(Feature Image: Yamuna river deprived of e-flows downstream 120 Mw Vyasi HEP dam in Dehradun, Uttarakhand in June 2023. Bhim Singh Rawat/SANDRP)
This annual overview examines minutes of meetings held by Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) for River Valley and Hydropower Projects between 15 December 2022 and 24 November 2023 for consideration of Dams, Hydroelectric Power (HEP), Pumped Storage Hydro Projects (PSP) and Irrigation related proposals seeking Terms of Reference (TOR) and Environment Clearance (EC) approvals. The report further analysis various water projects related proposals considered by the Forest Appraisal Committee (FAC) between 27 December 2022 and 18 December 2023 for Forest Clearances (FC).
SANDRP’s 2022, 2021, 2020 reports analyzing the EAC and FAC decisions regarding dams, hydro power, irrigation related projects can be seen by clicking the links.
2023 EAC Decisions:
North India
| SN | Project Name Cap.(in Mw) | Developer | District/ State | River/ Basin | Meeting Date | Proposal | Decision |
| 1 | Basin Wise Re-assessment of HEP Potential | Multiple | Multiple | Indus Basin | 15 Feb. 2023 | Draft report of Indus Basin | Comments given |
| 2 | CIA & CCS of Yamuna River Basin | ICFRE Dehradun | Himachal Pradesh | Yamuna/ Ganga | 15 Feb. 2023 | For ToR | Additional TORs suggested |
| 17-18 Oct. 2023 | Modification of ToR | Not accepted | |||||
| 3 | CIA & CCS of Yamuna River Basin | ICFRE, Dehradun | Uttarakhand | Yamuna/ Ganga | 17-18 Oct. 2023 | For Status of study report | Further studies required. |
| 4 | CIA & CCS of HEPs in Sutlej River Basin including less than 10 Mw | ICFRE, Dehradun | Himachal Pradesh | Sutlej/ Indus | 15 Feb. 2023 | Reconsideration of the draft Report | HP Govt to discuss with ICFRE |
| 17-18 Oct. 2023 | Reconsideration of Study Report | Recommended the study report for acceptance by the Ministry. | |||||
| 5 | CIA & CCS of Ravi Basin | Himachal Pradesh | Ravi/ Indus | 17-18 Oct. 2023 | For Consideration of proposal | Revised ToR to be submitted | |
| 6 | Renukaji Dam Project (40 MW) | HPPCL | Sirmaur/ Himachal Pradesh | Giri/ Yamuna | 24 July 2023 | For EC dated 23.10.2009 Extension | EC Valid upto 22.10.2025 |
| 7 | Phata Byung HEP (76 MW) | Lanco Mandakini Hydro Energy Pvt Ltd | Rudrapraya/ Uttarakhand | Mandakani/ Ganga | 23 Feb. 2023 | For ToR | More Info Sought; Site Visit Planned. |
| 24 Nov. 2023 | Deferred. More Info. Sought | ||||||
| 8 | Jakhol Sankri HEP (44 MW) | SJVN Ltd. | Uttarkashi/ Uttarakhand | Supin/ Yamuna | 17-18 Oct. 2023 | Reconsidera-tion of EC | More Info Sought |
| 9 | Greenko UP01 Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (3660 MW) (Revised capacity, up from 3000 MW for which TOR given in Jan 2022) | Greenko Energies Pvt. Ltd. | Sonbhadra/ Uttar Pradesh | Sone/ Ganga | 15 Feb. 2023 | For Amendment in ToR | Approved |
| 11 Nov. 2023 | Project Withdrawn | ||||||
| 10 | Sonbhadra Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (1200 MW) | Sri Siddharth Infratech & Services (I) Pvt Ltd | Sonbhadra/ Uttar Pradesh | Sone/ Ganga | 27-28 March 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 11 | Astha UP Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (640 MW) | Astha Green Energy Ventures India Pvt. Ltd | Mirzapur & Prayagraj/ Uttar Pradesh | Belan/ Tauns/ Yamuna | 27-28 March 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 12 | Shoma PSP (2400 MW) | Torrent Power Ltd. | Sonbhadra/ Uttar Pradesh | Sone/ Ganga | 26 June 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 13 | Musakhand PSP (600 MW) | ACME Clean Tech Solutions Pvt. Ltd. | Chandauli/ Uttar Pradesh | Karmnasha/ Ganga | 11 Aug. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 14 | Discussion on requirement of CIA/CSS for SHP projects | 17- 18 Oct. 2023 | Deliberations to be continued. | ||||
| 26 Oct. 2023 | 5 Recommendations made | ||||||
| 15 | Sashnai PSP (1760 MW) | Torrent Power Ltd. | Sonbhadra/ Uttar Pradesh | Sone/ Ganga | 11 Nov. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
The EAC has considered 15 proposals from North Indian states between 15 Dec. 2022 and 24 Nov. 2023. Of this 6 proposals have been related to Cumulative Impact Assessment and Carrying Capacity Study (CIA & CCS) studies of Indus, Sutlej, Ravi and Yamuna river basin in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand state. On a proposal of requirement of CIA/CSS for Small Hydro Projects (SHP), the EAC on 26 Oct. 2023 has made 5 recommendations which can be seen here.
