-fed rivers Abstract: -Climate change affects cryosphere-fed rivers and alters seasonal sediment dynamics, affecting cyclical fluvial material supply and year-round water-food-energy provisions to downstream communities. Here, we demonstrate seasonal sediment-transport regime shifts from the 1960s to 2000s in four cryosphere-fed rivers characterized by glacial, nival, pluvial, and mixed regimes, respectively. Spring sees a shift toward pluvial-dominated sediment transport due to less snowmelt and more erosive rainfall. Summer is characterized by intensified glacier meltwater pulses and pluvial events that exceptionally increase sediment fluxes.

Our study highlights that the increases in hydroclimatic extremes and cryosphere degradation lead to amplified variability in fluvial fluxes and higher summer sediment peaks, which can threaten downstream river infrastructure safety and ecosystems and worsen glacial/pluvial floods. We further offer a monthly-scale sediment-availability-transport model that can reproduce such regime shifts and thus help facilitate sustainable reservoir operation and river management in wider cryospheric regions under future climate and hydrological change. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adi5019  (08 Nov. 2023)

MoEF Adani Green Energy advisor on EAC committee: Report In a development raising concerns over potential conflicts of interest, the Indian Express on Tuesday (Nov. 14) reported that a key advisor to Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), Janardan Choudhary, now serves as a member of one of the Centre’s Expert Appraisal Committees (EAC) which gives the nod to hydroelectricity project proposals, such as those put forth by AGEL.

Choudhary’s appointment by the Union Environment Ministry to the EAC for hydroelectricity and river valley projects has drawn attention as several of AGEL’s hydro project proposals are currently under EAC review. The report notes that these encompass various capacities and locations, such as 850 MW Raiwada and 1800 MW Pedakota proposals in Andhra Pradesh as well as 2100 MW Patgaon, 2,450 MW Koyna-Nivakane, 1500 MW Malshej Ghat Bhorande, and 1500 MW Tarali proposals in Maharashtra.

As per the report, Choudhary attended the first meeting of the reconstituted EAC on October 17, the same day AGEL’s 1500 MW Tarali Pumping Storage Project in Maharashtra came under review. AGEL sought an amendment to the project’s Terms of Reference for a layout revision, and eventually, the EAC’s recommendation favoured the Adani company. While Choudhary claims to have abstained from the discussion, the report notes that EAC meeting minutes do not reflect this, prompting him to tell the publication that they will be amended.

The potential conflict of interest has sparked concerns about the impartiality of the appraisal process, with experts highlighting the need to address the broader issue of such appointments becoming routine in appraisal committees. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/adani-green-energy-advisor-on-environment-ministrys-clearance-committee-report-2769512 (14 Nov 2023)

Decisions of EAC meeting of River Valley Projects held on Oct 26 2023:

1. FOLLOWING PARA SEEMS TO HAVE BEEN ADDED AS AN AFTERTHOUGHT, and IS NOT LIKELY TO HAVE BEEN PART OF THE DISCUSSION OF THE ABOVE MINUTES. THIS HAS POSSIBLY BEEN ADDED AFTER THE HUE AND CRY RAISED in the media, opposition circles and others AFTER the publication of INDIAN EXPRESS Front Page Story  on Nov 14 2023 and subsequent PTI and other stories. To that extent this is misguiding and seems fraudulent addition. In any case, this does not help resolve the conflict of interest mentioned in the para below.

“The EAC while confirming the Minutes of the 1st EAC meeting held on 17-18 October, 2023 and recommended for addition of following para after completion of para no. 1.5.1 of Agenda Item No. 1.5 regarding grant of amendment in TOR issued on 09.11.2022 for conducting EIA study for construction of Tarali Off Stream Open Loop Pumping Storage Project (1500 MW) in an area of 150.74 ha at Village Kalambe, Jalu, Nivade and Tondoshi, Sub District Patan, District Satara, Maharashtra by M/s Adani Green Energy Limited, [Proposal No. IA/MH/RIV/443150/2023; F. No. J12011/52/2023-IA.I (R)] : “…Shri Janardan Choudhary is presently working as Advisor in M/s Adani Green Energy Ltd; so, to avoid any conflict of Interest he had not participated in the deliberations on Agenda item No. 1.5 regarding grant of amendment in TOR issued by the Ministry on 09.11.2023 for conducting EIA study for construction of Tarali Off Stream Open Loop Pumping Storage Project (1500 MW) in an area of 150.74 ha at Village Kalambe, Jalu, Nivade and Tondoshi, Sub District Patan, District Satara, Maharashtra by M/s Adani Green Energy Limited of M/s Adani Green Energy Limited….” With the above corrections the EAC confirmed the Minutes of the 1st EAC meeting held on 17-18 October, 2023.”

2. Gandikota Pumped Storage Project (1000 MW) by NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION OF ANDHRA PRADESH LTD (NREDCAP) located at Y.S.R.,ANDHRA PRADESH FOR EC: More Info Sought

3. Sharavathy Pumped Storage Project (2000 MW) by KARNATAKA POWER CORP Ltd at UTTARA KANNADA, KARNATAKA FOR TOR: APPROVED

4. Lower Kopili HEP (120MW) in Karbi Anglong & Dima Hasao, Assam, by Assam Power Generation Cor Ltd. by APGCL at DIMA HASAO,ASSAM for amendment in EC: Approved.

5. Requirement of Cumulative Impact Assessment & Carrying Capacity Study of River Basin for small /Mini/Micro hydro power projects in the country: The EAC after detailed deliberations recommended that:

i. The cumulative impact assessment and carrying capacity studies of the rivers where hydro-electric projects are proposed must be completed in time bound manner.

ii. The Small Hydro Power Projects (<25 MW) of total 200 MW capacity (cumulative) may be permitted in the river basin, based on Hydro-electric potential studies done by the Ministry of Power, Government of India, without insisting on individual river basin study.

iii. A committee consisting members from MOEF&CC, MoJS, MOP, State Govt and expert institutions may be constituted for framing Standard Operational Procedure (SOP) for development of Small Hydro Power Projects in eco-friendly manner.

iv. List of SHPs may be finalized by the State Govt in view of Hydro-electric potential studies done by the Ministry of Power, Government of India keeping in view of any court order/policy w.r.t. construction of SHPs/HEPs in the river basin.

v. The cumulative impact assessment and carrying capacity of the whole river basin will include the finalized list of SHPs along with all other proposed/existing HEPs in that particular river basin. https://parivesh.nic.in/utildoc/24181376_1699967968808.pdf 

Agenda EAC meeting on River Valley Projects to be held on Nov 24 2023:

1. Yadaballi Closed Loop Pumped Storage Project (1200 MW) in 195.82 ha at Village Yadaballi, District Annamayya, Andhra Pradesh by New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh Ltd for TOR

2. Rayavaram Closed Loop Pumped Storage Project (1500 MW) in 469.71 ha at village Rayavaram, Mandal T. Sundupalli, District Annamayya, Andhra Pradesh by New and Renewable Energy Development Corp of Andhra Pradesh Ltd: For TOR https://parivesh.nic.in/utildoc/24414420_1700053991815.pdf

DAMS

Mullaperiyar Dam Sub-committee inspects dam The sub-committee on Mullaperiyar dam inspected the reservoir on Wednesday (Nov. 15) in the backdrop of water level in the dam crossing 131.30 feet. Led by its Chairman, B. Satish, Executive Engineer, Central Water Commission, Cochin, its members, Executive Engineer, Periyar dam Special Divison, J. Sam Erwin, Assistant Engineer, T. Kumar, Executive Engineer, from Kerala, Anil Kumar, and Assistant Engineer, Arun, inspected the main dam, Baby dam, seepage gallery and the shutters. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/sub-committee-inspects-mullaperiyar-dam/article67537218.ece  (15 Nov. 2023)

Tamil Nadu Barrage across the Cauvery to be completed next year About 65% of the construction work on the barrage at Nanjai Pugalur in Karur district is completed; the barrage can store about 0.8 tmcft of water and is designed to discharge about 3.6 lakh cusecs.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Tiruchirapalli/barrage-across-the-cauvery-in-karur-district-to-be-completed-next-year/article67547581.ece  (18 Nov. 2023)

INTERLINKING OF RIVERS

Ken-Betwa Interlinking Amit Bhatnagar says, the Ken Betwa Project will destroy Panna Tiger Reserve and Ken River and much  better alternatives exist in terms of local water systems. https://www.thehindu.com/elections/madhya-pradesh-assembly/in-parched-bundelkhand-chasing-elusive-diamonds-and-sustenance/article67540454.ece  (16 Nov. 2023)

While environmentalists have long pointed to the inherent risks in river-linking, from deforestation and altered fish population to ecological imbalances and changes in monsoon patterns, the more immediate issues seem to be that of land acquisition. here are reports of flawed land surveys and villagers have raised formal objections on undervaluation and have expressed concerns over their loss of livelihoods. https://frontline.thehindu.com/the-nation/human-rights/ken-betwa-link-villagers-in-madhya-pradesh-allege-raw-deal-over-compensation-livelihood-loss/article67535037.ece  (15 Nov. 2023)

RIVERS AS NATIONAL WATERWAYS

Uttar Pradesh Govt to leverage network of rivers for cargo movement The state govt will leverage the network of rivers for low-cost passenger and cargo movement in a bid to achieve merchandise exports of Rs 3 trillion in 2-3 years, officials said. Currently, the Varanasi-Haldia inland waterway, operated by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), is operational in UP. The state is now exploring to develop/redevelop other waterways to facilitate passenger and cargo movement since they offer economical routes for intrastate and interstate transportation with little investment. Meanwhile, the state has said that it would constitute UP Inland Waterways Authority to catalyse the movement of cargo and passengers apart from water sports and tourism. The authority would be headed by the UP transport minister with domain experts as members. The proposal will be tabled before the state legislature in the forthcoming Assembly session beginning November 28. https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/uttar-pradesh-govt-to-leverage-network-of-rivers-for-cargo-movement-123111400743_1.html  (14 Nov. 2023)

URBAN RIVERS

Pune UNRAVELLING THE TRUTH – 2 Pune Municipal Corporation’s false claims and misleading assertions made not only to the citizens but even before the Gov. authorities to get the Environmental Clearance (EC) to the River Front Development project stand exposed with evidence.

