(Feature Image: A photo taken in March 1974 of people in Raini village, Uttarakhand, a few days after they protested against the felling of trees in order to make tennis racquets. Source: Varsha Singh/Third Pole report dated 30 Nov. 2022. The original photograph was taken on 30 March, 1974 by Chandi Prasad Bhatt and has been reproduced in The Third Pole with permission)
As we celebrate the golden jubilee of Chipko Movement, one of the most iconic and memorable environmental movements of India, we need to remember the key messages of the movement. It may seem gloomy situation at the place where the movement originated in Raini village in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. In fact, as we travel from Raini to Chamoli to Uttarakhand and beyond, as far as environmental situation is concerned, there is not too much around us to celebrate about.
However, we may recall that the movement in essence was led by women. The movement was about fighting for the rightful access to environmental resources. In fact, environmental message now is much clearer and nuanced, the environmental institutions and laws are more developed and the resources available with the movements are also larger. If all these positives are marshalled to push the cause of environmental movements and messages, a lot more can be achieved than what these movements are able to achieve.
‘Chipko movement was about rightful access to resources’ Chipko was a movement to make locals self-reliant and give them rightful access to environmental resources, said Ramesh Pahari, one of the foremost leaders of the Chipko Movement. Pahari has also been a critic of the widening of the Char Dham road. “A smaller width would do. When I protested people said I am anti-development. I am, in fact, anti-disaster. Look at the number of landslides now.” Pahari said that Chipko has found new mediums. He, for example, is now focused on recharging local streams and water bodies and ensuring the groundwater level remains healthy.
This he said he and other like-minded leaders do through local people, especially women. “We pay them a token amount for the work and also call these women water conservators (from forest conservators). They make small trenches and take up plantation works,” explained Pahari. These works are being guided by Pahari in the upper reaches and along the Alaknanda River. At a local level, each such committee is called Gram Jalagam Samiti. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/chipko-movement-was-about-rightful-access-to-resources-says-ramesh-pahari-101711283948191.html (24 March 2024)
Fifty years ago, women in a Himalayan village gave the agitation a clear vision. Their protest transformed environmental activism beyond the mountains. (Shekhar Pathak) https://www.hindustantimes.com/opinion/once-upon-a-time-in-reni-the-flagbearers-of-chipko-101711203091929.html (23 March 2024) Chipko movement had two distinct waves with different priorities, said Vijay Jardhari, adding that women participated more actively than men on the ground level and various movements that sprung out of Chipko continue to be active in Uttarakhand. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/chipko-movement-had-two-distinct-waves-women-were-more-active-vijay-jardhari-101711291030401.html (24 March 2024) Today, the region is very different. Framed by rugged peaks and bare stony mountain faces, Raini village appears deserted, save for a smattering of langurs and dogs. Most young people, including Juthi and her husband Chander Singh’s children and grandchildren, have left for the plains. (Jayashree Nandi) https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/unsung-heroes-of-chipko-movement-women-look-to-gain-rightful-place-101711135564046.html (23 March 2024) This is the 51st anniversary of the Chipko movement that happened at Mandal but the 50th anniversary of the Raini movement, Bhatt said. The victory for Raini’s forests did not come easy. The movement had already started gaining ground in Gopeshwar, Mandal, Phata-Rampur (all around Chamoli) before it reached Raini. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/how-raini-s-women-stood-up-against-company-men-to-save-forests-101711355010929.html (25 March 2024)
HYDRO POWER PROJECTS
Arunachal Pradesh SIFF demands rollback of NHPC CSR funds More than 1,500 people, under the banner of the Siang Indigenous Farmer’s Forum (SIFF), in a mass gathering here on Saturday (March 23) adopted a five-point resolution, demanding “immediate rollback of the CSR funds allocated by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) to the Siang and the Upper Siang district administrations.”
Expressing opposition to the construction of a dam on the Siang river, SIFF executive body members and the public expressed concern over “possible corruption with the NHPC CSR fund of Rs 16.61 crore to the Siang district administration, and Rs 94.29 crore to the Upper Siang district administration, as CSR funds should not be exercised over government schemes as per the guidelines of the Companies Act, 2013.” They also demanded “immediate transfer of the deputy commissioners of the two districts.”
Other resolutions that were adopted included boycotting the Aadi Ba:ne Kebang “over permission of PFR (pre-feasibility report) on the proposed 11,000 MW Siang dam,” constituting an independent inquiry committee “to check corruption in the Siang and the Upper Siang district administrations,” and conducting a public hearing with the residents of the villages that will be affected by the proposed 11,000 MW Siang dam. The SIFF said that “the public will resort to indefinite, peaceful sit-in protest in case of non-fulfillment of the demands within a week.” https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2024/03/25/siff-demands-rollback-of-nhpc-csr-funds-allocated-to-2-dists/ (25 March 2024)
A public rally and awareness on indigenous tribal right was conducted on saturday 23 March by Siang indigenous farmer’s forum at parong village Siang district. Motto: “No election with NHPC money” Charter of demands: -1) Immediate roll back of CSR fund. 2) Immediate transfer of DC Siang and DC upper siang under three days and to constitute high level inquiry committee against both to prevent corrupt practices in the public administration. 3) Stop unethical laundering of NHPC money in general election by DC Siang and DC upper siang. 4) Immediate constitution of public hearing. 5) Stop selling adi land, stop selling the sentiment of Adis. https://fb.watch/r0Lm2e0xnJ/ (24 March 2024)
Report Reservoir levels slide -India’s hydro generation in the 10 months from the beginning of the current financial year which began last April is down 17% despite strong electricity demand. Hydropower generation in Asia has plunged at the fastest rate in decades amid sharp declines in China and India. https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/india-stares-at-summer-water-crisis-as-reservoir-levels-slide-12488251.html (19 March 2024)
Ladakh Sonam on fast unto death Disillusionment and anger are palpable on the freezing streets of Ladakh capital Leh, where climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has been sitting on fast for nearly two weeks. “People are asking whether declaring Ladakh a Union Territory was a ploy to sell of our mountains to industrial lobby and mining companies,” he told NDTV. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ploy-to-sell-our-mountains-activist-on-union-territory-tag-for-ladakh-5264681 (19 March 2024) Drawing parallels between Delhi and the ecologically sensitive Ladakh, Wangchuk proposed “giving nature a voice” in the highest policymaking body of the country, saying that ecological concerns must be given a fair representation. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/j-k/into-third-week-of-fast-sonam-wangchuk-says-need-to-represent-nature-in-parl-604036 (24 March 2024) Sonam Wangchuk’s 21-day climate fast may have its political reasons, but the region’s extreme weather events have been a matter of concern for climatologists for some time now. Ladakh is already witnessing the impacts of climate change, Sonam Lotus, head of the Meteorological Centre (Leh), IMD said. Ladakh is a rain shadow area but the region received 27 mm rain in 24 hours during July 2023. While this amount might be minuscule for major cities in the plains, the average monthly rainfall for July is 15 mm, and the average annual rainfall for this region is 100mm, IMD data shows. https://www.hindustantimes.com/environment/why-sonam-wangchuks-climate-fast-is-an-opportunity-to-look-at-ladakhs-delicate-future-101711219181147.html (24 March 2024) The main demand of the groups is to include Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which contains provisions regarding the administration of tribal areas in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram. It allows for local communities to have a significant say in how these area are administered. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/wangchukled-groups-in-ladakh-demand-constitutional-protection-under-6th-schedule-101711310535649.html (25 March 2024)
Green Humour by Rohan Chakravarty on the climate protest in Ladakh. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/green-humour-rohan-chakravarty-ongoing-ladakh-climate-protest/article67963644.ece (21 March 2024)
DAMS
Kaleshwaram Project NDSA grills engineers The team of experts from the National Dam Safety Authority (NDA) is reported to have grilled engineers from the Central Design Organisation of the state irrigation department, and representatives of contracting companies that build the three Kaleshwaram project barrages at Medigadda, Annaram and Sundilla, on March 20 2024.
– Though the CDO engineers may have informed the NDSA that they did not take outside help for designs, minutes a meeting that was chaired by the then chief minister K. Chandrashekar Rao that was attended by representatives of the contracting companies, and irrigation department engineers in January 2019, make it clear that the then CM gave instructions that the size of flood dissipation blocks may be increased as suggested by the company contracted to build the Medigadda barrage in order to speed up the works.