The rest 9 proposals considered by the EAC are related to a dam, 2 HEPs and 6 Pump Storage Projects (PSP) projects. Regarding Renuka dam project proposal seeking extension of EC dated 23 Sept. 2009; the EAC in 24 July 2023 meeting stated that the EC is valid upto 22 Oct. 2025. Seeking more information on 73 Mw Phata Byung HEP, Uttarakhand, the EAC on 24 Nov. 2023 deferred the ToR proposal of the project. Only one project 44 Mw Jakhol Sankri HEP, Uttarakhand was discussed for reconsideration of EC and the EAC has sought more information regarding the proposal in 17-18 Oct. 2023 meeting.
All the 6 PSP proposals from Uttar Pradesh were considered for ToRs and the same were approved by the EAC in the above-mentioned period. However, the ToR proposal for Greenko UP01 Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (3660 Mw) in Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh was withdrawn by project proponent (PP) on 11 Nov. 2023.
North East & East India
| SN | Project Name Cap.(in Mw) | Developer | District/ State | River/ Basin | Meeting Date | Proposal | Decision |
| 1 | Demwe Lower HEP (1750 MW) | M/s Athena Demwe Power Ltd | Lohit/ Arunachal Pradesh | Subansiri/ Brahmaputra | 07 March 2023 | For Extension validity of EC | PP asked to apply as validity till 11.02.2026. |
| 2 | Emra-II HEP (315 MW) | Athena Emra Power Private Ltd. | Dibang Valley/ Arunachal Pradesh | Subansiri/ Brahmaputra | 12 Sept. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 3 | CIA & CCS of Tirap Basin. Inclusion of Chinglum HEP in Subansiri Basin | Arunachal Pradesh | Brahmaputra | 17-18 Oct. 2023 | For conducting study | State govt officials absent | |
| 4 | Lower Kopili HEP (120 MW) | APGCL | Karbi Anglong & Dima Hasao, Assam | Kopili/ Brahmaputra | 26 Oct. 2023 | For amendment in EC | Approved |
| 5 | Greenko OD01 Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (1200 MW) | Greenko Energies Pvt Ltd | Kalahandi/ Odisha | Indravati/ Godavari | 23 Feb. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 6 | Upper Indravati PSP 600 MW | OHPCL | Kalahandi/ Odisha | Indravati/ Godavari | 27-28 March 2023 | For ToR | Site visit suggested |
| 11 Nov. 2023 | Already issued | ||||||
| 7 | Ramial Left Bank PSP (1500 MW) | Renew Solar Power Private Ltd. | Kendujhar/ Odisha | Ramial/ Brahmini | 11 Aug. 2023 | For ToR | Deferred |
| 17-18 Oct. 2023 | Approved | ||||||
| 8 | Tainsar PSP (675 MW) | Jindal Renewable Power Private Ltd. | Deogarh/ Odisha | Jaraikela/ Brahmini | 12 Sept. 2023 | For ToR | Deferred for lack of exploration of alternatives to the project in reserved forest area. |
| 24 Nov. 2023 | Approved | ||||||
| 9 | Kadopada PSP (750 MW) | Jindal Renewable Power Private Ltd. | Deogarh/ Odisha | Brahmani | 12 Sept. 2023 | For ToR | Deferred, more info sought including about alternatives in non forest area, hydrology etc. |
| 10 | Hasdeo Bango PSP (1200 MW) | CSPGCL | Korba/ Chhattisgarh | Hasdeo/ Mahanadi | 26 June 2023 | For ToR | Suggested to explore alternative sites |
| 17-18 Oct. 2023 | Approved | ||||||
| 11 | Chikni PSP (325 MW) | Chikini Energy Private Ltd. | Surajpur/ Chhattisgarh | Mahan/ Sone | 26 June 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 12 | Kharauli PSP (500 MW) | Kharauli Energy Private Ltd. | Surajpur/ Chhattisgarh | Mahan/ Sone | 24 July 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
The EAC considered 12 proposals comprised of 3 HEPs, 8 PSPs in North East and East India between 15 Dec. 2022 and 24 Nov. 2023. The remaining 1 proposal regarding CIA & CCS study of Tirap Basin and inclusion of Chinglum HEP in Subansiri Basin was taken up on 17-18 Oct. 2023 but remained undecided due to the absence of Arunachal Pradesh state govt officials.