This video opens our eyes! Check out how the so called EC given to this project is based upon false, flawed and misleading data intentionally provided by the officers of Pune Corporation! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tPRO3JHID0  (17 Nov. 2023)

RIVERS

Study River-to-sea ecosystem management Human changes to freshwater flows affect marine ecosystems, but such impacts are rarely considered in development plans involving dam building and water abstraction from rivers. Now research shows how approaches that integrate flow management and marine fisheries can improve both freshwater and coastal ecosystem sustainability. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-023-01239-w (2 Nov. 2023)

GANGA SANDRP Blog Nov 2023 Uttarakhand Barkot-Silkyara Tunnel Disaster: Where is rescue plan? More than 72 hours have passed since 40 workers were trapped inside Barkot-Silkyara tunnel in Uttarkashi after a portion of the 4.5 km long, supposedly completed portion of the tunnel collapsed early morning on Sunday, Nov 12 2023. The rescue operation is going on as we write this on Wednesday morning and might take another day before the trapped workers are evacuated safely. While we all pray for the success of rescue operations and safety of the trapped workers; the incident has once again raised several questions over negligence in planning, appraisal & construction, absence of emergency rescue plan, violations of labour laws and environmental norms resulting in this avoidable accident. https://sandrp.in/2023/11/15/nov-2023-uttarakhand-barkot-silkyara-tunnel-disaster-where-is-rescue-plan/   (15 Nov. 2023)

This blog has been republished here. Uttarakhand tunnel disaster: ‘Question mark’ on rescue plan, appraisal, construction. https://www.counterview.net/2023/11/uttarakhand-tunnel-disaster-question.html  (16 Nov. 2023)

Making of a disaster Explaining the persistent manmade disasters in the Himalayas, Himanshu Thakker, coordinator, South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People said a proper study and assessment of risks involved, resources, geology and safety of the project was critical.

“Without proper study, geological surprises will come up. Cost overruns, missing timelines, safety related incidents are bound to happen. There is no culture of due diligence before initiating such projects in our country. Cost is borne by someone else. Safety risks are borne by workers, mostly migrants from other states. Damage to the local environment, residents bear it. Developers, Contractors don’t face any adverse cost impact,” Mr Thakker said.

“The culture of accountability and consequence is absent in India. There is no governance. There are no lessons learnt from previous disasters, which can be used as a benchmark for future projects.” https://www.ndtv.com/opinion/uttarakhand-tunnel-collapse-makings-of-a-disaster-4583067  (17 Nov. 2023)

Dave Petley: -Dave Petley on Uttarkashi Tunnel Collapse on Nov 12: SANDRP has an excellent article from 2019 (in Hindi) that raises concerns about this particular tunnel: The SANDRP report starts: “This report shows adverse effects on the local environment & villagers due to disregard for rules in tunnel construction work on Dharasu Band near Barkot”. https://eos.org/thelandslideblog/uttarakhand-tunnel-1  (14 Nov. 2023)

The problem is that none of the rescue operations have succeeded so far. Bhim Singh Rawat, SANDRP who has been following these operations closely, says that all three significant rescue attempts to cut through the wall of rock blocking the tunnel have failed for different reasons. https://www.newsclick.in/anxiety-grows-around-uttarkashi-tunnel-collapse-rescue-operations (18 Nov. 2023)

The same part of the tunnel, which caved in early Sunday (Nov. 12) morning, had collapsed in 2019 too. However, the scale of the collapse was less severe as compared to the latest one and no worker got trapped. It only led to a delay in construction. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/same-part-of-tunnel-collapsed-in-2019-too/articleshow/105198024.cms  (14 Nov. 2023)

What led to the tunnel collapse Manoj Garnayak, a former project director at L&T and an expert in underground construction, explains:- The failure (the section that has collapsed) is located around 200-300 metres from the mouth of the tunnel. It could have happened due to a loose patch (of rock), which wasn’t visible during the construction. The patch might have consisted of fractured or fragile rock, that is, rock with a lot of joints that may have made it weak. Another reason could be the seepage of water through a loose patch. Water erodes loose rock particles over time, creating a void on the top of the tunnel, which can’t be seen. However, these are only general principles, and we must wait for the results of a comprehensive investigation in this case.

On TBM or DBM: -There are essentially two ways: the drill and blast method (DBM), and by using tunnel-boring machines (TBMs). DBM involves drilling holes into the rock and loading them with explosives. When the explosives are detonated, the rock breaks apart. Building a tunnel with a TBM is more expensive than DBM, but much safer. TBMs bore the rock from the front (using a rotating head) while supporting the excavating tunnel behind the machine by installing precast concrete segments. In India, imported TBMs are used. Each of these machines can cost up to Rs 200 crore.

A TBM can’t be used to drill through very tall mountains. Creating a void through a 1,000-2,000-metre-high mountain by using a TBM leads to rock burst — when a part of the rock suddenly falls due to high stress. TBMs are ideal when the rock cover is up to 400 metres tall. Underground tunnels for the Delhi Metro were dug using a TBM at shallow depth. On the other hand, in places like Himalaya, including Jammu & Kashmir and Uttarakhand, DBM is usually used. https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/to-build-tunnel-rock-must-be-thoroughly-examined-more-time-spent-on-studies-9028352/  (16 Nov. 2023)

लोडर ऑपरेटर मृत्युंजय कुमार ने बताया कि मकिंग का काम चल रहा है। लोडर और एक्सकेवेटर से मलबा हटाने का काम किया जा रहा है। सुरंग का लगभग 30-35 मीटर हिस्सा टूट गया है। पहले धीरे-धीरे मलबा गिरा। जिसे सभी ने हल्के में लिया। फिर अचानक भारी मात्रा में मलबा आया और सुरंग बंद हो गई। इस दौरान 3-4 मजदूरों ने भाग कर अपनी जान बचाई। लेकिन अन्य सुरंग के अंदर ही फंस गई। https://www.amarujala.com/dehradun/uttarkashi-tunnel-collapse-landslide-in-uttarkashi-tunnel-yamunotri-national-highway-many-workers-trapped-2023-11-13?pageId=1  (13 Nov. 2023)

मजदूरों ने बताया कि यहां डंपरों में रखे ह्यूम पाइप का इस्तेमाल संवेदनशील हिस्सों में किया जाता था। पाइप बिछे होते तो मजदूर अंदर नहीं फंसते। वह अब तक पाइपों के जरिए बाहर आ चुके होते। एनएचआईडीसीएल के निवर्तमान महाप्रबंधक कर्नल दीपक पाटिल ने बताया कि सुरंग में ह्यूम पाइप बिछाने का आइडिया उन्हीं का था। इन ह्यूम पाइप को सुरंग के अंदर संवदेनशील और खतरे वाले जगहों पर लाइन से बिछाया जाता था। उन्होंने आशंका जताई कि इस बार शायद किसी को अंदाजा नहीं था कि इस तरह का कुछ होगा। https://www.agniban.com/uttarkashi-tunnel-accident-could-have-been-averted-with-hume-pipe-had-the-pipe-been-laid-the-workers-would-have-come-out-by-now/  (13 Nov. 2023)

Negligence: – No escape route in tunnel, norms flouted, say experts Bernard Gruppe, a company based in Europe, which provided detailed design services to Navayuga construction firm for the Silkyara-Barkot tunnel project, said, “Since the start of tunnel driving, geological conditions proved to be more challenging than predicted in the tender documents.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/experts-no-escape-route-in-tunnel-norms-flouted/articleshow/105301095.cms  (18 Nov. 2023)

According to the Standard Operating Procedure, all tunnels over 3 km long are supposed to have an escape route to rescue people in case there is a calamity. The map proves that such an escape route was also planned for the 4.5 km Silkyara tunnel, but never executed. The teams are now also coming up with alternative plans to rescue the workers. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/big-lapse-escape-route-was-planned-for-uttarakhand-tunnel-but-not-built-4585299  (18 Nov. 2023)

Some details on Navayuga Engineering Company Limited, from which 41 workers remain trapped in the collapsed tunnel that’s part of the Union government’s high-profile yet controversial Char Dham project in Uttarkashi, are worth noting. In mid-2020, Navayuga had also been granted the government’s ambitious Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail link project. On October 26, 2018, a 20-member team of income tax officials from New Delhi zeroed onto Navayuga. They swooped down on multiple offices of the conglomerate across the state, accusing it of violating income tax rules and also laundering money.