– Afcons, which built the Annaram barrage, and L&T, which built the Medigadda barrage, had pointed out to how the designs, especially of structures dealing with flood waters, were discovered to be grossly inadequate resulting in them getting washed off in the floods, which in turn weakened the sand and soil under the foundation resulting in the sinking at Medigadda and the leaks at Annaram barrages. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/news/national-dam-safety-authority-grills-engineers-on-kaleshwaram-project-barrages-886061 (21 March 2024)
The team also asked the officials to submit more information for further studies to reach a final conclusion on the barrages. The irrigation officials, on their part, proposed that all the gates of three barrages — Medigadda, Annaram and Sundilla — should be opened during flood season to avoid further damages. Though the timeline for the expert team to submit its report to the NDSA was four months, the state government requested it to submit the preliminary report within a month. The state government would decide the future course of action once the NDSA submitted its recommendations based on the expert committee’s report. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2024/Mar/23/ndsa-team-grills-ts-officials-on-steps-taken-to-protect-barrages (23 March 2024)
Officials explain flaws in Sundilla design to NDSA team On March 20 2024, the irrigation officials reportedly informed the team that certain aspects were ignored while designing the Sundilla barrage. The officials are said to have informed the expert committee that the construction of gates of Sundilla barrage were completed in January, 2019. However, in the 2019 floods, the downstream protection works were washed away due to velocity of water and the situation remains same during every flood season.
According to sources, the officials explained to the visiting team that for Sundilla downstream energy dissipation works were designed considering high tailwater level (TWL), resulting in low velocities. But in practice due to inadequate TWL, the velocities developed downstream at lower discharges are ranging from 16 m/s to 20 m/s for which the design and model studies were not done. They said that they even engaged independent consultant to study the barrage. The studies suggested there was a need for an extended apron downstream to protect the barrages. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2024/Mar/21/telangana-irrigation-officials-explain-flaws-in-sundilla-design-to-ndsa-team (21 March 2024)
NDSA team to hold detailed interactions with stakeholders A team of NDSA experts will take up its second visit for three days from March 20 to 22. The team is planning to hold detailed interaction meetings at Hyderabad with all the stakeholders including the work agencies responsible for various aspects of three barrages of Kaleshwaram Project. The NDSA committee conducted preliminary inspection of the three barrages from March 6 to 9 and interacted with the authorities/engineers concerned.
– The team is expected to interact with officers/engineers pertaining to project planning, general and detailed project report preparation, hydrology, investigation, central design organisation, construction, quality control, inspection, operation and maintenance, State Dam Safety Organisation of the Irrigation Department, investigation and construction agencies, individual experts, institutions and others. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/ndsa-team-to-hold-detailed-interactions-with-kaleshwaram-stakeholders/article67969188.ece (19 March 2024)
Barrages problems back in focus The NDSA is beginning a second round of meetings with Telangana irrigation department officials. The NDSA team, which is arrived in the city on Wednesday (March 20), is expected to be in Hyderabad for three days and meet with officials involved in all aspects of construction and maintenance of the severely damaged Medigadda barrage, and the Annaram barrage which has repeatedly sprung serious leaks from under its foundation, as well as those involved in construction of the Sundilla barrage. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/ndsa-team-back-for-detailed-questioning-of-officials-contractors-885887 (20 March 2024)
Goa ‘Selaulim & Anjunem dams won’t be desilted’ Water resources department (WRD) has decided to discard the plan of desilting the Anjunem, Selaulim and Mhaisal dams after a study has found hard rock below the basins of these reservoirs.
“A WRD study has found hard rock below the reservoirs, and no silt. The desilting of these dams is not required though govt has planned it earlier to enhance the storage capacity,” water resources minister Subhash Shirodkar said. However, WRD will clear ridges that have formed upstream of Mhaisal dam as well as some silt that has accumulated at the mouth of the catchment area of Selaulim dam, Shirodkar said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/selaulim-and-anjunem-dams-wont-be-desilted/articleshow/108657801.cms (21 March 2024)
Sardar Sarovar Project Meet to discuss MP’s claim of ₹7600cr damages from Guj An arbitration will be held in Bhopal to discuss Madhya Pradesh govt’s demand of a compensation of Rs 7,600 crore from Gujarat govt for the submergence of state-run mines, revenue land and forests that were submerged in the backwaters of Sardar Sarovar Dam (SSD). MP officials expect a settlement at the Bhopal arbitration on March 21-22. Similar meetings have been held in New Delhi, Ahmedabad and Indore. Gujarat is sending a 12-member team, said officials in Bhopal.
– Compensation for acquisition of private land, houses and other structures has been paid, but there has been no payout yet for submergence of mines and revenue and forest land in four districts of MP’s Nimar region, officials of Narmada Valley Development Authority (NVDA) say. Three years ago, MP govt approached Gujarat to pay Rs 7,600 crore as compensation for mines and revenue and forests that were submerged in 178villages of Dhar, Khargone, Barwani and Alirajpur dists. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhopal/madhya-pradeshs-rs-7600-crore-claim-against-gujarat-bhopal-arbitration-meeting/articleshow/108629725.cms (20 Mar 2024)
Madhya Pradesh Sleemanabad canal tunnel to dominate LS Poll About 184 000 ha will get irrigation water in Rewa, Satna, Katni, Maihar and other districts once the Sleemanabad canal tunnel (a part of Bargi Dam Project) is completed. About Rs 600 crore has already been spent and works worth over Rs 200 crore are yet to be completed. The work is expected to be completed in one year. Now 1440 meters is left for this tunnel. The geological condition inside the ground slowed down the pace of construction of this canal with 12 km length and 10 m dia. This canal had to pass through a town named Sleemanabad, which is situated on a hill. https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!bharat/indias-largest-water-tunnel-in-madhya-pradesh-12-km-long-sleemanabad-canal-enn24031807419 (18 March 2024)
Rajasthan Water Resources Dept has started giving dam wise water storage situation for each storage in each dist, including large, medium & Small projects, above 4.25 MCM & for projects with capacity below 4.25 MCM. Currently information is available for Mar 15 2024 & Feb 29 2024. https://jankalyanfile.rajasthan.gov.in/Content/UploadFolder/OrderEntry/WR/2024/Departmental_Activities/O_150324_b1514a11-4fd0-4eed-b9fc-efe4b7f38f70.pdf
First dedicated portal launched for real time infor on water in dams, canals A first-ever dedicated portal launched in Jaipur last week will provide real time information on the water level in dams and reservoirs and the quantity of water available in canals in different parts of Rajasthan. The portal is expected to help in an efficient water management and facilitate prediction of floods and drought.
The WRD has developed the system under the National Hydrology Project. Water Resources Minister Suresh Singh Rawat said the real time information on the availability of water would immensely benefit the farmers, who would plan their crop cycles and irrigation accordingly. This will be especially helpful in a rain-deficient State like Rajasthan. The monitoring of rainfall, waterlogging, temperature, ground water status and availability of surface water would help in a better and sustainable management of water resources in the State, Mr. Rawat said. The portal will provide full data of 805 dams, daily data of 242 dams and live data of 88 dams. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/first-dedicated-portal-launched-for-real-time-information-on-water-in-dams-canals/article67968922.ece (19 March 2024)
Tamil Nadu Invasive trees at Marudaiyaru dam need to be removed Almost 95% of construction works of the reservoir across Marudaiyar at Kottarai village in Alathur taluk has been completed except for the branch irrigation canal, said sources. According to sources, the ‘seemai karuvelam’ trees absorb excess ground water and cannot shelter birds as it produces less oxygen and more carbon dioxide. This invasive plant along with other dry trees has overgrown in many parts of the dam, absorbing the rainwater supposed to be stored in the dam. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2024/Mar/22/invasive-seemai-karuvelam-trees-at-marudaiyaru-dam-need-to-be-removed-demand-residents (22 March 2024)
INTERLINKING OF RIVERS
Ken-Betwa Linking PM said ‘no’ to laying foundation Prime Minister has issued instructions that there should be a time limit to complete a project once its foundation is laid, and there should not be any hurdles in completing the work. The reason why Modi did not lay the foundation of the Ken-Betwa link project is because the tender for Daudhan dam was not finalised. Its foundation will be laid only when the Lok Sabha election is over. The Ken-Betwa Link Project Authority floated its tender, and its technical bid was opened on March 11. Only after the financial bid, the name of the company getting the contract for the work will be clear, which may take some time. https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/mp-tender-not-finalised-pm-said-no-to-laying-ken-betwa-project-foundation (21 March 2024)
INTERSTATE WATER DISPUTES
Cauvery Water Disputes SC frames issues in Karnataka’s Cauvery suit In an original suit by Karnataka against States/UT of Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Pondicherry over use of Cauvery river water, the Supreme Court on Mar 19 framed issues (8 in number) and directed parties to file documents within 6 weeks. The matter is next listed for directions on May 7, 2024. https://www.livelaw.in/top-stories/supreme-court-cauvery-water-bifurcation-karnataka-tamil-nadu-suit-issues-framed-252863 (20 March 2024)
URBAN RIVERS
Lucknow Living & Lost rivers Venkatesh Dutta: Working on the older satellite pictures of Lucknow, starting from 1966, I came across several rivers, wetlands and lakes in Lucknow. One only knows of Gomti river passing through the city, but besides this there were nine other rivers which were very important in terms of drainage. They also provided crucial support to livelihoods such as irrigation, fisheries and floriculture. I have traced their courses and documented them in a book. While two rivers have been wiped out recently, six of them are now known as drains. A short article is published today in the Times of India, 24th March 2024.