Of the 3 HEP proposals, 2 were from Arunachal Pradesh and 1 from Assam state. The 1750 Mw Demwe Lower HEP, Arunachal Pradesh was discussed for extension of EC validity on 07 March 2023 and the EAC has informed that the EC is valid upto 11 Feb. 2026. In 12 Sept. 2023 meeting, the EAC approved ToR of 315 Mw Emra-II HEP in Dibang valley. The 120 Mw Lower Kopili HEP, Assam was taken up and approved for the amendment in EC on 26 Oct. 2023.
Of 8 proposals of PSPs, 5 were from Odisha and 3 from Chhattisgarh state. All the PSPs were considered for ToRs and same were approved for 7 projects except Kadopada PSP (750 MW) from Deogarh, Odisha regarding which the EAC has sought more information on 12 Sept. 2023.
West India
| SN | Project Name Cap. (in Mw) | Developer | District/ State | River/ Basin | Meeting Date | Proposal | Decision |
| 1 | Shahpur PSP (1800 MW) | Greenko Energies Pvt Ltd | Baran/ Rajasthan | Kuno/ Chambal | 23 Feb. 2023 | For EC | More Info. Sought |
| 2 | Semaliya-II Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (1200 MW) | Semaliya Energy Pvt Ltd | Chittorgarh/ Rajasthan | Chambal/ Yamuna | 27-28 March 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 3 | Sirohi PSP (640 MW) | Sasa Stone Pvt Ltd | Sirohi/ Rajasthan | Jawai/ Luni | 27-28 March 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 4 | Sirohi PSP (1200MW) | JSW Energy PSP 1 Ltd | Sirohi/ Rajasthan | Sili nallah/ West Banas | 26 April 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 5 | Brahmani PSP (600 MW) | ACME Clean Tech Solutions Pvt. Ltd. | Chittorgarh/ Rajasthan | Brahmani/ Banas | 17-18 Oct. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 6 | Karauli PSP 1400 MW | Torrent Power Ltd. | Karauli/ Rajasthan | Parbati/ Chambal | 11 Nov. 2023 | For ToR | PP asked to justify the project location |
| 7 | Dholpur PSP (1800 MW) | Torrent Power Ltd | Dholpur/ Rajasthan | Parbati/ Chambal | 11 Nov. 2023 | For ToR | PP asked to justify the project. |
| 8 | Lower Orr Dam under Ken-Betwa Link Project Phase II | NWDA | Ashoknagar/ Madhya Pradesh | Orr/ Betwa | 15 Dec. 2022 | Site visit report | Action recommended against the PP for starting work without EC |
| 9 | Basania multi-purpose project (100 Mw) | NVDA | Madla/ Madhya Pradesh | Narmada | 25 Jan. 2023 | For ToR | Deferred as no alternative analysis to optimise use of forest land |
| 10 | Astha MP Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (1200 MW) | Astha Green Energy Ventures India Pvt Ltd | Khargone/ Madhya Pradesh | Narmada | 23 Feb. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 11 | Rewa Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (600 MW) | Sasa Stone Pvt Ltd | Rewa/ Madhya Pradesh | Belan/ Tons | 27-28 March 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 12 | MP Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (600 MW) | Rithwik Projects Pvt. Ltd | Panna/ Madhya Pradesh | Ken/ Yamuna | 27-28 March 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 13 | Gond Major Irrigation Project | Irrigation Dept. | Singrauli & Sidhi / Madhya Pradesh | Gopad/ Son | 24 July 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 14 | Warsgaon Warangi PSP (1200 MW) | Adani Green Energy Limited | Raigad/ Maharashtra | Ambi/ Mutha | 15 Dec. 2022 | For ToR | Approved |
| 15 | Damanganga (Ekdare) – Godavari intrastate link project | NWDA | Nasik/ Maharashtra | Godavari | 15 Dec. 2022 | For ToR | Approved |
| 16 | Malshej Ghat Bhorande PSP 1440 MW | Adani Green Energy Limited | Pune & Thane/ Maharashtra | Kukadi/ Ghod/ Bhima/ Krishna | 28 Dec. 2022 | For ToR | Deferred on request of PP |
| 15 Feb. 2023 | Approved | ||||||
| 17 | Expansion of Krishna Koyna LIP | Dept of Irrigation | Sangli & Solapur/ Maharashtra | Koyna/ Krishna | 25 Jan. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 18 | 24 July 2023 | For EC | Approved | ||||
| 19 | Kolhapur Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (1200 MW) | Rithwik Projects Pvt Ltd | Kolhapur/ Maharashtra | Ghatprabha/ Krishna | 27-28 March 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 20 | Kurha-VadhodaIslampur LIP | M/S Tapi Irrigation Development Corp | Jalgaon/ Maharashtra | Purna/ Godavari | 26 April 2023 | For EC | Approved |