Incidentally, news reports have underlined that the Adani group had been eyeing the Krishnapatnam Port Company in Andhra Pradesh for several years. However, it had gone to a company of the Navayuga group during the TDP era. With Jagan Reddy then taking on the firm, Adani tried its luck once more, and successfully acquired it. In July 2020, the Competition Commission of India under the Union Ministry of Finance gave its consent to the Adani Ports and Special Economic Zones to buy out a 75% stake in that port from Navayuga. The remaining 25% was taken over in 2021. https://thewire.in/business/who-was-building-the-uttarakhand-tunnel-that-collapsed  (19 Nov. 2023)

Ravi Chopra ji of PSI: CDP was not a carefully conceived project. Avoiding the EIA was disaster. Required geological investigations were not done. Available information was not carefully studied. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZclvURhnyM  (18 Nov. 2023)

इसरो के पूर्व भूवैज्ञानिक डॉ. नवीन जुयाल सवाल करते हैं कि टनल के अलायनमेंट के समय जियोलॉजिकल और जियो टेक्नीकल जांच की गई होगी। क्या उस जांच रिपोर्ट में यह बात कही गई थी कि सिलक्यारा में घटनास्थल से कुछ किमी उत्तर और उत्तर पश्चिम से होकर मेन सेंट्रल थर्स्ट (एमसीटी) गुजरता है। इसका अर्थ है कि यह क्षेत्र भूकंप की दृष्टि से बेहद संवेदनशील है और इसी वजह से इस क्षेत्र में रगड़न वाली कतरनी चट्टाने मौजूद हैं। ऐसे में दूसरा सवाल यह उठता है कि टनल बनाने वाली कंपनी ने इस पर क्या अमल किया? https://www.downtoearth.org.in/hindistory/development/sustainable-development/uttarkashi-tunnel-accident-geologists-raised-questions-92779  (14 Nov. 2023)

In this debate, geologist SP Sati says that the incident is result of compromised tunnel construction safety protocols. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sreUWZBWtA&t=212s  (14 Nov. 2023)

Adjunct Professor at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, CP Rajendran, pointed out that concerns regarding the delicate nature of the Himalayan region have been repeatedly raised. However, authorities have neglected these concerns. He further emphasizes that environmental assessments conducted prior to project execution are often inadequate. https://www.ndtv.com/video/news/the-last-word/uttarakhand-tunnel-collapse-not-an-isolated-incident-professor-on-uttarakhand-tunnel-collapse-738583  (13 Nov. 2023)

सिल्क्यारा सुरंग: ‘हादसा नहीं अपराध’, हम कब समझेंगे हिमालय को. उत्तरकाशी की सिल्क्यारा सुरंग को भारतमाला परियोजना रिपोर्ट में ‘स्टेट ऑफ आर्ट’ कहा गया जो आज ‘स्टेट ऑफ डिजास्टर बन गया है।  12 मीटर लंबी ये सुरंग 7-8 मीटर लंबी होती तो आपदा की आशंका कम होती।- हेमंत ध्यानी https://hindi.newsclick.in/Silkyara-Tunnel-An-accident-not-a-crime-when-will-we-understand-the-Himalayas  (19 Nov. 2023)

ISSUES IN RESCUE: – Efforts to rescue 40 workers trapped inside a collapsed tunnel in northern India have been expanded to include drilling down from the mountain top. A platform is being prepared to place the drilling machine at the site in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand. Another bid to reach the workers will also be made from the mouth of the tunnel. Three attempts to drill through the debris there have failed so far. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67461090  (19 Nov. 2023)

Drilling operations to create an escape passage for the 41 workers trapped at the Silkyara tunnel collapse site were halted on Sunday (Nov. 19). An American auger machine brought as a replacement had to be stopped on Friday (Nov. 17) due to hitting a hard surface. Gadkari mentioned that horizontal drilling remains the “best option,” and if the machine encounters no obstacles, it may reach the workers in approximately two-and-a-half days. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/drilling-remains-suspended-at-silkyara-tunnel-for-yet-another-day-union-minister-nitin-gadkari-reviews-rescue-operation/articleshow/105335710.cms  (19 Nov. 2023)

The government has undertaken a five-option action plan to rescue 41 workers trapped at Silkyara Tunnel in Uttarkashi, since November 12, Road, Transport and Highways Secretary Anurag Jain said on Sunday (Nov. 19). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HHE88tZYto  (20 Nov. 2023)

Landslide, drill machine glitch hit Uttarkashi rescue operation. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/landslide-drill-machine-glitch-hit-uttarkashi-rescue-operation/articleshow/105248551.cms  (16 Nov. 2023)

NHIDCL engineers, dissatisfied with the sluggish performance of the auger drill, turned to the Indian Air Force for assistance. A 25-ton high-performance drilling machine, the ‘American Augers’, was swiftly airlifted from New Delhi by Indian Airforce’s C1-30 Hercules transport aircraft to the Chinyalisaur airstrip, from where it was transported to the tunnel, on Wednesday afternoon.

The installation of the advanced auger machine, requiring 3-4 hours, commenced on Wednesday evening. Another platform inside the tunnel was prepared to accommodate the high-performance auger machine. Simultaneously, rescue teams initiated the insertion of a six-inch diametre duct pipe through the debris to send additional food packets to the trapped labourers. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/tunnel-rescue-iaf-steps-in-as-drill-machine-fails-thai-cave-rescuers-contacted/articleshow/105243261.cms  (16 Nov. 2023)

This report says the new drilling machine is much slower than expected speed of 5 m per hour. The Uttarakhand govt has decided to review all under construction tunnels in the state. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/uttarkashi-tunnel-collapse-drilling-to-create-passage-for-trapped-workers-to-resume-soon-labourers-safe/article67539296.ece  (16 Nov. 2023)

-VK Singh, Union Minister of state for road transport and highways on Nov. 16 visited the site and said it may take 2-3 more days for the task to be completed. The minister said the rescue could be finished sooner, even as early as Friday (Nov. 17), but the government is keeping a longer timeline in mind to account for unexpected difficulties.

-National Disaster Response Force Director General Atul Karwal said that the thickness of the debris, which was initially 40-50 metres, has gone up to 70 metres because more rubble has fallen.

-Teams involved in the rescue have contacted a company from Thailand. Help is also being taken from the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute for suggestions on how to carry out operations inside the tunnel. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/thai-cave-rescue-experts-consulted-uttarakhand-tunnel-op-may-take-2-3-more-days-4579051  (16 Nov. 2023)

WORKERS PLIGHT: –Workers, family members and others held a protest outside the under-construction tunnel at Silkyara on Wednesday (Nov. 15) over the delay in rescuing labourers trapped inside for the last three days. The protestors vented their anger over the absence of an alternative plan when the machines deployed for drilling the rubble to prepare an escape passage for trapped labourers did not work on Tuesday (Nov. 14) evening. The arrival of a replacement machine from Delhi is being awaited by rescuers for the resumption of the drilling operation. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/uttarakhand/uttarkashi-tunnel-collapse-workers-family-members-hold-protest-over-delay-in-rescuing-trapped-labourers-2771645  (15 Nov. 2023)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-l0f3qki4c  (15 Nov. 2023)

There was also a minor scuffle at the tunnel site between some agitated workers and local officials on Wednesday (Nov. 15). “Authorities should have taken proper safety measures at the start… All of this could have been avoided,” another worker pointed out. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/how-long-will-rescue-operations-take-despair-grips-kin-of-the-trapped/articleshow/105271206.cms  (17 Nov. 2023)

Describing the workers’ condition, Pokhriyal said that some of them have complained of vomiting, headache, anxiety and gastritis. In response to these issues, medications for vomiting and provisions such as dry fruits, chickpeas, and puffed rice were sent in. Laborers also communicated to those outside that they have an over 1 km stretch to walk within the tunnel, and also have access to electricity and water. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/workers-trapped-in-uttarkashi-tunnel-complain-of-headache-nausea-9028259/  (16 Nov. 2023)

Aksash Negi whose father Gabar Singh Negi is among trapped workers; looks at the bevy of rescue workers and equipment that work frenetically at intermittent intervals, stopping ever so often when a new challenge emerges. His patience is running out. “They initially said it would take just 24 hours with the new high-performance auger machine. Now they have a new timeline which is not certain either while my father and the other workers are trapped inside. For how long can we stay brave,” Aakash said. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/for-how-long-can-we-stay-brave-families-of-workers-face-uncertainty-101700245965315.html  (18 Nov. 2023)

Manjeet Lal is one of the 40 workers trapped in the depths of the Silkyara tunnel for the past six days. His father Chaudhary Lal, who lost his elder son at a construction site in Mumbai just over a year ago, is now praying for his younger child. Other families of the trapped workers also express uncertainty about the conditions of their loved ones and are desperate for any concrete progress in the rescue operation. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/elder-son-lost-at-mumbai-building-site-man-prays-for-2nd-son-trapped-in-tunnel/articleshow/105300185.cms  (18 Nov. 2023)

When Vikram Singh spoke to his brother Pushkar, who’s been stuck inside the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarkashi for more than 150 hours after a part of it collapsed on Sunday, the first thing the latter said was: “Bhai, don’t tell Ma that I am one of those stuck here.” The other thing the 25-year-old construction worker whispered, too weak to talk and exhausted from the six days and nights that he has spent in the airless, lightless cave, was, “I’m fine. There are others here… Our mother will be worried if you tell her the truth.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/bhai-dont-tell-ma-that-im-trapped-in-tunnel/articleshow/105299928.cms  (18 Nov. 2023)

Other than five from Odisha, the workers trapped inside include 15 from Jharkhand, eight from Uttar Pradesh, four from Bihar, three from West Bengal, two each from Uttarakhand and Assam, and one from Himachal Pradesh. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/uttarkashi-tunnel-collapse-odisha-jharkhand-workers-trapped-9025796/  (14 Nov. 2023)

Local Belief: – A few days before Diwali, the day when 40 workers were trapped inside the Silkyara-Polgaon tunnel, a temple devoted to a local deity Baukhnaag Devta, considered the region’s guardian, was razed for tunnel work. Villagers now say “the wrath of the deity is the reason for the tunnel collapse”. Villagers believe “unless the deity is pacified, rescue efforts will not yield any results”.Dhanveer Chand Ramola, a 40-year-old resident of Silkyara, said, “Before the project was initiated, a small temple was built near the tunnel entrance. Respecting local beliefs, former officials and workers used to offer prayers there before starting the day’s work. A few days ago, the new management removed the temple, resulting in this mishap.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/wrath-of-gods-local-deity-furious-over-razed-temple/articleshow/105246922.cms  (16 Nov. 2023)