GW level crucial for Kukrail According to the article, the river has been killed due to groundwater extraction. The article does not say what it is being extracted for, irrigation or drinking water. Experts are calling for severe restrictions on extraction, but are still not sure it will revive the river.
Houses and showrooms in Akbarnagar built on the riverbed are being evicted with rehabilitation through alternate housing sites, supposedly on liberal terms. Whether all the evictees will actually be rehabilitated as per this plan remains to be seen. But eviction is a certainty. All in the name of reviving a river without certainty of its revival. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/revival-of-kukrail-river-in-lucknow-groundwater-level-crucial-for-success/articleshow/108126662.cms (01 March 2024)
Netravati; Mangaluru RFD: NGT seeks report on CRZ, green norms violations Recognising the seriousness of the environmental and social issues associated with the project, NGT has taken suo motu cognisance and directed the formation of a joint committee to submit a detailed report on the project. The Netravati Waterfront Promenade Project has been mired in controversy due to alleged violations of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms and environmental regulations. Managed by Mangaluru Smart City Ltd (MSCL), the project has faced criticism for its potential adverse effects on the environment and the livelihoods of local communities.
The primary objective of MSCL and its contracting agencies in filling soil in the intertidal zone is to acquire extra land for the project, as there is a lack of government or port land, and subsequently create sketches and plans for the project based on the available land. Furthermore, there is no EIA report prepared for this project, which is crucial in evaluating its potential environmental effects, especially considering that the estuary is just a km away from the project site. The site is home to old trees and mangroves, serving as a natural feeding and breeding ground for various animals, birds, fish, crabs, molluscs and other marine life.
NECF and various other environmental organisations have demanded an immediate halt to the project in this area due to CRZ-2011 norms and violations in conditional CRZ clearance granted by KSCZMA. “There is clear evidence that the work is being carried out by the contractors and the principals without several clearances from the agencies, which is a glaring incidence of violation of the rules, which is why we want a joint inquiry to be conducted between MSCL, CRZ officers, Forest departments, pollution control board officers, and NECF members.” “Protection of the Netaravati River, which serves as a lifeline for the coastal district, is more important to citizens than fancy cycle tracks and walking paths, wasting Rs 70 crore of taxpayers’ money for just a 2.1 km stretch that has no plans, no sketches, no public hearing and no EIA done for this project by MSCL,” according to the appeal made to Khandre. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/water/netravati-riverfront-project-ngt-takes-cognisance-of-crz-environmental-norm-violation-allegations-seeks-report-95189 (22 March 2024)
Mutha; Pune River at Kavadipat in filthy state Since the last few days, the Mula-Mutha rivers are getting dirty due to pollution. Mahashir, a very rare fish, recently died in Indrayani due to this. Now, foam has started appearing at Kavadipat. This situation has arisen due to the fact that every day chemically contaminated water goes into the river from houses. https://www.mypunepulse.com/pune-mutha-river-at-kavadipat-in-filthy-state-garbage-water-hyacinth-on-one-side-foam-on-other/#google_vignette (21 March 2024)
Residents slam PMC over water hyacinths The rivers in Pune city are grappled with water hyacinths the Pune Municipal Corporation took up the task of clearing the hyacinths in Mula-Mutha riverbed in Kharadi. However, the residents of Manjri village allege that instead of disposing of the hyacinths which was removed from the river, the civic authorities reintroduced the hyacinths in the river in Kharadi and Mundhwa-Keshavnagar which led to numerous issues caused by water hyacinths in the Manjari Village. https://www.lokmattimes.com/maharashtra/pune-residents-slam-pmc-over-unbearable-issues-caused-by-water-hyacinths-a517 (14 March 2024)
Chennai Schemes to restore Cooum, Adyar rivers up in the air The State government has yet to devise an action plan to enhance the water quality of the Cooum River, despite the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) report labelling it as the most polluted river in the country. The pollution control board had been given the responsibility of preparing action plans for the Cooum and Adyar rivers, states an official from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB), on condition of anonymity. “The action plans can be prepared only by collating action plans of other departments like Chennai Corporation, Metro Water (Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board), Water Resources Department and others. But most of the major stakeholder departments are yet to submit their plans,” the official confided.
The Chief Secretary of the State, Shiv Das Meena has called for a meeting next week to review the progress in action plan preparation, according to the sources. The action plans will be submitted to the CPCB for approval after completion. The action plans for Sarabanga, Thirumanimutharu, Vasista, Cauvery, Bhavani and Thamiraparani rivers have been approved by the CPCB and the line departments have undertaken the implementation of action plans, he had said. On the other hand, the state government allocated Rs 1,500 crore to restore and beautify the Adyar River through Chennai Rivers Restoration Trust under a public-private partnership. The government has also earmarked Rs 5 crore for the riverfront development of Vaigai, Cauvery, Thamirabarani and Noyyal rivers. https://www.dtnext.in/news/city/schemes-to-restore-cooum-adyar-rivers-up-in-the-air-771714 (04 March 2024)
RIVERS
Parineeta Dandekar of SANDRP to inaugurate the online RamNadi festival in Pune on March 26-27-28, 2024.
Meghalaya River rejuvenation work leaves lot to be desired The river rejuvenation project of Meghalaya government leaves a lot to be desired as RTI findings state that funds to the tune of over Rs 52 crore have been earmarked for this endeavour, while more than Rs 21 crore has been sanctioned and tender floated in this regard, but nothing much has been reflected on the field. https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/03/25/river-rejuvenation-work-leaves-lot-to-be-desired/ (25 March 2024)
Report Land of 5 rivers called Punjaub in Australia -Several newspaper items preserved in Australia’s national archives show that the area was formally named Punjaub in 1880, and it was specifically given this name because, much like the Indian state of Punjab, it had five rivers that flowed through it – Logan, Albert, Pimpania, Coomera and Nerang.
-There seems to be a discrepancy in the names of the rivers that flow through the Punjaub station in Queensland. The current maps of Queensland clearly show that these five rivers flow through the Gold Coast, and not through the Punjaub station, which is close to the Gulf of Carpentaria. The most recent map shows the rivers Gregory, Nicholson, Bearnes Brook, One Mile Creek and Archie Creek traversing the Punjaub station in today’s Queensland. https://www.sbs.com.au/language/punjabi/en/article/there-is-a-land-of-five-rivers-called-punjaub-right-here-in-australia/mwb73mkqg (18 Jan. 2024)
Odisha Mahanadi, which used to be dry only in May-June is increasingly drying up in January only according to a number of researches. No Rainwater harvesting systems and lack of e-flows are major reasons, besides more dams and groundwater use.
GANGA Uttarakhand Firm building Silkyara tunnel gave 55cr to BJP Navayuga Engineering Co Ltd, which built the Uttarkashi Tunnel which collapsed in 2023, trapping 41 workers, donated at least Rs 55 crore to the BJP in 2019 and 2022, as per the latest electoral bond data released by the ECI. It is pertinent to note that no action has been taken so far against Navayuga Engineering in the 2023 Uttarkashi Tunnel Collapse case. https://www.thequint.com/news/politics/navayuga-behind-collapsed-uttarkashi-tunnel-donated-55-crore-to-bjp#read-more (21 March 2024)
Bihar Worker killed as under-construction bridge collapses At least one worker was killed and eight others were injured when a portion of an under-construction bridge collapsed in Supaul on Friday (March 22) morning, district magistrate Kaushal Kumar said. Unconfirmed reports, however, state that more than 40 labourers were working when three pillars of the longest under-construction road bridge in the country, collapsed at around 7:30 am. So far, nine of them have been rescued.
-The 10.2 km long bridge, which is being built over the Kosi river and connects Supaul and Madhubani districts, is being built for the National Highways Authority of India (NHA) by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highway (MoRTH). Two companies – Gammon India and Trans Rail Lighting Limited – are jointly working on the project which costs ₹984 crore. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/patna-news/portion-of-under-construction-bridge-collapses-in-bihars-supaul-101711078556596.html (22 March 2024)
YAMUNA Delhi Floodplains will be demarcated soon: Govt to NGT Floodplain demarcation work still ongoing in Delhi. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/yamuna-floodplains-will-be-demarcated-soon-govt-to-ngt-101710956503890.html (21 March 2024)
NGT: Re-examine source of water contamination After an NGT-constituted committee found contamination in water samples from 180 societies in Dwarka, the tribunal has directed Delhi Pollution Control Committee to re-examine the source of contamination and reason for presence of ammoniacal nitrogen and total dissolved solid in samples. A report filed in NGT on May 17, 2023, stated that of 354 societies in Dwarka, water samples from 180 were found contaminated with ammoniacal nitrogen and total dissolved solid due to faulty rainwater harvesting systems.