| 21 | Koyna-Nivakane PSP (2450 MW) | Adani Green Energy Ltd | Satara/ Maharashtra | Kera/ Koyna/ Krishna | 26 June 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 22 | Saidongar (Closed loop) PSP (1200 MW+3000 MW) | Torrent Power Ltd. | Raigad/ Maharashtra | Indrayani/ Bhima/ Krishna | 26 June 2023 | For ToR | PP advised to consult with CEA to look into the design aspect |
| 23 | Saidongar-1 Pumped Storage Project (3000 MW) | Torrent Power Ltd. | Raigad/ Maharashtra | Indrayani/ Bhima/ Krishna | 11 Aug. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 24 | Saidongar-2 Pumped Storage Project (1200 MW) | Torrent Power Ltd. | Raigad/ Maharashtra | Indrayani/ Bhima/ Krishna | 11 Aug. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 25 | Shirawta Off Stream Open Loop PSP (1800 MW) | Tata Power Co. Ltd. | Pune/ Maharashtra | Indrayani/ Bhima/ Krishna | 11 Aug. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 26 | Bhivpuri Off-Stream Open Loop PSP (1000 MW) | Tata Power Co. Ltd. | Raigad/ Maharashtra | Indrayani/ Bhima/ Krishna | 11 Aug. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 27 | Expansion of Tembhu LIP | State Irrigation Dept. | Satara/ Maharashtra | Krishna | 12 Sept. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 28 | Tarali PSP (1500 MW) | Adani Green Energy Ltd | Satara/ Maharashtra | Tarali /Krishna | 17-18 Oct. 2023 | Amendment in ToR | Approved |
| 29 | Pindval PSP (1000 MW) | Torrent Power Ltd. | Valsad/ Gujarat | Nar/ Par | 11 Aug. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 30 | Tokarpada PSP | Torrent Power Ltd. | Valsad/ Gujarat | Par | 11 Aug. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
In West Indian states the EAC considered 30 proposals including 15 from Maharashtra, 7 from Rajasthan, 6 from MP and 2 from Gujarat states between 15 Dec. 2022 and 24 Nov. 2023. The proposals were comprised of 1 dam (Basania Multipurpose project, MP) 1 Irrigation (Gond Major Irrigation Project, MP), 2 river linking (Lower Orr Dam under Ken Betwa Link Phase II, MP & Damanganga-Godavari intrastate link, Maharashtra) 3 Lift Irrigation Projects (LIP) proposal from Maharashtra and 23 PSP projects.
1 project Lower Orr Dam was discussed for violations, 2 projects Shahpur PSP (1800 MW), Rajasthan & Krishna-Koyna LIP were considered for EC while 27 projects were taken up for ToR approval in this period.
Regarding violations in Lower Orr Dam project, the EAC on 15 Dec. 2022 has recommended “action against the PP for starting work without EC”. The details of this case can be seen here. In context of ECs, the EAC on 23 Feb. 2023 has sought more information about Shahpur PSP and granted EC to Krishna-Koyna LIP on 24 July 2023. The ToR for the same project was approved on 25 Jan. 2023.
Out of 27 ToR proposals the EAC approved 23 including 20 for PSPs. Regarding 1400 Mw Karauli and 1800 Mw Dholpur PSPs in Rajasthan, the EAC on 11 Nov. 2023 deferred the ToRs asking PPs to “justify the project locations considering high Forest land requirement”. Similarly, the EAC on 25 Jan. 2023 deferred the ToR for Basania multi-purpose project on the ground on of “no alternative analysis to optimize use of forest land” by Narmada Valley Development Authority (NVDA).
In case of Saidongar PSP (1200 MW+3000 MW) in Raigad Maharashtra, the EAC on 26 June 2023 rejected the ToR and advised PP to consult with Central Electricity Authority (CEA). Hereafter, the project was broken into two parts namely Saidongar-1 (3000 MW) & Saidongar-2 (1200 MW) and ToRs for both these PSPs were then approved on 11 Aug. 2023.
The credibility of EAC’s appraisal process came under questions when it was revealed by the media that Janardhan Chaudhary a key advisor to Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) has also been appointed as one of the 7 non-institutional members in reconstituted EAC panel and he had attended 17-18 Oct. 2023 EAC meeting in which ToR were granted to 1500 Mw Tarali Off Stream PSP which is proposed in Satara, Maharashtra by M/s Adani Green Energy Limited.
In a damage control mode and what seems like an after-thought post media criticism, the EAC on 28 Oct. 2023 amended the minutes of meeting held on 17-18 Oct. 2023 clarifying that to avoid conflict of interest Janardan Choudhary had not participated in the deliberations of particular proposal. However, the act of changing meeting minutes is misguiding and in any case it does not help resolve the conflict of interest issue.