Firecracker bursting new in Kedarnath, can impact glaciers & wildlife: Experts warn. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/urbanisation/firecracker-bursting-new-in-kedarnath-can-impact-glaciers-wildlife-experts-warn-as-videos-emerge-92809  (15 Nov. 2023)

Issues with Other Tunnels: –In September 2023, questions on construction quality of the Tambakhani tunnel on the Gangotri NH in Uttarkashi were raised after seepage occurred inside the tunnel for several days throughout August. Interestingly, the 370-metre-long tunnel was built costing around Rs 13 crore. Since the tunnel’s construction 10 years ago, more than Rs 15 crore has been spent on the lining and drainage work inside the tunnel but huge quantities of water continue to leak from the tunnel walls. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/concerns-mount-over-tambakhani-tunnels-structure/articleshow/103744407.cms  (18 Sept. 2023)

बांध, सड़क और सुरंग के लिए खोदे जा रहे पहाड़ों की वजह से उत्तराखंड और हिमाचल भूस्खलन और आपदा का दंश झेल रहा है. https://www.etvbharat.com/hindi/himachal-pradesh/bharat/himachal-mountains-becoming-weak-due-to-hydropower-project-and-four-lane-construction-uttarkashi-tunnel-accident/na20231114172145553553946  (14 Nov. 2023)

YAMUNA Delhi Floodplain reservoir project inspected Minister Atishi on Wednesday (Nov. 08) inspected the underground water reservoir and floodplain project in Palla and directed officials to conclude the pending work expeditiously to ensure 24×7 supply across the city, a statement said. “The Palla Floodplain Project spans 40 acres, featuring a pond on 26 acres designed to collect floodwater, utilized to enhance groundwater levels in Delhi. Under this project, the pond, spread across 26 acres, recharged 740 million gallons of groundwater in 2022-23.” she said.                            

Under this initiative, a pond spanning 26 acres was created to collect floodwater. This water is being utilized to augment the groundwater in the capital, she stated. In line with this, the government plans to install 200 tubewells in the area. Currently, 60 tube wells have been successfully installed, and the rest will be set up soon. The water produced from here will contribute to fulfilling the demand for water in various parts of the city, ensuring clean water reaches every needy individual, the minister stated.

“The Kejriwal government is setting up an 8 MGD MBR in Palla, nearly ready for operation. Once operational, this reservoir, at its full capacity, will recharge approximately five times a day, supplying 40 MGD of water. The goal of the Delhi government is to extend this water supply to areas in the city facing water scarcity,” she added. https://www.outlookindia.com/national/atishi-inspects-underground-water-reservoir-and-floodplain-project-in-palla-news-330884  (15 Nov. 2023)

Devotees celebrating Chhath festival in polluted Yamuna in Delhi. Image credit: Vijay Pandey, Photojournalist. https://x.com/pandeyvij9/status/1726436060652241213?s=20  (20 Nov. 2023)

Greater Noida Untreated industrial effluents are regularly being discharged in Hindon river.  (Video, 09 Nov. 2023) https://fb.watch/opz0duYXJK/

RIVERS BIODIVERSITY

Bihar Fascinating: Peeyush Sekhsaria writes about Patna’s Ganga Dolphin boatman Rajendra Sahni (09852235261). https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/blink/takeaway/The-boatman%E2%80%99s-calling/article20755295.ece  (18 April 2014)

Uttar Pradesh Govt to sensitise people living about dolphins State govt on Sunday (Nov. 05) directed the district administration of districts which are located at the bank of Ganges river to aware people living on the banks about the need for the conservation and safety of Gangetic dolphins in a bid to increase their numbers. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/up-to-sensitise-people-living-on-banks-of-ganges-about-conservation-of-dolphins/article67501294.ece  (06 Nov. 2023)

SAND MINING

Bihar Cop mowed down by sand mafia A Bihar sub-inspector (SI) was mowed down Tuesday (Nov. 14) by a tractor ferrying illegally mined sand in Jamui district, extending a pattern of such attacks on law-enforcers by the sand mafia. Prabhat Ranjan (28) was declared dead after being rushed to hospital. A home guard jawan, Rajesh Kumar Sao, was also hit by the tractor in Garhi police station area and is now under treatment. Ranjan was a 2018-batch SI and a native of Vaishali district.

Jamui SP Shaurya Suman said police had a tip-off about illegal sand mining in Chandwara area, around 5km from the Garhi police station where Ranjan was assistant SHO. Ranjan and Sao were out checking such activities when they spotted the tractor. “They tried to stop the tractor. However, the driver, Krishna Ravidas, ran the vehicle over them and fled. The tractor has been seized and a man accompanying the driver arrested,” the SP said. According to the SP, the arrested person, Mithilesh Thakur, is a resident of neighbouring Nawada district. “The driver, who also hails from Nawada, and the owner of the tractor are absconding. A special team has been formed to arrest them,” Suman said.

Several such murderous attacks by the sand mafia have been reported in Bihar over the past few months, mostly from Patna, Bhojpur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Saran and Vaishali districts. In April this year, three officers — including two women inspectors of the mines and geology department — were targeted by the mafia during a drive against them at Bihta, near Patna. Soon after, the department decided to train its 90 inspectors, including around 30 women officers, in countering such attacks, an official said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/bihar-cop-mowed-down-by-sand-mafia-tractor-mantri-says-such-cases-occur-in-other-states-too/articleshow/105217745.cms  (15 Nov. 2023)

Bihar home department last month announced cash awards for providing information on illegal sand mining, bootlegging, and hate messages on social media and cyber frauds leading to the arrests of culprits. “Police will reward those who help catch criminals involved in illegal sand-mining, bootleggers, cyber criminals and individuals/organizations who use social media platforms to spread hate and intolerance”, says the circular. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/patna-news/bihar-cop-mowed-down-by-tractor-illegally-carrying-sand-in-jamui-police-101699945298592.html  (14 Nov. 2023)

Himachal Pradesh A state govt interim report on Himachal floods in SW Monsoon 2023 says that besides climate change, mining in riverbeds have also contributed. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/unscientific-mining-caused-natural-calamity-panel-report-563318  (18 Nov. 2023)

68 out of 131 stone crushers in Beas Basin did not have permission: Report Multi Sector Committee in its interim report has highlighted that out of 131 stone crushers set up in the Beas river basin, 68 did not have the necessary permission while seven were affected by the floods, few anomalies were found in six and only 50 operators were found to have the valid permits, the spokesperson said. The committee was constituted after the disaster wreaked havoc in Himachal during monsoons triggering flash floods and massive landslides claiming 509 lives in rain-related incidents and road accidents, a spokesperson of the state government said.

The spokesperson said that depending on the conditions, the committee has recommended granting permission to operate 50 stone crushers which have received necessary permission with certain mandatory guidelines. These crushers can be operated for 12 hours from 6 am to 6 pm. The committee also recommended installation of CCTV cameras in all the stone crushers which will be monitored by the State Pollution Control Board and Mining Department. If any illegal mining is found within 500 metre radius of the stone crushers, the local authority should report it in writing, otherwise action should be taken against the owner of the stone crusher.

Along with the climatic change, the unscientific and illegal mining along the river beds are responsible for the natural calamity in the state causing huge damage to life and property, the committee, in its interim report submitted to the government said. Due to excessive muck dumping in the Beas river and on its banks, the flash floods caused enormous damage to life and both the public and the private property, the report said. It also mentioned that the environmental balance of the Beas river basin is under great pressure, which needs to be studied scientifically and has also stressed on suggesting short, medium and long term measures for the operation of stone crushers. https://theprint.in/india/68-out-of-131-stone-crushers-in-beas-basin-did-not-have-permission-says-report/1849551/  (18 Nov. 2023)

Due to excessive muck dumping in the Beas and on its banks, the flash floods caused enormous damage to life and both the public and the private property, the report said. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/himachal-flood-probe-finds-68-of-131-stone-crushers-in-beas-basin-illegal-101700290731474.html  (18 Nov. 2023)

Haryana NGT to govt: No mining in Ambala without approval NGT has directed the Haryana government not to begin mining in Ambala without its approval. The state mining department recently granted private firms permission to mine 71 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of minerals in the district. The District Survey Report (DSR) prepared by state, however, permits mining of only 38.3 lakh MT of minerals. The NGT order, which was issued recently, comes after Balbir Sandhu, an Ambala resident, filed a petition in the tribunal. Arguing on his behalf, advocate Gaurav Kumar Bansal apprised the NGT that the mining department has also allowed firms to carry out mining in the Trilokpur river, which is nowhere mentioned in the DSR.

“As per the DSR of Ambala, the total area where mining can be done is around 10.1 hectares. But in the present case, Haryana has authorised firms to extract mineable minerals in around 180 hectares, which far exceeds the identified area where mining is permitted,” said Bansal. The counsel for the state, meanwhile, said no environment clearance (EC) has been issued and no mining activity has started till now. The mining firms and Haryana government have been given three weeks’ time to file an objection.