“An action taken report dated January 4 has been filed by the DPCC which reiterates the fact that 180 samples were found to be contaminated primarily on account of presence of ammoniacal nitrogen and total dissolved solid… contamination was found due to presence of organic matter and mixing of society waste in RWA pits. The reason disclosed for the same was that common pipelines for rooftop rainwater harvesting structures and wastewater emanating from washing machines and floor washing areas were found to be connected,” observed the bench headed by Justice Prakash Shrivastava. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/ngt-directs-delhi-pollution-control-committee-to-re-examine-water-contamination-in-dwarka/articleshow/106712833.cms (11 Jan. 2024)
Rajasthan NGT seeks report on Sahibi river check dams The NGT has directed Rajasthan chief secretary to file an affidavit as to whether any check dams have been constructed on Sahibi river and what is the status of flow of water in the same during different periods to Haryana border. It has issued the directions while hearing a petition filed by local resident Prakash Yadav alleging that dirty water was being discharged in hundreds of acres of vacant land of dried-up Sahabi river, leading to contamination of ground water and damage to trees and other vegetation. The NGT had maintained that Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi must coordinate and cooperate for rejuvenation of interstate Sahibi river so that catchment area of the river is harnessed and minimum flow is maintained to restore its ecology and aquatic life.
– Similarly, the Chief Secretary of Delhi has also been directed to file an affidavit as to whether Najafgarh drain was at any point of time known as Sahibi river and whether the same can be renamed as Sahibi River for generating people’s support to its rejuvenation and as to what remedial measures are required to be taken for rejuvenation of the Sahibi apart from treatment of sewage and tapping of the sewage drains falling in it. The chief secretaries of both the states have been asked to file their affidavits within two months and the next date of the hearing in the case has been fixed as May 13. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/ngt-asks-rajasthan-to-file-report-on-sahibi-river-check-dams-602012 (18 March 2024)
Delhi; UP; Haryana River cries: Go deeper into rot, NGT tells 3 states The NGT has observed that reports from Delhi, UP and Haryana governments on the rejuvenation of the Yamuna must disclose each drain’s quantity of treated and untreated discharge and the number of sewage treatment plants set up. The tribunal directed the governments to re-submit their reports after finding “deficiencies” in it. The governments were asked to produce information on the drains that discharged wastewater into the river, the operational STPs and their capacities, areas that were not under a sewage network system, measures taken to utilise treated wastewater for non-contact purposes and the plan for restoration of the Yamuna floodplain.
“We find that the requisite information which is necessary for ascertaining the factual situation has not been disclosed,” the NGT said. Last October, the green tribunal, which was hearing a plea on the river’s rejuvenation, sought several details from the three state governments. On Delhi’s report, the green court noted that out of 22 drains meeting the Yamuna, only nine drains have been tapped and untapped 13 drains are still discharging huge quantities of sewage. It was also noted that Najafgarh and Shahdara drains, which are the major sources of sewage discharge (507.4 MGD), are said to be not feasible for interception. No timeline is disclosed for the completion of Interceptor Sewer Project to divert the flow of these two drains. https://www.newindianexpress.com/thesundaystandard/2024/Jan/14/yamuna-cries-go-deeper-into-rot-ngt-tells-3-states-2650751.html (14 Jan. 2024)
FISH, FISHERIES, FISHERFOLKS
Manipur Loktak fishers observe International Rivers Day To mark the International Rivers Day 2024, Loktak fishers on Thursday a cleaning drive along waterways connecting the lake shore from the Ningthoukhong project canal point up to Champu Khangpok floating island village to clear invasive weeds from Loktak Lake. The drive was taken up as clearing invasive weeds is contributory service to the global campaign on addressing freshwater aquatic ecosystem restoration as part of the worldwide event for the International Rivers Day 2024. The clean-up drive was held under the initiative of the All Loktak Lake Areas Fishers Union, Manipur (ALLAFUM). https://thefrontiermanipur.com/loktak-fishers-observe-international-rivers-day/ (14 March 2024)
Gujarat નર્મદા નદીની ભરૂચની કુવારી જમીન ભાજપને લોકસભામાં ભરખી જશે? Thousands of fisher people and others oppose the shocking proposal of govt to hand over 18.49 sqkm area to salt industrialists in Narmada delta. They have submitted a memorandum to the collector. It is also an issue in Bharuch Parliamentary seat.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuIfDuKnE6M (18 March 2024)
Report Tilapia, a highly invasive fish, found growing in marine waters Tilapia are a host of tropical freshwater fish species belonging to the Cichlidae family and are native to Africa and the southwestern Middle East. Some species among them are high in demand in the aquaculture industry due to their low disease rate and prolific breeding. The Mozambique tilapia, for instance, was among the first species introduced for aquaculture in India during the 1950s, primarily for their protein. Since then, various tilapia species have been farmed at the industrial level. The total tilapia production in 2022 was estimated to be about 70,000 tonnes, with 30,000 from aquaculture alone, according to a joint study by WorldFish and the Confederation of Indian Industry. India has also set an ambitious goal to produce 0.766 million metric tonnes of tilapia by 2027. Unintended releases and escapes from aquaculture pens have resulted in their widespread presence across freshwater habitats in India, including streams, lakes, and backwaters. They dominate waterways like the Ganga and Yamuna rivers and can even be found in the biodiversity-rich Andaman Islands and Western Ghats.
“Most invasive species exhibit plasticity and are able to adapt to changing climatic conditions,” notes A.K. Singh, Emeritus Scientist at the ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow. Plasticity refers to their ability to adapt anatomically to new environments. Once established, however, tilapia become a threat to native species and ecosystems. This has prompted their inclusion in the National Biodiversity Authority’s list of invasive alien species of India, despite their economic significance. However, there was previously little information available on the diet and habitat ecology of tilapia during new invasions. https://india.mongabay.com/2024/03/tilapia-a-highly-adaptable-and-invasive-fish-found-growing-in-marine-waters/ (19 March 2024)
Himachal Pradesh Drop in fish production due to floods The Economic Survey report for the year 2023-24 revealed that the total fish production in the state dropped substantially in 2023 for the first time in more than a decade, mainly because of the unprecedented floods during 2023 monsoon. As per the report, the total fish production decreased from around 17,026 metric tonne (MT) in 2022 to 11,377 MT in 2023, a drop of 33.4%. The total monetary value of the fish which stood at Rs 261.5 crore in 2022 also came down to Rs 179.49 crore in 2023, a drop of 50%. “The unprecedented floods last year washed away many fish farms and destroyed breeding and feeding grounds of the fish. The destruction was at a massive scale that caused losses to not only farm owners but also impacted the overall fish production,” said Bhupinder Kumar, deputy director, fisheries department.
– There are over 50 fish species that are produced and found in the waters of Himachal Pradesh, but the trout is the most popular of them all. However, trout production has also been decreasing for the last many years due to a number of reasons, including massive construction activities near rivers, rapid urbanisation and illegal and destructive means of fishing. The trout production in the state has dropped gradually from the highest 19.18 tonne in 2012-13 to 7.72 tonne in 2023-24. Introduced by the British in the 1890s, two trout varieties are found in Himachal Pradesh — brown trout (Salmo Trutta Fario) and rainbow trout (Salmo Gairdneri). https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/shimla/seo-impact-hp-records-drop-in-fish-production-due-to-floods/articleshow/108571318.cms (18 March 2024)
SAND MINING
Haryana Preserve fertile farmland, do not permit mining: NGT experts A panel of experts, formed on the orders of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), have recommended that “mining should not be allowed in any case on fertile agricultural land as there is no possibility of replenishment”. The NGT is hearing a case related to mining on agricultural land at Jaidhar and Mandewala villages in Yamunanagar. The panel was asked to look into all relevant aspects of sand mining on agricultural land in Haryana and make recommendations regarding environmental safeguards.
– Representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Central Pollution Control Board; Indian Agricultural Research Institute; Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Dehradun; Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar; and Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal; and Haryana State Pollution Control Board were part of the panel.
– On altering hydrological balance, it added, “Disruption of natural drainage patterns due to sand mining can lead to water-logging. Sedimentation from shallow mining activities can pollute surface water bodies. Deep mining of sand and gravel, as was observed in the visited surrounding area, removes an important water filtering layer. For excessively mined land, chemicals in the runoff can pollute the groundwater aquifers.” The report further pointed out, “Large-scale sand mining can result in land subsidence, where the ground sinks due to the removal of underlying materials. If an adequate buffer zone is not provided between one farmer’s mined land, the adjoining land can also erode over time. The natural replenishment of sand is not possible in the mined area which is not on the riverbed. Jaidhar and Mandewala sites are not on the riverbed, so replenishment is highly unlikely.”