South India
| SN | Project Name Cap.(in Mw) | Developer | District/ State | River/ Basin | Meeting Date | Proposal | Decision |
| 1 | Astha Telangana Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (600 MW) | Astha Green Energy Ventures India Private Ltd | Nizamabad/ Telangana | Kappal Vagu/ Pedda Vagu/ Godavari | 28 Dec. 2022 | For ToR | More Info. sought |
| 27-28 March 2023 | Approved | ||||||
| 2 | NGT direction regarding alleged illegal & unauthorized construction of Palamuru Rangareddy LIS & Dindi LIS | Telangana | Dindi/ Krishna | 25 Jan. 2023 | Sub Committee formed to visit the project and submit report as desired by NGT | ||
| 3 | Palamuru Rangareddy LIP (Phase II: Irrigation) | State Irrigation & CAD Dept | Mahbub-nagar, Rangareddy & Nalgonda/ Telangana | Krishna | 26 June 2023 | For EC | Deferred |
| 4 | Greenko TS01 Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (750 MW) | Greenko Energies Pvt Ltd | Adilabad Telangana | Waddadi/ | 23 Feb. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 5 | Cerulean-II Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (640 MW) | Cerulean Energy Solutions Pvt Ltd | Komaram Bheem/ Telangana | Peddavagu/ Pranhita/ Godavari | 27-28 March 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 6 | Singanamala PSP (800 MW) | NREDC AP Ltd | Anantha-puramu, Andhra Pradesh | Pennar | 15 Dec. 2022 | For ToR | Approved |
| 7 | Completion of Balance Works of 2 Units (2×115 MW) at Lower Sileru Hydro Power House & Improvement of Power Canal Works | AP Power Generation Corp Ltd | Alluri Sita Rama Raju/ Andhra Pradesh | Sileru/ Sabari/ Godavari | 07 March 2023 | For EC | Approved |
| 8 | Paidipalem North PSP (1000 MW) | NREDC of AP Ltd | YSR/ Andhra Pradesh | Pennar | 07 March 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 9 | Paidipalem East PSP (1200 MW) | NREDC of AP Ltd | YSR/ Andhra Pradesh | Pennar | 07 March 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 10 | Yaganti PSP (1000 MW) | NREDC of AP Ltd | Nandyal/ Andhra Pradesh | Jurreru / Kunderu/ Pennar | 26 June 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 11 | Chitravathi Pumped Storage HEP | NREDC of AP Ltd | Sri Satya Sai/ Andhra Pradesh | Chitravathi/ Pennar | 26 June 2023 | For EC | Approved |
| 12 | Gujjili PSP (1500 MW) | NREDC of AP Ltd | Alluri Sita Rama Raju/ Andhra Pradesh | Gostani/ Krishna | 26 June 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 13 | Chittamvalasa PSP (800 MW) | NREDC of AP Ltd | Alluri Sita Rama Raju/ Andhra Pradesh | Sarada | 24 July 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 14 | Raiwada PSP (850 MW) | Adani Green Energy Ltd | Anakapalli/ Andhra Pradesh | Sarada | 11 Aug. 2023 | For ToR | PP Absent |
| 12 Sept. 2023 | Approved | ||||||
| 15 | Gandikota PSP (1000 MW) | New & Renewable Energy Development Corp | YSR/ Andhra Pradesh | Pennar | 26 Oct. 2023 | For EC | More Info. Sought |
| 16 | Pedakota PSP (1800 MW) | Adani Green Energy Ltd | Alluri Sita Rama Raju/ Andhra Pradesh | Bodderu/ Sarada | 11 Nov. 2023 | For ToR | More Info. Sought |
| 17 | Yadaballi PSP (1200 MW) | New & Renewable Energy Development Corp | Annamayya/ Andhra Pradesh | Mandavi | 24 Nov. 2023 | For ToR | Project Withdrawn |
| 18 | Rayavaram Hydro-Electric PSP (1500 MW) | New & Renewable Energy Development Corp | Annamayya/ Andhra Pradesh | Cheyyeru/ Pennar | 24 Nov. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 19 | Saundatti PSP HEP 1260 MW (revised capacity) | Greenko Solar Energy Pvt. Ltd. | Belgaum/ Karnataka | Malaprabha/ Krishna | 15 Feb. 2023 | For Amendment/ correction in EC | Approved |
| 20 | Narihalla PSP (300MW) | JSW Energy PSP 3 Ltd | Ballari/ Karnataka | Narihalla/ Tungbhadra/ Krishna | 26 April 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 21 | Vijayanagar PSP (130 MW) | JSW Energy PSP 2 Ltd | Ballari/ Karnataka | Tungbhadra/ Krishna | 17-18 Oct. 2023 | For EC | Approved |
| 22 | Sharavathy PSP (2000 MW) | Karnataka Power Corp. Ltd. | Uttar Kannada/ Karnataka | Sharavathy | 26 Oct. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 23 | Kodayar HEP PSP (1500 MW) | TNGDCL | Kanyakumari/Tamil Nadu | Kodyar/ Tambara-parani | 07 March 2023 | For ToR | Sub Com to visit the site |
| 24 | Manalar HEP PSP (1200 MW) | TNGDCL | Theni/ Tamil Nadu | Manalar/ Vaigai | 23 Feb. 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 25 | Greenko TN-01 Off-Stream Closed Loop PSP (1200 MW) | Greenko Energies Pvt Ltd | Tirupathur/ Tamil Nadu | Palar | 27-28 March 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
| 26 | Arunachalam PSP (900 MW) | Volthills Private Ltd. | Dharmapuri/ Tamil Nadu | Kallar | 26 June 2023 | For ToR | Approved |
The EAC considered 26 proposals during 15 Dec. 2022 – 24 Nov. 2023 from South India including 13 from Andhra Pradesh, 5 from Telangana, 4 each from Karnataka & Tamil Nadu. Of these proposals, 23 were considered for PSPs, 2 for LIPs and 1 proposal for HEP in this period.