“It has been submitted by the learned counsel that the application for EC is under process. Having regard to the circumstances of the case and considering the question of not adhering the DSR, we direct that the respondents No. 8 to 10 will not start the mining activity without the leave of this Tribunal,” said the order by chairperson Prakash Shrivastava, judicial member Sudhir Agarwal, and expert member Dr A Senthil Vel. The next hearing in this matter is on January 15. In October 18, a joint committee of officials from Haryana and Himachal Pradesh found unauthorised sand mining along and inside the river in the Kala Amb area of Ambala. The committee was investigating the area after NGT sought a report of pollution in the Markanda river during a hearing on July 18. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/dont-begin-mining-ops-in-ambala-without-nod/articleshow/105303791.cms  (18 Nov. 2023)

Despite NGT ban sand miners have built kilometers long illegal bunds in Yamuna river bed in Jathlana and Gumthala areas of Yamuna Nagar district to divert river’s natural flowing course and causing riverbank erosion. The police check post set up there and government officials appointed to check this, have been deliberately ignoring the violations. (Video by Waryam Singh RTI Activist and Adocate)   https://fb.watch/ooa4g5moDI/  (13 Nov. 2023)

Uttar Pradesh बांदा। पट्टे की आड़ में केन और यमुना नदी में मौरंग का अवैध खनन किया जा रहा है। खनन अधिकारी और एसडीएम ने दो खदानों में छापा मारा। अधिकारियों को निर्धारित पट्टा सीमा के अलावा 5,507 घन मीटर मौरंग का अवैध खनन मिला। इस पर अधिकारियों ने पट्टाधारकों पर 50 लाख 37 हजार 300 रुपये का जुर्माना किया है। https://www.amarujala.com/uttar-pradesh/banda/illegal-mining-of-5507-cubic-meters-of-sand-caught-in-two-mines-banda-news-c-212-1-sknp1008-4513-2023-11-17  (17 Nov. 2023)

Andhra Pradesh Munneru drownings due to illegal sand mining? Unscientific, illegal sand mining in the Munneru rivulet a tributary of Krishna in Vijayawada, has resulted in the deaths of several people who ventured into the water for bathing or swimming. The river bed has been damaged due to sand mining, creating deep pools that trap unsuspecting individuals. In the last six months alone seven people have drowned near Keesara, a particularly dangerous area.

Illegal and unscientific mining of sand in Munneru rivulet, a tributary of the Krishna, has been unwittingly claiming the lives of youngsters, who venture into the water body for a bath or swim. Apart from Krishna, Munneru is one of the important rivulets that serve the Prakasam barrage in Vijayawada.

Munneru gained notoriety in November 2005 when 14 students from Vijayawada on a picnic drowned in the river. Since then, the river has been claiming lives quite often. While carelessness is one of the reasons, environment activists argue that unscientific exploitation of sand has led to creation of deep pools on the riverbed, trapping anyone who are novice to the riverine terrain near Keesara.

Over the years, the Munneru at Keesara has become notorious for its unsuspecting death traps. A little misadventure may lead to drowning in the river. The river bed at Keerasa has been damaged due to alleged illegal sand mining. At many places the riverbed suddenly turns deep due to over exploitation of sand, observe environment activists.

Official statistics show that seven people drowned in the river near Keesara in the last six months. The death of three youths in Munneru on Monday (Nov. 13) only highlighted the poor safety at some of the ghats. As many as 18 drowning cases were registered since January 1, 2022 in the region. Of them, a majority of the incidents were reported in the Munneru.

While five boys drowned at Chandarlapadu on January 11, 2022, two drowned at Gani Atkuru on April 15 this year. A VRO, Shaik Imran, drowned at Keesara on October 1. One Kongara Nagaraju died in Munneru on October 23. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/munneru-drownings-due-to-illegal-sand-mining/articleshow/105221111.cms  (15 Nov. 2023)

Tamil Nadu CBI summons DMK MP in illegal sand mining cases A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in Chennai has summoned Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister K Ponmudy’s son and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP, Gautham Sigamani, and five other people on November 24 in connection with irregularities in the mining and sale of sand in the state. According to sources, the move comes days after the financial probe agency Enforcement Directorate investigated the illegal sand mining allegations that caused a loss of Rs 28 crore to the government exchequer. The summon has been issued to Gowthama Sigamani, Raju, Mahendran, Jayachandran, Santhanam, and Gopinath.

In July, the ED had frozen a fixed deposit worth Rs 41.9 crore during searches carried out at the premises of Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister K Ponmudy. The ED seized Rs 81.7 lakh in cash and foreign currency to the tune of Rs 13 lakh during the searches held in seven locations linked to Ponmudy and his son Gowtham Sigamani on Monday in connection with an illegal sand mining case. The case relates to the alleged issuance of red sand mining licenses at five locations illegally by Ponmudy when he was the Minister for Mines when the DMK government was in power in 2006 and 2011. The licences were issued in the names of his son, relatives, and benami holders. https://www.indiatoday.in/law/story/cbi-court-summons-dmk-mp-gautham-sigamani-in-illegal-sand-mining-cases-2459347-2023-11-07  (07 Nov. 2023)

WETLANDS, LAKES, WATER BODIES

Rajasthan सांभर झील संरक्षण: तीन महीने के भीतर कोर व बफर क्षेत्रों को परिभाषित करने का निर्देश एनजीटी ने नौ नवंबर 2023 को सांभर झील के संरक्षण के लिए कई दिशानिर्देश जारी किए हैं  उनके तहत राजस्थान पर्यावरण विभाग के अतिरिक्त मुख्य/प्रमुख सचिव को तीन महीने के भीतर सांभर झील का सीमांकन करने के साथ इसके कोर और बफर क्षेत्रों को परिभाषित करने का निर्देश दिया है। एनजीटी ने राजस्व विभाग के अतिरिक्त मुख्य/प्रमुख सचिव के साथ-साथ नागौर, अजमेर और जयपुर जिलों के कलेक्टरों को सौंपे गए कार्य को समय पर पूरा करने के लिए पर्यावरण विभाग के साथ सहयोग और समन्वय करने का भी निर्देश दिया है।

कोर्ट ने राज्य आद्रभूमि प्राधिकरण को संबंधित अधिकारियों के साथ मिलकर सांभर झील के लिए एकीकृत पर्यावरण प्रबंधन योजना (आईईएमपी) को अंतिम रूप देने का भी निर्देश दिया है। उन्हें एक महीने के भीतर इस योजना को मंजूरी के लिए राष्ट्रीय वेटलैंड समिति को प्रस्तुत करना आवश्यक है। आईईएमपी में आर्द्रभूमि के निकट एक ‘हाइड्रोबायोलॉजिकल मॉनिटरिंग स्टेशन’ स्थापित करने का प्रस्ताव शामिल होना चाहिए। इसके अतिरिक्त, राजस्थान राज्य प्रदूषण नियंत्रण बोर्ड (आरएसपीसीबी) को आर्द्रभूमि में छोड़े जा रहे दूषित पानी को रोकने का काम सौंपा गया है। वो दोषी पाए जाने पर किसी भी स्थानीय निकाय, व्यक्ति या औद्योगिक इकाई के खिलाफ आवश्यक कार्रवाई कर सकता है।

एनजीटी ने सांभर झील वेटलैंड साइट की जांच के लिए एक उच्चस्तरीय समिति गठित करने का भी निर्देश दिया है। यह समिति झील से पानी के अवैध दोहन के साथ व्यक्तियों या कंपनियों द्वारा अवैध रूप से लगाए जा रहे बोरवेल और वेटलैंड नियम, 2017 के होते उल्लंघन पर अपनी रिपोर्ट कोर्ट को सौंपेगी। इस समिति का काम सांभर झील की पारिस्थितिकी को नुकसान पहुंचाने वाली गतिविधियों की पहचान करना और उल्लंघन के लिए जिम्मेदार लोगों को चिह्नित करना है।

भू-विज्ञानी और ‘एनवायरमेंटल जियोमॉर्फोलॉजी एंड मैनेजमेंट ऑफ सांभर लेक वेटलैंड’नामक किताब लिखने वाले डॉक्टर जीतेन्द्र शर्मा का कहना है कि ‘झील तक आने वाली नदियों के रास्ते में सैंकड़ों अतिक्रमण बीते 20 साल में हुए हैं। सरकारों ने कृषि भूमि के लिए जमीन दे दी और सिंचाई के लिए कई एनिकट भी बना दिए। मसलन जहां पहले बारिश का 80 से 90 फीसदी पानी झील में आता था वो अब घटकर 30 फीसदी ही रह गया है। इस पानी को भी सांभर साल्ट लिमिटेड और निजी उत्पादक नमक बनाने के लिए लिफ्ट कर लेते हैं। ऐसे में पक्षियों के रहने लायक पानी झील में छोड़ा ही नहीं जा रहा।

उनका आगे कहना है कि  ‘सांभर को करीब 30 साल पहले रामसर साइट घोषित किया था, लेकिन वेटलैंड भूमि विविधता और पारिस्थितिकी स्थिति का जिस तरह से ख्याल रखा जाना चाहिए था, उस पर सांभर खरी नहीं उतरती।’ राजस्थान सरकार ने 2019 में सांभर झील के प्रबंधन के लिए एक स्टेंडिंग कमेटी का गठन किया था। वहीं 26 नवंबर 2019 को वन विभाग ने जयपुर जिला एनवायरमेंट कमेटी को सांभर झील की हर रोज निगरानी की जिम्मेवारी सौंपी थी। लेकिन स्थिति में अब ही कोई खास सुधार नहीं आया है। https://www.downtoearth.org.in/hindistory/water/water-conservation/sambhar-lake-conservation-instructions-to-define-core-and-buffer-areas-within-three-months-92870  (18 Nov. 2023)

Study A sustainable solution to manage ecosystem health of wetlands in urban and peri-urban areas of Lucknow district, India using geospatial techniques and community based pragmatic approach: –The results revealed that the overall health of the wetlands has deteriorated drastically in these peri-urban areas owing to anthropogenic activities.