– Before permitting mining on agricultural land, the panel says it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive environmental impact assessment. This assessment should evaluate the potential impacts on soil fertility, water resources, biodiversity and local ecosystems. The panel noticed crops like sugarcane and wheat with popular agroforestry at fields in Jaidhar which reflected soil being fertile. At Mandewala, the wheat crop was found during inspection. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/preserve-fertile-farmland-in-haryana-do-not-permit-mining-ngt-experts-602657 (20 March 2024)
Himachal Pradesh New Mineral Policy The govt on Feb 29 2024 notified the Himachal Pradesh Mineral Policy 2024, replacing the earlier Mineral Policy 2013. The revised policy brings in several changes including increasing the depth of the pit to extract minerals from riverbeds or streambeds to allowing machines to mine minerals. The objectives of the new policy as mentioned are:
a. To explore mineral wealth of the State and to carry out its exploitation by adopting scientific and mechanical techniques with adequate safeguards to protect environment and ecology.
b. To increase the employment opportunities in the mining sector, by granting sustainably adequate mineral concessions in the State.
c. To take effective measures to curb illegal mining and leakages of revenue.
d. To prepare an integrated On-line portal for regulating the mining activities in a fair transparent manner.
e. To promote value addition through promotion of processing units and mineral based industries in the State.
f. To simplify the procedures and rules to make regulatory environment conducive to ease of doing business.
g. To adhere to the orders/directions issued by the SC, HC, NGT and other guidelines issued by the MoEF Government of India, for exploitation of minor minerals.
This will make HP even more vulnerable to disasters. The state has been witnessing frequent disasters such as landslides, cloud bursts, flash floods and excessive rains.
New policy: Dig deeper, earn more Increasing the depth of the pit to extract minerals from riverbeds or streambeds from 1 metre to 2 metres, allowing machines to mine the minerals, permitting the manufacturing of M-Sand, and okaying the registration of new stone crushers near hydel or road projects are some of the important takeaways in the newly notified Himachal Pradesh Mineral Policy-2024. The new mineral policy, replacing the 11-year-old Mineral Policy-2013, was approved on February 29, the CM said on Wednesday (March 20).
The new mineral policy bars mining up to a distance of 5 metres from the riverbanks. Also, no river/stream bed mining will be allowed within 75 metres from the periphery of soil conservation works, nursery plantations and check dams.
There are seven mega cement units in the state – four in Solan district, two in Bilaspur district, and one in Sirmour district. Apart from these, five mini cement plants have also been set up. Further, more than 100 lime-based units like poultry feed, limestone powder, calcium carbonate, hydrated lime etc. have been set up in Himachal Pradesh. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/himachal-pradesh-notifies-new-mineral-policy-to-curb-illegal-mining-boost-revenue-9212361/ (14 March 2024)
Odisha NGT panel to probe illegal sand mining in Baitarani NGT has constituted a four-member fact-finding committee to examine allegations of mining beyond lease area and excess extraction by the lessee of Utteipur sand quarry 2 in Baitarani river under Dhamnagar tehsil of Bhadrak district. The bench of B Amit Sthalekar (Judicial Member) and Arun Kumar Verma (Expert Member) said, “Considering the allegations made, we deem it appropriate to constitute a fact-finding committee to elicit the veracity of the allegations. The committee shall inspect the site in question and submit its report within four weeks.”
NGT’s felt the “matter requires consideration” and formed the committee on Wednesday (March 20) on the petition filed by Bhagabat Sahoo and four other residents of the area. The petitioners alleged use of machines (excavators) when permission is only for manual mining (only through labour and no machine to be used for mining the sand and mining during monsoon season while the same is banned). Advocate Sankar Prasad Pani and Advocate Ashutosh Padhy represented the petitioners. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2024/Mar/23/ngt-panel-to-probe-illegal-sand-mining-in-odishas-baitarani-river (23 March 2024)
Goa Check passes issued to sand trucks: HC The high court of Bombay at Goa asked the state govt to check whether fraudulent transport passes are being issued for transportation of sand. Norma Alvares, representing the Goa river sand protectors’ network, told the high court that one of the trucks carrying sand which was apprehended at Naroa, Bicholim last year produced a transit/transport pass which had neither a name nor signature of any official. The Bicholim police inspector (PI) had filed a report dated Oct 3, 2023 in the high court stating that the sand was brought from Kudal, Maharashtra and a transit pass issued at Patradevi checkpost to one Dinesh Pal dated June 23, 2023 at 1.02 am was produced. When inquiries were made with the directorate of mines and geology (DMG), it was revealed that the department hadn’t issued any pass, Alvares told the court.
The network submitted to the court that the confirmation from the department casts serious doubts on passes being flaunted by a number of trucks carrying sand, and appears that the passes are being fabricated. The network added that Goa Electronics Ltd (GEL) and DMG need to examine these passes to ensure that “govt is not being hoodwinked”. Attorney general (AG) Devidas Pangam said he would look into the issue and govt would take action accordingly. The network also submitted to the court that despite HC’s directions, the captain of ports (CoP) hadn’t destroyed any of the boats seized till date. None of the vessels were registered and if not destroyed, the vessels will again re-appear in the waters once the petition in HC is disposed of, the network added. The HC had directed the seized boats involved in illegal sand mining to be destroyed. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/check-passes-issued-to-sand-trucks-hc/articleshow/108597029.cms (19 March 2024)
Tamil Nadu HC dismisses plea to stop illegal sand mining activities Madras high court has dismissed a plea seeking to halt illegal sand mining activities in Pappakudi village, located in Sivaganga district. The court was hearing a PIL filed by U Chinnamari, who raised concerns about the unauthorized extraction of sand and its subsequent transportation using heavy vehicles for commercial purposes.
The sand-laden vehicles pass through a toll gate on the Madurai – Rameswaram Road at Tiruppachethi village. In light of the seriousness of the matter, the court had previously instructed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to provide CCTV footage from the toll gate to the district collector to investigate any illegal sand transportation. However, the collector’s report indicated that the vehicle registration numbers were not discernible from the CCTV footage. Furthermore, during inquiry, the petitioner failed to produce any relevant evidence or provide a statement. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/hc-dismisses-plea-to-stop-illegal-sand-mining-activities/articleshow/108741695.cms (24 Jan. 2024)
Telangana Follow rules on local use of sand: State to dist admins In response to the representations and grievances submitted by the rural population on the usage of sand locally, the state govt has directed all the district collectors to implement the Telangana State Sand Mining Rules, 2015 (TSSMR, 2015) strictly. District officials have been told to follow the instructions/ guidelines issued from time to time with regard to regulation of sand extraction and availability for local utilization. Collectors have been asked to initiate action against concerned officials, in case of any deviation. This move aims to address grievances and ensure sand availability for local needs. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/follow-rules-on-local-use-of-sand-state-to-dist-admins/articleshow/108740518.cms (24 March 2024)
WETLANDS, LAKES, WATER BODIES
Karnataka Govt promises to activate SWA, unveils portal The Wetlands Authority Karnataka on Wednesday (March 05) got its own web portal aimed at keeping track of over 17,000 waterbodies across the state with the government promising to set up a team of experts to activate the authority. Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Eshwar B Khandre said that the government has decided to recognise waterbodies spread over 2.25 hectares as wetlands. “More than 16,700 such wetlands have already been identified. We will work with the department concerned to declare them as wetlands,” he said. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/karnataka-government-promises-to-activate-wetlands-authority-unveils-portal-2924845 (06 March 2024)
WATER OPTIONS
SANDRP Blog WWD 2024: Top Ten Positive Water Stories from Urban India Marking World Water Day 2024, this report compiles top ten positive actions and initiatives by resident groups, organizations and local government bodies on water issues in urban India during the past one year. The report shows that joint and persistent efforts by citizen activists, experts and urban local bodies for protection and revival of water bodies including lakes, ponds, step-wells; optimum rain water harvesting and effective treatment of sewage can greatly resolve the water problems in Urban India. Undoubtedly, the most pressing issue is abysmal condition of waste water treatment and reuse of treated waste water in urban areas. https://sandrp.in/2024/03/22/world-water-day-2024-top-ten-positive-urban-water-stories-from-india/ (21 March 2024)
World Water Day 2024: Top Ten Positive Actions from Rural India On the occasion of World Water Day 2024, this report puts together the top ten positive water stories from Rural India during past one year.
The compilation underlines the successful collective actions from village communities in the creation, protection and revival of local water sources including ponds, lakes, tanks etc. which are far better, sustainable and cost-effective measures for meeting potable and irrigation water requirements at local levels. https://sandrp.in/2024/03/21/world-water-day-2024-top-ten-positive-actions-from-rural-india/ (21 March 2024)
Report Ministry board urges politicians to include water crisis in manifesto Political parties must include the ‘water crisis’ in their election manifesto when climate change is a real daunting existential crisis, said Shashi Shekhar, former secretary, of the MoWR, RD & GR at a day multi-stakeholder workshop titled, ‘Securing water in a time of climate change through natural ecosystems management’ held on March 21 in Mumbai organised by WOTR (Watershed Organisation Trust), Government of Maharashtra and India Climate Collaborative.