After discussing the NGT directions regarding alleged illegal and unauthorized construction of Palamuru Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (LIS) & Dindi LIS, the EAC on 25 Jan 2023 formed a sub-committee to visit the project site and submit report as desired by NGT.
Of 5 proposals taken up for the EC, the EAC on 26 June 2023 deferred EC to Palamuru Rangareddy LIP Phase II proposal. The EC for completion of balance works of two units (2×115 MW) at Lower Sileru Hydro Power House and improvement of power canal works was granted on 07 March 2023.
The EAC considered 3 PSP proposals for ECs from South zone in 2023. The EAC on 26 Oct. 2023 sought more information regarding 1000 Mw Gandikota PSP in Andhra Pradesh and granted ECs to 1260 Mw Saundatti PSP & 130 Mw Vijayanagar in Karnataka in meetings held on 15 Feb. 2023 and 17-18 Oct. 2023.
Regarding ToR approvals, the EAC approved ToRs for 17 PSP proposals out of 20 taken up for consideration. Of the 17 approved PSP proposals, 9 are from Andhra Pradesh, 3 each from Telangana & Tamil Nadu and 2 from Karnataka state.
Of 3 PSP proposals rejected TORs in this period 2 are from Andhra Pradesh, 1 from Tamil Nadu. While the EAC on 11 Nov. 2023 sought more information regarding 1800 Mw Pedakota PSP’s ToR; the 1200 Mw Yadaballi PSP’s ToR proposal was withdrawn by the PP. Regarding 1500 Mw Kodayar PSP in Tamil Nadu, EAC on 7 Mar 2023 formed a sub-committee to visit the project site.
The date wise link of EAC meetings’ minutes can be seen in table below.
Summary: –Between 15 Dec. 2022 and 24 Nov. 2023, the EAC conducted 16 meetings and considered 83 proposals including 15 from North, 12 from North East & East, 30 from West and 26 from South zones. The maximum 60 proposals considered in this period were for PSPs followed by 6 HEPs, 5 LIPs, 2 Dams, 2 river linking and 1 major irrigation project. 7 remaining proposals were regarding CIA & CCS studies in Yamuna, Sutlej, Ravi and Tirap basin including a proposal on need of CIA & CCS studies in small hydro power projects.
Of the total 13 proposals taken up for EC including extension and reconsideration; 06 were approved. Similarly, ToRs proposals including amendment in ToRs were approved for 53 proposals out of a total 63 considered in this period. Notably of total 60 PSP proposals taken up for ECs (4) and ToRs (56), the EAC granted EC to 2 proposals and approved ToRs of 50 proposals. Similarly, 3 HEP proposals out of 4 were given ECs while ToR was approved for 1 HEP proposal out of 2 taken up for discussion by EAC.
2023 FAC Decisions: The details of various hydro, dam and irrigation projects considered by FAC for forest clearances between 27 Dec 2022 and 18 Dec 2023 are given in table below.