The wetland ecosystem’s health is significantly correlated with land transformation. The study recommended community participation, and involvement of local authorities in storing rainwater, constructing culverts and channels, and interlinking them with wetlands for sustainable conservation and effective management of the wetland ecosystem. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0959652623018048?via%3Dihub  (15 Aug 2023) This study assessed the ecosystem health of urban and peri-urban wetlands of Lucknow district in India and recommended a sustainable solution for their management.  https://www.indiawaterportal.org/articles/prioritise-conserving-peri-urban-wetlands (11 Nov 2023)

Kerala Court orders further probe into paddy land reclamation by late Minister The controversy over reclamation of paddy land by the former Minister Thomas Chandy is refusing to die down even after his death with a vigilance court summarily rejecting the request to treat the case as ‘a mistake of fact’. In a recent order, M.Manoj, Enquiry Commissioner and Special Judge, has refused to accept a prayer in this regard by the investigation officer, Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau and returned the final report with a direction to conduct further investigation. The court also directed to submit the final report within four months. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/wetland-conversion-court-refuses-to-treat-case-against-late-minister-as-mistake-of-fact-orders-further-probe/article67532359.ece  (14 Nov.2023)

Maharashtra CRZ important for Mumbai’s well-being Despite their economic importance and ecological wealth, India’s coastal and marine zones face threats to their survival. Over the years, around 34% of mangroves were lost between 1950 and 2000, while coral areas continue to be vulnerable. Marine fish stocks are dwindling, ornamental fish species are disappearing, and sea cucumbers are at risk. Such rapid depletion threatens the livelihoods, health, and well-being of coastal communities, in the absence of alternative livelihood opportunities. This not only poses a threat to the environment but also potentially impacts flood mitigation. https://mumbai.citizenmatters.in/mumbai-crz-slum-redevelopment-58621 (16 Nov 2023)

WATER OPTIONS

World Toilet Day The solution to the sanitation crisis is decentralisation Tikender Singh Panwar ‘The solution to pollution is dilution’, became the hallmark of urban planning that evolved after the plague in Europe in the 1850s, and continues to be the guiding force. Urban planning evolved as a fallout of the accidents of the health hazards owing to excessive industrialisation, and ‘no planning at all’. For diluting 100 cc of urine, flushing five litres of water cannot be the solution at the current conjuncture when the world is facing an acute shortage of water.

The CPCB in 2022 reported about the gaps existing in treatment capacity within different cities based on their population size and tier. In Class I cities, with a population exceeding 1 million, the treatment capacity gap stands at approximately 67 per cent. Similarly, in Class II towns, with a population range of 50,000 to 100,000, the treatment capacity gap is notably higher, at around 95 % — highlighting a significant disparity. Hence, World Toilet Day is not just about individuals constructing toilets, it is about the entire ecosystem that exists in urban centres.

A news report suggested that a survey in 2021 “found that more than 45 per cent of India’s population still defecates in the open. The main reason for this is non-maintenance of built toilets in combination with usage of substandard materials for construction.” It also said that sanitation workers in 23 states identified 70,942 single pit latrines in localities which have not been opened even once in the last seven years.

As per a report from the CPCB (2009-10), sanitation services have largely been ignored and only 19 per cent of the sewage generated is treated. While wastewater infrastructure is gradually improving, it has essentially focussed on centralised approaches in large cities — leaving lots of small pockets unserved. If just 19 per cent of the total faecal sludge enters STPs, where is the remaining 81 per cent going? Disturbing as it is, that 81 per cent is entering the ecosystem and contaminating the aquifers and water catchment areas, leading to massive contamination.

While writing the vision document for Leh, this author was confronted with a peculiar situation. Nearly 95 per cent of the ground water in Leh is contaminated because of the shift in urban planning from dry latrines to flush toilets, with no means to treat the waste.

Urban planning models are top down and inherently flawed. No wonder that due to the push from global technological giants, the city sanitation plans are designed in such a manner where the STPs are offered as a solution for managing toilet waste rather than decentralised solutions. A common ridicule among urban planners is that the cities sanitation designs are such where an average worker travels eight kilometres for work, whereas their faecal matter travels almost 18 kilometres on an average from the toilet to the STPs. One can imagine the fate of such STPs!

The solution is not adding more water to the toilet, rather treating faecal matter in a decentralised manner. One of the ways could be small faecal sludge treatment plants. In addition, local governments must be empowered and the water and waste utility should be under their control, instead of parastatals running them. The STPs, instead of privatising them, should be run by the city governments.

Last, but the most important is the people who are engaged in the city sanitation process. Rather than privatising and outsourcing their services, they must be embedded in the city development process. World Toilet Day is for accelerating the pace towards sustainable sanitation practises, where nature, people, and their health are prioritised; profitmaking must not be the focus here. https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/world-toilet-day-the-solution-to-the-sanitation-crisis-is-decentralisation-2776196  (18 Nov. 2023)

WTD 2023: Date, history and significance Every year, World Toilet Day is celebrated on November 19. In 2001, the NGO World Toilet Organisation, founded by philanthropist Jack Sim in Singapore declared November 19 as World Toilet Day – the world toilet was consciously chosen instead of sanitation for better public approach, relevance and easier public messaging. The NGO pushed for public recognition and acknowledgement of World Toilet Day and in 2007, the Sustainable Sanitation Alliance started actively supporting World Toilet Day as well. World Toilet Day became a phenomenon in 2010 when the United Nations declared human right to water and sanitation as a basic human right. https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/world-toilet-day-2023-date-history-and-significance-101700210663940.html  (17 Nov. 2023)

Maharashtra Village overcomes its water woes through collective action While the Konambe dam, built in 1971 existed on the Dev River in the village, the dam’s capacity had reduced due to accumulation of silt. The desilting activities conducted by villagers improved water availability  and produced around 20,000 cubic metres of soil, which was spread across 500 acres of fallow land and reclaimed for cultivation. Social mobilisation played an important role in these efforts. https://www.indiawaterportal.org/articles/maharashtra-village-overcomes-its-water-woes-through-collective-action  (16 Nov. 2023)

GROUNDWATER

Punjab Groundwater conservation law blamed for Delhi’s air pollution The Supreme Court Tuesday (Nov. 07) advised the state govt to reconsider Punjab Preservation of Subsoil Water Act, 2009 aimed at conserving groundwater, which was resulting in stubble-burning and increased air pollution in the north of India, especially the Delhi and NCR. The law prohibits sowing of paddy seeds before 10 May every year and transplantation before 10 June, allowing for the crop to be sown only during the monsoon months.

As a result, paddy is sown in June-July (monsoon months) and harvested in October-November, while wheat is sown in November-December and harvested in April-May. Owing to this restricted cultivation period that farmers are left with less time to prepare their fields for the wheat crop after the paddy has been harvested, and resort to burning crop residue, adding to the air pollution. The apex court also called for the substitution of paddy with other crops over concerns that paddy cultivation was affecting the groundwater table of the state.

The link between groundwater conservation and air pollution had also been flagged in a study titled ‘Tradeoffs Between Groundwater Conservation and Air Pollution From Agricultural Fires in Northwest India’, published in Nature Sustainability in 2019, and was later confirmed by researchers at Dehradun-based Indian Institute of Remote Sensing in a 2022 study published in Scientific Reports. https://theprint.in/theprint-essential/what-is-the-punjab-groundwater-conservation-law-why-its-being-blamed-for-delhis-air-pollution/1838049/  (09 Nov. 2023)

URBAN WATER

Bengaluru Heavy metals have contaminated soil, groundwater of Bengaluru, KSPCB report says At least six areas in Bengaluru – Goripalya, Peenya Industrial area, Lalbagh Lake, Hebbal Lake, Agara Lake, and Begur lake – have high concentrations of heavy metals – lead, copper, chromium, magnesium – a report submitted by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said. The report is an outcome of soil, surface water, and groundwater analysis conducted by KSPCB recently. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/heavy-on-metal/articleshow/105271274.cms  (17 Nov. 2023)

Chennai Residents pay big bucks for water With the metro water authorities now supplying water to corporation wards 84 and 86 just once a week, the residents are forced to shell out hefty sums to private suppliers every month. Earlier, water was supplied regularly to residents in Pattaravakkam, Periyar Nagar and Korattur from the overhead tank in Pattaravakkam.

However, the supply has been reduced to just once or twice a week now, said D Kamala, a resident of Pattaravakkam. The residents also alleged that even the little water that is finally supplied to them contains sewage. Repeated petitions to resolve the issue have gone in vain, said Ward 84 councillor J John. Meanwhile, officials with the metro water board maintained that the irregular supply was only a temporary issue and would be resolved at the earliest. https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2023/nov/17/chennai-residents-pay-big-bucks-for-water-as-corpn-supply-limited-to-2-days-a-week-2633585.html  (17 Nov. 2023)

Pune While citizens face severe water crouch, for tanker mafias its raining money.