-“Maharashtra has 4000 dams that have dried up the rivers. Trillions of water is stored in reservoirs but how much is reaching to the farmers? Maharashtra never had sugarcane belt, it used to be Bihar, as this crop is not favourable to a dry climatic zone like Maharashtra. The government must preserve the natural ecosystem that includes wetlands, floodplains, mangroves and catchment areas; communities must do ground water supply and demand and canal irrigation should be converted into pipe and drip irrigation,” added Mr. Shekhar.
-Water management requires a holistic approach, beyond mere rainwater harvesting. It demands community-led initiatives, aided by government agencies employing remote sensing to identify optimal locations for such structures. Communities must understand their water resources to make informed decisions on usage, added Mr. Shekhar. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/ministry-board-urges-politicians-to-include-water-crisis-in-election-manifesto/article67977226.ece (22 March 2024)
Gujarat ‘Eco-friendly, low cost’ STP system installed Example of a decentralised, functioning STP in a village in Baroda. A unique decentralized multi-stage reactor (UDMSR) for sewage treatment was inaugurated at Luna village in Padra taluka of Vadodara on Wednesday (March 13). Sewage treated by the UDMSR can be directly used for agriculture and could be vital during a water crisis, especially in rural areas. Professor Upendra D Patel Patel, a PhD in environmental science and engineering from IIT Bombay, developed the technology after ten years of research. The low-cost pilot scale system, designed to treat 25 kilolitres per day, servicing a population of around 500 people, was inaugurated in presence of representatives of the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), Padra Industries Association and Farmers Action Group.
“The plant has been running continuously since Dec 2023. It has treated about 1.4 million litres of sewage with effluent COD and BOD ranging from 10-20 mg/l and 2-3 mg/l. The plant is also tested at 1.5 and two times its design flow capacity and its performance was found to be consistent,” he said. “Currently, there is no reliable technically appropriate system for collection and treatment of domestic sewage in rural areas. Raw domestic sewage in most villages flows into open channels to end up in a nearby pond or river. This causes significant worsening of water quality which renders these sources unfit for use,” said environment activist Rohit Prajapati, who was instrumental in getting the lab-scale technology installed at Padra through an MoU with GPCB. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vadodara/new-sewage-treatment-plant-in-vadodara-a-unique-decentralized-multi-stage-reactor-udmsr-inaugurated-at-luna-village/articleshow/108477970.cms (14 March 2024); https://www.counterview.net/2024/03/first-of-its-kind-eco-friendly-low-cost.html (March 2024)
Punjab Farmers using treated water According to the Department of Soil and Water Conservation, Punjab generates a staggering 2,200 MLD of sewage water, a significant portion of which was previously left untreated, leading to environmental degradation. Nevertheless, with advanced treatment facilities now in operation, 1,700 MLD of sewage water undergoes treatment daily. Out of this treated water, 330 MLD from 60 STPs installed in various urban centres is already being utilised for irrigation through underground pipelines laid by the department. This initiative has been irrigating over 10,000 hectares of farmland, with plans underway to increase this capacity to 600 MLD and area under 30,000 hecatres by the year’s end.
If all 2,200 MLD of sewage water in Punjab is utilised for irrigation, it can potentially save irrigation on at least 1.5 lakh hectares, making around 75,000 tube wells inactive. This would be a monumental achievement in water conservation, power saving, and the preservation of underground water resources. Similarly, with 15,000 ponds of sewage water in Punjab, and 5,000 ponds spread over two-acre land, the water from these ponds could irrigate a significant amount of land.
In 2014, several farmers at Rampura Phul village in Bathinda district opposed an STP treated water irrigation project due to the availability of underground water. However, by 2019, the situation had drastically changed, with people approaching the Soil Conservation Department to initiate the project. Similarly, in Phagwara, around 260 beneficiaries are utilising treated water from the Phagwara STP for irrigation purposes. Water from this STP is being used by farmers from four villages, Burna, Khangura, Kishanpur and Palahi, under a water user society, through several kilometres of underground pipes. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/groundwater-punjab-farms-water-seeds-of-success-9227871/ (22 March 2024)
Opinion Water is important for peace -The philosophies of the Global South like Swaraj (Asia), Buen Vivir (South America), Ubuntu (Africa) etc. offer alternative sustainable pathways to manage commons and help us gain cognitive peace, the most essential one for humanity. Any efforts, individual or communal, modern or traditional, global or local would likely fail until we free ourselves ‘cognitively’ of the ‘growth monster’ within ourselves. (Puneet Kumar) https://thewire.in/environment/world-water-day-2024-why-water-is-important-for-peace-at-an-individual-community-and-global-level (22 March 2024)
Bengaluru RWH park’s 14-year legacy Rainwater harvesting park set up by BWSSB over an acre in Bangalore entered 14th year on March 21 2024. It includes live demo models of 26 different RWH techniques. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/rainwater-harvesting-park-s-14-year-legacy-new-techniques-to-show-the-way-forward-2945742 (21 March 2024)
GROUNDWATER
Study Rising temp threaten tiny animals responsible for GW quality A new study compared temperatures inside 12 caves around the world with their respective surfaces, showing that average annual temperatures in underground systems tend to mirror those of the surface, but with far less variation. The researchers also found that while some caves follow outdoor temperatures with little or no delay, others have temperatures that are very asynchronous with the surface, being at their warmest when the world outside is at its coldest, and vice versa.
– Scientists also detected the existence of daily thermal cycles in the deepest sections of some caves, suggesting that such cycles might mark the circadian rhythms of cave-adapted organisms. The results indicate that underground fauna — with many species ill-adapted to handle large temperature variations — might be at threat due to climate change, and that their extinction might risk the water quality of aquifers worldwide.
– Just like the underwater depths, science still knows precious little about this vast kingdom that all of us, unsuspectingly, live above. And much of what we do know is due to a basic human need: water. Some scientists are turning their attention to how rising temperatures might impact underground ecosystems themselves. And for that, they’re using the most accessible doorway we have into the world below: caves. https://news.mongabay.com/2024/03/rising-temperatures-threaten-the-tiny-animals-responsible-for-groundwater-quality/ (18 March 2024)
Report File report with steps taken to curb GW pollution: NGT -The NGT last week directed the Central Groundwater Authority (CGWA) to submit another report, a second one, on “ground-level action” taken to counter arsenic and fluoride contamination across the country. The order came after a report by the central govt stated excess arsenic was detected in groundwater across 230 districts in 25 states, and fluoride in 469 districts across 27 states. In Haryana, groundwater contamination was detected in 20 districts.
-“No concrete steps have been reflected in the report by the CGWA disclosing the action taken to remediate the problem…” the bench of chairperson Prakash Shrivastava, judicial magistrate Sudhir Agarwal and expert member Dr A Senthil Vel said. It then directed the groundwater authority to submit a fresh report within six weeks, and all states and UTs have to file their responses in the same timeframe. The next hearing is scheduled for April 26. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/effective-steps-to-curb-groundwater-pollution-cgwa-report/articleshow/108598592.cms (19 March 2024)
Punjab Farmers drill deeper to install borewells in Doaba The Doaba region has already been flagged for concerns regarding groundwater depletion and contamination as well as being declared a dark zone due to incessant water use. Repeated floods, which have ravaged the region, aggravated underground water crisis in the region.
-Across the Shahkot, Sultanpur Lodhi and Gidderpindi areas, farmers are digging deeper to install borewell in their fields and homes. Their previous borewells got contaminated after polluted water entered their fields. Besides underground water was also contaminated by recent floods. The minimum depth at which a farmer can find fresh water has increased from whopping 450 feet to 500 feet in the area. From the year 2000 to 2019, anyone installing a borewell would dig upto a minimum of 100 to 150 feet.
-After the 2019 floods in the Sutlej River, farmers across the Lohian, Shahkot and Gidderpindi areas had dug deeper to install borewells as industrial effluents laced with flood water contaminated the groundwater. In 2023, they had to dig even deeper for borewells. Shahkot and Lohian situated on banks of the Sutlej are the worst hit areas compared to Sultanpur Lodhi which is situated on the banks of the Beas River. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/jalandhar/farmers-drill-deeper-to-install-borewells-as-floods-contaminate-groundwater-in-doaba-603907 (24 March 2024)
Odisha GW level of 9 blocks in semi-critical stage Not only in Old Bhubaneswar, the groundwater level is falling at an alarming rate in many parts of the Smart City. Data from the CGWB says that in 2020, the groundwater levels in six blocks of the state were in the semi-critical category. But by 2023, the number had risen to nine. That is, more than 70 per cent of the water that seeps into the ground in these blocks is being extracted.