| SN | Project Name Cap.(in Mw) | Developer | District/ State | River/ Basin | Meeting Date | Proposal | Decision |
| 1 | Thana Plaun HEP (191 MW) | HPPCL | Mandi, Himachal Pradesh | Beas/ Sutlej | 27 Jan. 2023 | For diversion of 406.79 ha. of forest land | More Info Sought |
| 20 Oct. 2023 | Approved | ||||||
| 2 | Kuther HEP (240 MW) | JSW Energy Ltd | Chamba/ Himachal Pradesh | Ravi/ Indus | 27 Feb. 2023 | For diversion of additional 3.7904 ha of forest land for Transmission Line | More Info sought |
| 24 March 2023 | More info sought | ||||||
| 12 June 2023 | Approved | ||||||
| 3 | Sunni Dam HEP (382 MW) | SJVN Ltd | Shimla & Mandi/ Himachal Pradesh | Sutlej/ Indus | 18 May 2023 | For diversion of 397.8863 ha forest land & Modification in condition of Stage-II approval | Approval cannot be considered at this stage |
| 4 | Shongtong Karchham HEP (450 Mw) | HPPCL | Kinnaur/ Himachal Pradesh | Sutlej/ Indus | 17 July 2023 | For diversion of 7.3722 ha of forest land as additional forest land requirement in already approved diversion | More info sought |
| 20 Oct. 2023 | More info sought | ||||||
| 5 | Dugar HEP (500 Mw) | NHPC | Chamba/ Himachal Pradesh | Chenab/ Sutlej | 21 Aug. 2023 | For diversion of 211.8427 ha. of forest land | More info sought |
| 29 Nov. 2023 | Deferred. | ||||||
| 6 | Chheligarh Medium Irrigation Project-1 compliance | Water Resources Dept. | Gajapati/ Odisha | Badajore/ Vamsa-dhara | 21 Aug. 2023 | For diversion of 139.319 (originally proposed area 159.895 ha) of forest land | Approved |
| 7 | Maa Ratangarh Multipurpose Project (9 Mw) | Executive Engineer, Dabra | Datia & Gwalior/ Madhya Pradesh | Sindh/ Yamuna | 25 April 2023 | For diversion of 1305.142 ha (instead of 1248.821 ha) forest land | More info sought |
| 20 Oct. 2023 | Approved | ||||||
| 8 | Marshal HEP (24.75 Mw) | Marshal Small Hydro Power Pvt Ltd | Rewa/ Madhya Pradesh | Rewa/ Narmada | 25 April 2023 | For diversion of 12.8042 ha (previous proposed area 13.1959 ha) of Protected Forest land | Cannot be accepted in its present proposition |
| 20 Oct. 2023 | Cannot be considered in its present proposition. | ||||||
| 9 | Apchand Medium Irrigation Project | Water Resources Dept. | Sagar/ Madhya Pradesh | Gadheri/ Sonar | 17 July 2023 | For diversion of 181.39 ha (182.16 ha as per online proposal) forest land | Approved |
| 10 | Majhagaon Medium Irrigation Project | Water Resources Dept. | Panna/ Madhya Pradesh | Bada nullah/ Ken | 17 July 2023 | For diversion of 426.763 ha of forest land | Penalty for violation reduced |
| 11 | Banda Irrigation project | Water Resources Dept. | Sagar/ Madhya Pradesh | Dhasan/ Betwa | 20 Oct. 2023 | For diversion of 530.85 ha (instead of 505.5 ha) of forest land | Approved |
| 12 | Morand – Ganjal Irrigation Project | NVDA | Hoshangabad, Betul, Harda Khandwa/ Madhya Pradesh | Ganjal/ Narmada | 14 Nov. 2023 | For diversion of 2250.05 ha (instead of 2272.05 ha) forest land | More info sought |
| 13 | Kareghat Minor Irrigation Tank | Executive Engineer, Nandurbar | Nandurbar/ Maha-rashtra | Supadi Nalla/ Dhule | 17 July 2023 | For diversion of 73.94 ha forest land | More info sought |
| 29 Nov. 2023 | Deferred for site inspection | ||||||
| 18 Dec. 2023 | Recommended to reject | ||||||
| 14 | New Screening Plant-II, Two Tailing dams (I & II) and laying of Water pipeline | NMDC Limited | Ballari/ Karnataka | 27 Jan. 2023 | For diversion of 75.92 ha. of forest land | Approved | |
| 15 | Standalone PSP Component of Saundatti IREP | Greenko Solar Energy Pvt Ltd | Bengaluru/ Karnataka | 17 July 2023 | For diversion of 160.4 ha. of forest land | More info sought | |
| 11 Sept. 2023 | Approved |
Out of total 15 meetings between 27 Dec. 2022 and 18 Dec. 2023, the FAC considered 15 proposals seeking diversion of forest lands for dams, hydro, irrigation and other water projects during 14 meetings. These 15 proposals were considered from the 5 states including Madhya Pradesh (6 proposals) followed by Himachal Pradesh (5), Karnataka (2), Maharashtra (1) and Odisha (1) seeking permission for diversion of 6184.25 hectare of forest land in a whole.
The FAC approved FC to the 8 of these proposals from 4 states allowing diversion of 2803.60 hectare of forest land. State wise, the FAC has approved diversion of 2017.38 ha of forest land in Madhya Pradesh (for 3 projects); 410.58 ha in Himachal Pradesh (2 projects); 236.32 ha of forest land in Karnataka (2 projects) and 139.31 ha of forest land in Odisha (1 project).
Out of the remaining 7; the FAC rejected only 1 proposal of Kareghat Minor Irrigation Tank in Maharashtra and deferred the 5 other proposals in this period. In Majhagaon Medium Irrigation Project, Madhya Pradesh case; the FAC on 15 July 2023 decided to reduce the penalty imposed against none-compliance of Stage-I FC.