Noida, Ghaziabad 3^rd treatment plant ready to supply Ganga water The UP Jal Nigam has readied a third Ganga water treatment plant in Pratap Vihar in order to supply 37.5 cusecs of water to Noida and 12.5 cusecs to Siddharth Vihar in Ghaziabad, officials of the jal nigam said on Friday (Nov. 17). The plant is ready to supply water, after completing testing, but some more work is pending and has to be completed by Noida authority and UP irrigation department, said officials. This is the third plant to be constructed in Pratap Vihar in Ghaziabad and will supply treated Ganga water to Noida sectors 133, 134, 122 and 135, among others, and also to Siddharth Vihar township in Ghaziabad. It is estimated that the plant will benefit an estimated 600,000 to 700,000 population in the two cities. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/noida-news/third-treatment-plant-ready-to-supply-ganga-water-to-noida-ghaziabad-101700242122627.html  (17 Nov. 2023)

WATER POLLUTION

Uttar Pradesh प्रदूषण नियंत्रण बोर्ड के मुख्य पर्यावरण अधिकारी सस्‍पेंड उत्तर प्रदेश प्रदूषण नियंत्रण बोर्ड के मुख्य पर्यावरण अधिकारी वृत्त-एक, विवेक राय को निलंबित कर दिया गया है। आरोप है कि उन्होंने अपने अधिकार क्षेत्र से बाहर जाकर वृत्त-चार में आने वाले उद्योग को जल-वायु की सहमति एवं बायो मेडिकल वेस्ट प्राधिकार पत्र दे दिया। इस मामले में एनजीटी ने भी सख्त टिप्पणी की थी। इसी के बाद बोर्ड के सदस्य सचिव अजय कुमार शर्मा ने विवेक राय को निलंबित कर दिया है। इस मामले की जांच पर्यावरण, वन एवं जलवायु परिवर्तन विभाग के विशेष सचिव डॉ. चन्द्र भूषण को सौंपी गई है। https://www.jagran.com/uttar-pradesh/lucknow-city-up-pollution-control-board-chief-environment-officer-vivek-rai-suspended-23554640.html  (12 Oct. 2023)  हाईकोर्ट में उनके खिलाफ दाखिल जनहित याचिका में 70 मामलों में भ्रष्टाचार के आरोप लगाए गए। हाईकोर्ट ने सुनवाई के बाद आदेश दिया कि सिर्फ एक मामले में कार्रवाई पर्याप्त नहीं है बल्कि विवेक के खिलाफ भ्रष्टाचार के सभी मामलों की एक साथ जांच की जाए। https://newsattackindia.com/70-cases-of-corruption-against-chief-environment-officer-high-court-orders-investigation/  (18 Oct. 2023)

NGT directs winding up Oversight Committee The NGT Nov. 10, 2023 directed that the three-tier monitoring mechanism and accountability committee set up by the state govt should be entrusted with the monitoring of directions issued by the courts and NGT. Thus, in these circumstances, it would not be proper to continue the Oversight Committee appointed by the tribunal.  The court also directed that the district-level committees should submit their monthly report by the last date of each month to the state-level committee concerned and the state-level committee will submit a quarterly monitoring / compliance report to the chief secretary.

The chief secretary of UP will analyse and compile the reports within one month of their receipt in his office and will take requisite action to ensure full compliance. The chief secretary would also file the action taken report every six months before the registrar general of NGT. The time limit of September 1, 2023 fixed for smooth transition of work of the Oversight Committee to the three-tier mechanism set up by Uttar Pradesh in the meeting of the chief secretary with the chairman and members of the Oversight Committee on June 29, 2023 is already over.

The NGT directed that henceforth, “the three-tier mechanism, the committees set up therein as also the Accountability Committee set up will be responsible for compliance of various directions of the NGT and the courts and implementation of projects, unless otherwise directed in any particular matter”.

If any report is pending before the Oversight Committee, the same may be submitted to the courts / tribunal concerned by the committee on or before November 30, 2023. Accordingly, the Oversight Committee is wound up and the Oversight Committee will transfer all the immovable and movables received by it from the state of UP / UPPCB for its functioning to the state / UPPCB by November 30, 2023. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/governance/daily-court-digest-major-environment-orders-november-15-2023–92866  (17 Nov. 2023)  https://www.downtoearth.org.in/hindistory/pollution/air-pollution/know-why-ngt-directed-to-dissolve-the-oversight-committee-of-uttar-pradesh-92818  (16 Nov. 2023)

Gujarat 4 migrant workers die while cleaning septic tank in Surat  In a tragic incident at a textile dyeing and printing facility in Baleshwar village on the Palsana-Kadodara route in Surat district, four migrant labourers from Bihar lost their lives due to asphyxiation while cleaning a septic tank on Wednesday (Nov. 15). The four workers descended into a 25-foot-deep sewage tank, where the tragedy unfolded.

According to reports, the company had contracted the cleaning of eight septic tanks, intending to use machinery. However, a motor failure prompted the first worker to dive into the tank. When there was no response, the subsequent workers entered the tank, leading to their tragic deaths due to suffocation. Initially deemed an accidental case, the police stated that if negligence or carelessness is discovered during the inquiry, they would pursue a case of criminal negligence and investigate accordingly. https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2023/nov/16/4-migrant-workers-die-while-cleaning-septic-tank-in-surat-2633333.html  (16 Nov. 2023) Manual scavenging has been outlawed in the country since 2013. As many as 339 people have died while cleaning sewers and septic tanks in India in the last five years, according to government data. https://thewire.in/caste/four-migrant-workers-from-bihar-die-while-cleaning-septic-tank-in-surat  (16 Nov. 2023)

WATER

Karnataka Water audit committee to study availability of water resources Following a sharp dip in ground water table across the state, a water audit committee will be formed for the analysis and mapping of all water resources in the state and for the rejuvenation of the water resources and their scientific utilisation. The process might take a year to complete, said Minister for Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Priyank Kharge on Nov. 15. He stated that the water audit committee will comprise experts from ISRO, Karnataka State Remote Sensing Applications Centre (KSRSAC), irrigation and other related fields. “After the study, a report will be submitted by the committee to the government.” https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/water-audit-committee-to-study-availability-of-water-resources-in-state-2772834  (16 Nov. 2023)

Odisha Entries sought for National Water Awards The water resources department has asked educational institutes, non-government organisations and individuals to send nominations for the 5th National Water Awards, to be conferred for adopting innovative methods in water conservation. Agencies have been asked to send entries to the Rastriya Puraskar portal by December 15, the last date for filing nominations. Awards will be conferred in 10 categories such as best state, best district, best village, best urban local body, best school or college, best institution, best industry, best civil society, best water user association and best individual for excellence. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/entries-sought-for-national-water-awards/articleshow/105222071.cms  (15 Nov. 2023)

MONSOON

Study Evaluation of global precipitation products for meteorological drought assessment with respect to IMD station datasets over India Abstract: -In-situ precipitation data is the most reliable data for the drought assessment. However, gridded datasets are commonly used due to limited availability of station data.

However, the gridded data may exhibit bias compared to station data. The present study has been undertaken to examine the performance of gridded datasets from global precipitation products (gauge-interpolated, merged from various sources, re-analysis and satellite products) for the assessment of meteorological drought with reference to station datasets of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) from 2000 to 2019 at six drought zones over India. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S016980952300501X?dgcid=author  (Jan. 2024)

Study Characterization of Microplastics in Clouds over Eastern China Abstract:- Airborne microplastics (MPs) have the potential to travel a long distance and undergo several cloud processes through atmospheric transport. However, little is known about the interactions between MPs and clouds. Here, we present field evidence for the presence of abundant and various MPs in cloudwater samples collected at Mt. Tai (1545 m asl.) in eastern China, with an average concentration of 463 MP L–1 in cloudwater, i.e., 0.21 MP m–3 in air. The cloud MPs had a broad size range of 8–1542 μm with 60% being smaller than 100 μm and dominant shapes of fragments with diverse polymers and darker colors.

The concentrations of MPs were influenced by cloud liquid water content, source regions, and trajectory height, while the shapes and sizes appeared to be associated with long-range transport or localized sources. The roughened surface of cloud MPs indicated photochemical aging, which likely increased their adsorption capability for toxic metals (e.g., Pb, Hg) as confirmed by laboratory photoaging and adsorption simulations in ambient air, ultrapure water, and cloudwater. More research is needed to understand microplastic–cloud interactions and the potential impacts on atmospheric metal cycles and cloud formation. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.estlett.3c00729  (15 Nov. 2023) Alarming Levels of Microplastics in Our Clouds Could Affect Rain, Alter the Planet’s Weather Patterns https://weather.com/en-IN/india/pollution/news/2023-11-16-microplastics-in-clouds-could-affect-rain-alter-weather-pattern  (15 Nov. 2023)

LANDSLIDES

Himachal Pradesh किन्नौर जिले के नाथपा में सोमवार (Nov. 13) शाम सवा पांच बजे पहाड़ी से भारी भूस्खलन और बड़े-बड़े पत्थर गिरने का सिलिसिला शुरू हो गया, जो मंगलवार (Nov. 14) को भी जारी रहा, जिससे सड़क का करीब 200 मीटर हिस्सा मलबे में दब गया है और सामरिक महत्व का नेशनल हाईवे-5 फिर से बंद हो गया है। एनएच बाधित होने के कारण दोनों ओर वाहनों की लंबी कतारें लगी रहीं और कल्पा, निचार और पूह सहित काजा और लाहौल स्पीति की ओर छोटे और बड़े वाहनों की आवाजाही पूरी तरह से ठप पड़ी हुई है। https://www.amarujala.com/shimla/landslide-near-nathpa-national-highway-five-blocked-in-kinnaur-himachal-pradesh-2023-11-14  (14 Nov. 2023)

Uttarakhand Landslide mitigation centre draws flak The state cabinet recently gave approval to set up a Landslide Mitigation and Management Centre in the state, claimed to be the first-of-its-kind in the country. To be set up as an autonomous body under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, the centre will not only identify chronic landslide zones across Uttarakhand but will also undertake mitigation steps.