-Water experts and environmentalists say urbanisation and misuse of groundwater are responsible for the depletion of groundwater levels in the state. In many towns, all areas are covered with paver blocks and concrete, so it becomes very difficult for the rainwater to get soaked in the ground. https://odishatv.in/news/odisha/groundwater-level-of-9-odisha-blocks-in-semi-critical-stage-experts-warn-bengaluru-like-situation-230465 (17 March 2024)
Maharashtra Understanding water & soil in drought-prone Jalna WELL Labs has partnered with the Environmental Defense Fund to scientifically evaluate JalTara, a water-saving intervention developed by the Save Groundwater Foundation in Maharashtra’s Jalna district. In this blog, we explain how soil, water and cropping patterns here are interconnected. https://welllabs.org/drought-water-monitoring-evaluation-jaltara-maharashtra/ (22 March 2024)
URBAN LAKES, WETLANDS
Mumbai Greens allege violation of clearance conditions by JNPA Vanashakti alleges that while constructing a container terminal, JNPA has violated two key conditions set by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).“As per condition six, all reclamation must be done using marine dredged material,” said Stalin D, director of Vanashakti. “But what we’ve found out and is clearly visible is that what’s being used in the intertidal areas within the port area is murum soil, excavated from quarries and mountains in Raigad.”
-This harm to intertidal mudflats, which are CRZ 1, and fishing grounds, leads to the violation of another condition, which states that no mangroves, fishing grounds, or ecologically sensitive areas will be destroyed. “With the reckless reclamation being done, the thousands of flamingoes and waterfowl that frequent the area will disappear. There are also no boundaries demarcated for the reclamation, so the fishermen are also at a loss to the contours of their fishing areas,” added Stalin. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/mumbai-news/environmental-activists-allege-violation-of-clearance-conditions-by-jnpa-101710702510649.html (18 March 2024)
Renewed mangroves destruction At Ulwe The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has asked its Maharashtra unit (MPCB) to act against the complaint it (CPCB) has received regarding rampant mangroves destruction and dumping on wetlands and CRZ 1 area allegedly on the behest of the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) at the area opposite Sector 2, Ulwe.The MPCB has been called upon to address the concerning complaint, implicating the CIDCO in the activity. https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/navi-mumbai-renewed-mangroves-destruction-at-ulwe-cpcb-calls-for-action (20 March 2024)
Time we realised importance of mangroves -Mumbai-based environmentalists have exposed alleged illegal dumping activities taking place close to a mangrove patch in Ulwe, near Navi Mumbai.
In a video posted on social media, a dumper can be seen disposing of mud on an open plot close to mangroves. https://www.mid-day.com/news/opinion/article/its-high-time-we-realised-the-importance-of-mangroves-23340995 (22 March 2024)
Nainital Rats posing risk of potential wall cave-in of Naini Lake The Irrigation Department, responsible for the upkeep of the area, conducted an investigation revealing that the deterioration of the walls bordering the Naini Lake is partly attributable to rats. These rats have created burrows within the walls and surrounding areas, leading to both structural weakening and land subsidence. The presence of rats poses a significant challenge for the department in addressing issues effectively. https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/Mar/18/alarm-over-rats-posing-risk-of-potential-wall-cave-in-along-shores-of-naini-lake (17 March 2024)
URBAN WATER
Bengaluru What has caused the water crisis “South India has a very different kind of aquifer system. It is very rocky. The aquifers don’t hold a lot of water. They empty out quickly, and they also get recharged pretty quickly. What this means is that groundwater resources are not able to sustain for very long in the event of a prolonged dry spell. This is very different from the aquifers in north India, which have a much better capacity to hold water. This is why Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, which got even less rainfall last year than Karnataka, have not seen similar water scarcity,” Prof VImal Mishra of IIT Gandhinagar, the Vikram Sarabhai Chair professor at IIT Gandhinagar, said. “Aquifers in north India, once full, can hold enough water to sustain the demand for a couple of years,” he said. [Not entirely accurate analysis. If Bellandur and Varthur lakes were not empty for last four years, GW situation may have been different. Same if RWH were done and lakes were preserved, treated water was reused and more groundwater recharge efforts were made. https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/what-caused-the-water-crisis-in-bengaluru-9223131/ (20 March 2024)
Experts against use of treated water to fill lakes Experts, including Prof T V Ramchandran of IISc and Shubha Ramchandran of Biome Trust have cautioned against indiscriminately using secondly treated water from STPs to fill up lakes in Bangalore as 18 of the 34 STPs of Bangalore do not comply with the new NGT treated sewage standards and only provide secondary treated water. BWSSB has been thinking of using secondary treated water to fill up Bangalore lakes. But Prof Ramchandran pointed out that such action has led to contamination of groundwater in Kolar and Chikballapur districts. Bangalore sewage also contains heavy metals from industrial effluents that cannot be removed during secondary treatment and since the main use of groundwater in Bangalore is for drinking water/ domestic use. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/experts-against-use-of-treated-water-to-fill-lakes-2945746 (21 March 2024)
Bengaluru can rework its water plan The road ahead asks Bengaluru, after factoring in water from the Cauvery, to respect its unique hydrology and water network, implement rainwater harvesting, use treated wastewater to revive lakes, ensure recharging of groundwater and replenishing of wells, and enlist the skills of traditional well diggers like Mannu Vaddars. Else, water will remain a pipe dream. (S Vishwanath) https://questionofcities.org/how-bengaluru-once-the-land-of-a-thousand-lakes-can-rework-its-water-plan/ (22 March 2024)
Key challenges in water management Various factors have contributed to this crisis in the city. The Urban Water Balance Report for Bengaluru, released by WELL Labs, a city-based research organisation, highlights some of these concerns. Key aspects include reliance on over-exploited groundwater, limited access to BWSSB pipelines, neglected lake maintenance, and underutilisation of water treatment facilities. https://www.indiaspend.com/earthcheckindia/bengalurus-water-crisis-key-challenges-in-water-management-900523 (20 March 2024)
Only 1 out of every 5 homes harvests rainwater With only about 2 lakh of the 10.8 lakh homes in Bengaluru having installed rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems, Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) believes the water situation wouldn’t have been as dismal as it is now if everyone had opted for RWH. On its part, BWSSB has imposed penalties totalling nearly Rs 2 crore on 40,000 households for not installing RWH systems, hoping that might push people into embracing the sustainable solution. Suresh B, engineer-in-chief of BWSSB, said that since Dec 2011, RWH has been mandatory for houses built on plots larger than 60x40ft. In 2020, it was also made mandatory for houses on plots measuring 30x40ft, with penalties for violations. For domestic connections, BWSSB imposes a 50% penalty on water consumption bill for the first three months and 100% thereafter. For commercial connections, it is 100% for three months and 200% afterwards. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/bengaluru-rainwater-harvesting-only-1-in-5-homes-embrace-sustainable-solution/articleshow/108598844.cms (19 March 2024)
Lakes cannot be taken for granted The Mahadevapura area in east Bengaluru, which is currently dealing with the water crisis, was also severely hit by the floods back in 2022, with incessant waterlogging across the streets and even in posh residential communities. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bengaluru-news/world-water-day-why-bengalurus-lakes-cannot-be-taken-for-granted-anymore-101711091618689.html (22 March 2024)
According to Dr T V Ramchandran of IISc, Bangalore needs about 18 TMC of water annually and over 70% (about 15 TMC) of it can be satisfied by proper Rain Water Harvesting. Treated sewage can also be a big part of solution. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/rainwater-harvesting-can-meet-over-70-of-bengaluru-s-water-needs-2950193 (24 March 2024)
Runoff from streets, roads, parks and other open spaces remain uncaptured in Bangalore. Dr Sudha Ramchandran of BIOME Env solutions suggests that this can be a big part of solution for Bangalore. Some such initiatives have been successfully functioning in Cubban Park, Rainbow Drive Locality, Haralur Road, BTM and Koramangala 3rd Block. A document shared by BIOME Environmental Solutions claims that even if only 25% of the runoff from public parks could be captured, it can provide the city with more than 450,000 million litres annually. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/experts-suggest-measures-to-tap-into-water-from-streets-open-spaces-2950207 (24 March 2024)
Many residential societies in Bengaluru are now on the lookout for innovative ways to conserve water amid the ongoing crisis. The focus is mainly on the reuse of discharged wastewater from RO filter systems and STP. One of the methods which has proven effective for these societies is using the wastewater discharged from RO water filters in a centralised manner to reap greater benefits. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/apartments-adopt-unique-methods-of-water-conservation/article67964988.ece (23 March 2024)
WELL Labs has partnered with the Swiss Federal Aquatic Institute of Science & Technology to research decentralised wastewater treatment and reuse and enable their adoption in Bengaluru. https://welllabs.org/bengaluru-water-systems-cost-effective/ (22 Dec. 2023)
BWSSB mandates tap aerators for bulk consumers The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) on Tuesday (March 19) made aerators compulsory in taps used by bulk users by the end of the month. An aerator is a device that is fixed to tap openings and is used in regulating the flow of water from it. V Ram Prasath Manohar, the chairman of the BWSSB, said commercial establishments, apartments, restaurants, luxury hotels, industries, and other public areas will compulsorily have to install aerators in their taps. Aerators can save 60-85% water. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bengaluru-news/bengaluru-water-management-body-mandates-tap-aerators-for-bulk-consumers-installation-drive-to-begin-march-21-101710926923579.html (20 March 2024)
BWSSB may soon recommend to the state govt changes in building byelaws to ensure that individual water meters are compulsory for all houses in newly constructed apartment complexes. This can help save upto 30% water consumed. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/new-apartments-may-need-to-get-their-own-water-meters-soon-2950203 (24 March 2024)
BWSSB mandates installation of aerators in taps BWSSB mandates aerator installations for apartments, commercial establishments, industries, luxury hotels, restaurants and public places by March 31, citing potential water savings of 60-85%. https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/technology/bengaluru-water-board-mandates-installation-of-aerators-in-taps-12489651.html (19 March 2024)
BWSSB seeks CSR funds to implement RWH BWSSB is now looking at CSR fund option to implement RWH systems on large scale at public places, ensuring prevention of sewage into lakes and such other initiatives. Four years ago too it tried, but did not go far. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/cash-strapped-bwssb-seeks-csr-funds-to-implement-rwh-in-public-spaces-2943954 (20 March 2024)
‘Decision to release Cauvery water to TN a ‘blunder’’ Former government secretary, Captain Raja Rao, attributes the problem to various factors: the recent poor monsoon, ongoing Cauvery water releases mandated by central authorities, and a lack of proactive measures by the state government. “CWMA and CWRC have made a greatest blunder in asking Karnataka government to release water every month even during summer. Advocates representing Karnataka have miserably failed before CWMA in bringing home the actual provisions made in CWDT in safeguarding our requirement of water,” said Raja Rao. He also highlighted that the state government should have sought relief from the Supreme Court regarding water releases to Tamil Nadu.