The date wise link of FAC meetings’ minutes can be seen in table below.
Some Relevant News Reports
AGEL advisor on EAC committee Choudhary’s appointment by the Union Environment Ministry to the EAC for hydroelectricity and river valley projects has drawn attention as several of Adani Green Energy Ltd’s hydro project proposals are currently under EAC review. 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)
MoEF Panel concerned about impacts of SHP The FAC has rightly raised concerns about the impacts of so called small hydropower projects, that is hydropower projects with capacity below 25 MW. The MoEF assumes, following unknown science or logic, that such projects have no environment and social impacts, they do not need environment and social impact assessments or management plan, they do not need any public consultation process, they do not need any monitoring or compliance and most significantly, they do not even need any clearances! A more unscientific thinking of govt of India’s top environmental body would be difficult to find.
SANDRP has for decades been raising the issue of this incongruity in regulation of our rivers and demanding that these projects also have significant impacts and need clearances, plans and compliance.
Unfortunately, this issue should have been a concern of MoEF’s Expert Appraisal Committee on River Valley Projects, but they seem to be busy towing the govt line. One hopes the concerns of FAC would also be discussed in EAC and also MoEF should invite public comments on this, particularly the local communities affected by such projects and also bring about change in the EIA norms urgently. https://sandrp.in/2023/10/09/drp-nb-091023-moef-panel-concerned-about-impacts-of-small-hydro/ (09 Oct. 2023)
Committee to frame SoPs for small hydro projects With large hydel power projects being blamed for the disasters in the fragile zones of Himalayas and Northeastern States, the Govt is working on a strategy to make the Small Hydro Power (SHP) Projects– those plants which have a generating capacity of below 25 MW more environment-friendly. To begin with, the Union Environment Ministry may soon set up a committee for framing Standard Operational Procedure (SOP) for development of the SHPs in an eco-friendly manner. The committee, as recommended by the EAC for River Valley Projects will comprise members from Ministries from Environment, Jal Shakti, Power besides State Governments and expert institutions. https://www.dailypioneer.com/2023/india/government-working-on-strategy-to-make-environment-friendly-hydel-projects.html (24 Nov. 2023)
Arunachal Pradesh FAC to deny clearance to Etalin HEP It’s rather rare that we get a hydropower project related decision from official decision makers that can be welcomed. It has happened this week when the MoEF’s Forest Advisory Committee declined to give forest clearance to the controversial 3097 MW Etalin Hydropower Project.
It is also welcome to know that the FAC has also looked at the poor track record of compliance of conditions of earlier forest clearances for the hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh among the many reasons why the project is rejected in current form. Arunachal Pradesh may do well to improve its track record before applying for forest clearance to any new projects.
This decision is also a lesson for the EAC and also for MoEF itself for not even looking at the track record of compliance of the conditions of environment clearances that the EAC and MoEF impose on the river valley and hydropower projects. They also never look at the implementation of the Environment Management Plans. Same is the case with the MoEF’s National Board of Wildlife. https://sandrp.in/2023/01/23/drp-nb-230123-welcome-decision-of-fac-to-deny-clearance-to-etalin-hep/ (23 Jan. 2023)
FAC sends reminder letter on Dibang HEP land diversion The FAC has reminded the government of Arunachal Pradesh to submit a report regarding establishment of a community reserve or conservation reserve near the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation’s (NHPC) 3,000 mw Dibang Multipurpose Project (DMP). The letter was sent on 2 Jan 2023.
The FAC had earlier suggested establishing a national park near the NHPC’s 3,000 mw Dibang Multipurpose Project, but later suggested establishing a community reserve or conservation reserve under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, in consultation with the local people, to safeguard the rights of the indigenous community, on 17 Oct 2022. On 10 Nov 2022, the FAC directed the state government to submit its report within three weeks to the ministry regarding the community reserve. As of 24 Jan 2023, the forest & environment department was yet to respond to the reminder letter, though more than three weeks have passed. https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2023/01/25/fac-sends-reminder-letter-to-arunachal-on-dibang-hep-land-diversion/ (25 Jan. 2023)
Tamil Nadu EAC defers proposed hydro project in Kalakkad tiger reserve EAC has deferred a hydroelectric project proposed by Tangedco inside the Kanyakumari wildlife sanctuary and Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. A central committee is likely to visit Kanyakumari to assess the project. Tangedco has proposed to build a 1,500 MW pumped storage hydroelectric project spread over 40.72 hectares by using Kodayar dam as the upper reservoir, which is a masonry gravity dam, and PWD’s Pechiparai dam as the lower reservoir. A 10.95 km tunnel will be built linking both reservoirs to enable power generation. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2023/mar/30/centre-defers-proposed-hydro-power-project-inside-kalakkad-tiger-reserve-2560848.html (30 March 2023)
Bhim Singh Rawat (bhim.sandrp@gmail.com)
SANDRP 