However, the suggested work structure of the upcoming centre is being slammed by a section of experts, who feel the government’s proposal is too “engineer-driven” and ignores geologists, who play a pivotal role in landslide modelling, stability analysis and design of landslide mitigation, which is the primary role of the proposed centre as well.  https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/landslide-mitigation-centre-in-uttarakhand-draws-flak/articleshow/93335872.cms  (04 Aug. 2022)

This report has some details of disaster afflicted areas on Uttarakhand. 1988 और 2022 के बीच उत्तराखंड में भूस्खलन की 11,219 घटनाएं दर्ज की गई हैं। वर्ष 2015 से अब तक उत्तराखंड में भूस्खलन की घटनाओं में 300 से अधिक लोगों की मौत हो चुकी है। https://www.amarujala.com/dehradun/uttarakhand-weather-rain-water-causing-havoc-in-mountains-78-people-died-in-two-months-2023-08-22?pageId=2  (22 Aug. 2023)

DROUGHT

Maharashtra Threat of early summer looms large in Marathwada Jayakwadi is not the only exception. All major dams in Marathwada region depict an alarming scenario. Water storage in Majalgaon dam is 11.34 pc, Manjara 29.96 pc, Lower Terna 23.45 pc, Sina Kolegaon 0 pc, Lower Dudhna 27.39 pc. Last year, their water storage were 100 pc, 97.11 pc, 100 pc, 100 pc, 75.05 pc respectively. However, three dams stand out for better water storage — Siddheshwar 99.39 pc (last year) 100 pc; Lower Manor 73.49 pc (73.49 pc) and Yeldhari 62.19 pc (0 pc).

The drought-prone Marathwada region with total 964 dams has a water storage of 40.54 pc. Earlier it was more than double at 88.09 pc. In terms of actual water storage, Marathwada comprising eight districts of Beed, Dharashiv, Nanded, Jalna, Latur, Parbhani, Sambhajinagar and Hingoli has 2,942,920 million litres as against its optimum storage capacity of 7,258,830 million litres.

A fortnight ago, the state cabinet declared drought in 42 talukas. Among them, 14 talukas are in Marathwada region. The official report states that 121 talukas received 50 to 75 per cent rainfall, 144 talukas had rain between 75 and 100 per cent. Only in five talukas the rain was extremely low at 25 to 50 per cent of the normal. However, 85 talukas received 100 per cent and above rainfall between June and October end.

A senior water resources department officer said, “From the current status, our real concern is Marathwada. With effective planning and monitoring of the dam water levels, the drinking water crisis can be avoided. On agriculture front, he said, “there has to be a strict advisory and its enforcement to ensure effective utility of every drop of water.”  https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/marathwada-stares-at-impending-drought-as-jayakwadi-dam-is-just-47-full-9025127/   (14 Nov. 2023)

ENERGY OPTIONS

Study Despite subsidies rooftop solar still too expensive India’s low uptake of rooftop solar systems is largely due to limited electricity consumption and existing subsidies for coal-fired electricity that makes even subsidised solar power expensive, suggests the results of a first-of-its-kind study spanning 14,000 households across 21 states. The analysis was conducted by Council for Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) and made public on Nov 16 2023.

– Were all rooftops in India’s estimated 25-30 crore households to have solar panels installed, it would amount to 637 GW – or about five times the total renewable energy capacity already installed. However were solar panel installations restricted to account for the electricity actually consumed by households, this would fall 80% to about 118 GW. India currently has about 11 GW of installed rooftop solar capacity, of which only 2.7 GW are in residential units and the rest in commercial or industrial spaces. The government aspired to a target of installing 40GW. Thus, the subsidies notwithstanding by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the main promoter of clean energy adoption, rooftop solar systems are still too expensive for the vast majority of Indian consumers of electricity.

– “Approximately 80%-85% of consumers use about 1200 units of electricity annually of which a large part is already free due to state subsidies (on electricity),” Neeraj Kuldeep, Senior Programme Lead, CEEW, and one of the authors said. “To improve rooftop adoption, perhaps greater incentives are needed for the segment of consumers with the lowest (electricity consumption) of 0-1 kilowatt.Currently the cost of installing a 1-2 KW system is about ₹43,000 per unit, according to MNRE estimates. Units up to 3KW are eligible for a subsidy of about ₹14,000 per unit.

– Rural areas show higher technical potential based on residential rooftop area (363 GW) compared to urban areas across states (274 GW). “India’s solar energy revolution–going from 2,000 MW of solar power capacity in 2010 to 72,018 MW now–must reach households too to reach its full potential,” Arunabha Ghosh, CEO, CEEW, said in a statement, “But to get there, residents must get the right price and attractive incentives and enjoy a convenient experience, which can then spur the markets to create the right products and capacities for homes.” https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/despite-subsidies-rooftop-solar-still-too-expensive-study/article67541086.ece  (17 Nov. 2023)

ENVIRONMENT GOVERNANCE

Delhi HC permits advocate Ritwick Dutta to travel abroad Justice Subramonium Prasad took into account the fact that Dutta, the founder of Legal Initiative for Forest and Environment (LIFE), has been practising law in the national capital for the last 21 years and was a recipient of Right to Livelihood Award, 2021. “It is stated that the petitioner has roots in the society,” the Court noted while granting Dutta the permission to travel abroad next week and in December.

The order was passed on Dutta’s petition challenging the Look-Out Circular (LOC) got issued against him by the CBI. Considering the facts and circumstances, the Court allowed Dutta to travel to Geneva and Germany subject to certain conditions including furnishing a security of ₹5 lakh. “The permission to travel abroad given in this order shall be subject to other applicable conditions, and will not be deemed as a direction to any other authority,” Justice Prasad while disposing of Dutta’s application. https://www.barandbench.com/news/delhi-high-court-permits-advocate-ritwick-dutta-to-travel-abroad  (17 Nov. 2023)

CLIMATE CHANGE

Report GLOBAL GLACIER CHANGE BULLETIN No. 5 (2020–2021): Glacier monitoring has been coordinated internationally since 1894. This long-term effort has resulted in the compilation of an unprecedented dataset of changes in glacier length, area, volume, and mass. The dataset has been made freely available by the WGMS and its predecessor organizations and is widely used in scientific studies and assessment reports. The worldwide retreat of glaciers has become one of the most prominent icons of global climate change. Moreover, glacier decline has impacts on the local hazard situation, regional water availability, and global sea-level rise

In the time period covered by the present bulletin, glaciers observed by the glaciological method lost about 0.75 m w.e. a–1. This continues the historically unprecedented ice loss observed since the turn of the century and is amounting to double the ice loss rates of the 1990s. Recent global assessments estimate and correct for the bias in the glaciological sample (Zemp et al., 2020) and suggest that glaciers are currently contributing more than 1 mm to mean global sea-level rise, which corresponds to more than a quarter of the observed rise. https://wgms.ch/downloads/WGMS_GGCB_05.pdf 

SOUTH ASIA

Nepal Exotic and invasive fish thrive in water hyacinth The once-pristine lakes face a host of pressures due to land use changes and water pollution and contamination that is helping water hyacinth grow. https://scroll.in/article/1058850/exotic-and-invasive-fish-thrive-in-water-hyacinth-in-nepals-water-bodies  (17 Nov. 2023)

ASIA

MEKONG River is in crisis The Mekong River ecosystem is on the verge of collapse due to the accumulative effects of climate change.

Hydropower dams, drought and human-made activities such as deforestation and sand mining have also caused water levels to drop to their lowest in more than 60 years. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Nf93iRHZoU  (16 Nov. 2023)

EUROPE Nerevta: One of last pristine rivers need protection from 50 dams The Neretva, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is one of the most biodiverse rivers on the continent – supporting bears, wolves, lynx and many rare species – but more than 50 planned dams could permanently transform the ecosystem.

Europe has the most obstructed river landscape in the world; the number of barriers such as dams, weirs and fords is estimated at more than 1m, according to a 2020 EU study. Cumulatively, these barriers are among the main causes of the 80% decline in freshwater biodiversity and 55% loss of migratory fish populations in Europe’s rivers.

Hydropower made up 37% of Bosnia’s electricity production in 2021. In the Balkans, where rivers are among the most pristine or “near natural” in Europe, they are threatened by 3,300 planned hydropower plants. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/nov/17/its-one-of-europes-last-pristine-rivers-can-scientists-save-it-from-50-dams-aoe   (17 Nov. 2023)

THE REST OF THE WORLD

Study Abiotic & biotic factors influencing heavy metals pollution in fisheries of the Western Amazon This provides a crucial baseline for monitoring future environmental changes & understanding the persistent impacts of heavy metal pollution in the Ecuadorian Amazon region & broader Western Amazon. It underscores the urgent need for sustainable environmental management to mitigate the escalating threat to these vital ecosystems. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969723071346?dgcid=coauthor  (15 Jan. 2023)

Evaluating 3 decades of precipitation in the Upper Colorado River basin from a high-resolution regional climate model: –This study examined 34 years of precipitation from a high-resolution (1 km × 1 km) regional climate model (WRF v3.8.1). The precipitation is compared against the information in the Liu et al. (2017) dataset, SNOTEL observations, three different precipitation products (PRISM, Livneh, and Newman), and basin mean precipitation inferred from a Bayesian inference method that uses streamflow and high-resolution snow lidar remote-sensing data (Painter et al., 2016). The primary goal is to better characterize precipitation biases and error characteristics from this regional climate model simulation, while acknowledging that gridded precipitation estimates are models themselves and subject to large uncertainties. https://gmd.copernicus.org/articles/16/6531/2023/  (15 Nov. 2023)

Covenant of The Salmon People Covenant of the Salmon People features a portrait of the Nez Perce Tribe as they continue to carry out their ancient promise to protect the Chinook salmon.

The film explores the intertwined fate of the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce), salmon, and the landscape from which both evolved. The Nez Perce people are the oldest documented civilization in North America, with archaeological sites along Idaho’s Salmon. https://www.pbs.org/video/covenant-vcucck/  (01 Nov. 2023)

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

Also see: DRP News Bulletin 13 Nov. 2023 & DRP News Bulletin 06 Nov. 2023  

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