-Regarding potential solutions, Rao proposes utilising water from the “dead storage” level of reservoirs as a last resort. Dead storage refers to water below the level that can be released through outlet pipes. Another suggestion involves digging borewells near reservoirs to tap potential groundwater sources. However, this water would require testing and approval from the Pollution Control Board before distribution. https://www.news18.com/india/bengaluru-water-crisis-noted-water-expert-calls-cwmas-decision-to-release-cauvery-water-to-tn-a-blunder-8819963.html (19 March 2024)
The BWSSB workers on Saturday (March 23) night and Monday (March 25) morning removed hyacinth plants which were blocking the water flow partially in channels. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/bwssb-removes-hyacinth-blocking-cauvery-water-channel/article67987020.ece (24 March 2024)
Mangaluru Rationing of water likely to begin from April The water level in Thumbay dam presently, which is the lifeline of water supply to the city, stands at six meters. The water inflow into the dam has completely stopped. If there is rainfall during summer the present stock will not be enough to cater to the city’s needs for two months of April and May and rationing seems inevitable. The daily requirement of water for Mangaluru is 150 MLD. Though 165 MLD is pumped from Thumbay dam, the remaining 15 MLD gets wasted in transit due to illegal tapping of pipeline and leakages. According to MCC officials, the water woes of the city will be completely resolved if the Jalasiri project is implemented completely. https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1175911 (15 March 2024)
Hyderabad Record spike in water tanker demand With water tables in most parts of Hi-Tec Hyderabad dropping below the two to three metre-mark, pockets in the area are witnessing the highest tanker demand this summer season. According to Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWS&SB) records, places like Gachibowli, Madhapur, Manikonda, Kokapet and Hi-Tec City have flooded its metro customer care (MCC) lines seeking tankers. The daily count: anywhere between 2,500 and 3,000 per day.
Other areas seeing a similar trend: Banjara Hills, parts of Jubilee Hills, S R Nagar, Ameerpet, Khairatabad, Kukatpally and its surrounding areas, Patancheru, Ramachandrapuram, Quthbullapur, Uppal and L B Nagar. Places like Asifnagar, Mehdipatnam, Moghalpura, Bahdurpura, and Charminar in the Old City too have been calling for tankers, said officials. Till March mid-week, the water board had received 69,146 bookings – 60% of this from hi-tech Hyderabad. Residents agree to the increased use of tankers. Water board officials fear that the situation will get worse over the next few weeks with groundwater levels dropping rapidly. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/summer-yet-to-peak-but-record-spike-in-water-tanker-demand/articleshow/108757263.cms (25 March 2024)
A meeting, titled ‘Groundwater Recharge and Management in Urban Areas’ and organised by the Groundwater department on the occasion of World Water Day on Friday (March 22), underscored the need for proactive measures for groundwater management in urban areas to address the water crisis during the summer seasons. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/meet-in-hyderabad-advocates-need-for-proactive-steps-for-groundwater-management/article67980655.ece (22 March 2024)
Indore Ban on borings till June end With invoking provisions contained in the MP Drinking Water Preservation Act, 1986 and Amendment Act 2002, collector Asheesh Singh has declared the entire urban and rural areas of Indore district as water stressed areas. Keeping in view the continuous depletion of ground water in the district, a ban under Section 6(1) of the Act has been imposed on mining of non-government and private tube wells in the entire district from March 18 to June30. https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/indore-declared-water-stressed-dist-ban-on-mining-of-borings-till-june-end (18 March 2024)
WATER POLLUTION
Report Center tells NGT not to bring slaughterhouses under EIA -Animal rights activist Gauri Maulekhi approached the NGT last year raising concerns regarding over consumption of water at slaughterhouses, contamination of water bodies due to improper solid waste disposal and the risk of zoonotic diseases due to exposure to unhealthy carcasses among others.
-The affidavit based on a report by an 8-member working group set up by the ministry in August last year said that there will be no significant value addition by bringing such units under the ambit of EIA, 2006 as only the issue is the implementation of the regulations already in place. The ministry’s working group report said illegal slaughterhouses with a capacity of up to nine animals are causing “significant damage to the environment” and need to be regulated and monitored in a more efficient manner. https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/no-need-to-bring-slaughterhouses-meat-processing-units-under-eia-centre/cid/2007705 (18 March 2024)
Mumbai 2 die in Malad septic tank On Thursday (March 21) evening, three persons — Suraj Kevat (18), Bikas Kevat (20) and Ramlagan Kevat (45) — had entered the septic tank attached with the tank. All three of them were sanitation workers appointed by the private agency that was responsible for maintaining the toilet. Out of the three who fell into the tank, Suraj and Bikas died. Civic officials said the toilet was constructed in 2018 and was handed over to a local agency for maintainence. A day after incident in Malad West’s Malwani area, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) preliminary investigation report stated that the victims had entered the tank to clean it manually. The BMC has also sent a show cause notice to the private agencies involved in the upkeep and maintenance of the community toilet attached with the tank. sewer in which the victims fell was 15-feet deep and the victims were pulled out by local residents and members of the fire brigade. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/two-die-in-malad-septic-tank-victims-sanitation-workers-entered-tank-to-clean-it-bmc-report-9229410/ (23 March 2024)
WATER
Report Silent crisis of mountain springs & its implications -The drying up of local water sources are described as a slow-onset disaster. These may be less dramatic than the instances of too much water that struck communities across the valleys of the Hindu Kush Himalaya with such ferocity last monsoon, perhaps most notably in Sikkim, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, but they are no less devastating. https://india.mongabay.com/2024/03/troubled-waters/ (22 March 2024)
DTE Wars over water -Asia and Africa are the two main global hotspots of water-related conflicts, according to the Pacific Institute data. Almost 80 per cent of all conflicts worldwide are concentrated in these two regions. Of the 228 cases recorded worldwide in 2022, a total of 109 were in Asia, spread across 17 countries. This is the largest number of cases documented in the region since 1990. There have been reports of 56 conflicts in 14 different Asian nations in 2023.
-India accounted for 43 per cent of reported water conflicts in Asia in 2019—a year when more than 40 per cent of the country faced drought and about 17 per cent was under severe drought, according to the Water and Climate Laboratory, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Gandhinagar. Close to 500 million people were severely affected during summer in country in 2019. In 2023, the country recorded six cases, which was the second-highest number in Asia for the year. Thus, India was responsible for almost 11 per cent of water-related hostilities in Asia in 2023. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/water/wars-over-water-95195 (22 March 2024)
MONSOON 2024
Study Extreme rainfalls quadrupled in Meghalaya due to climate change -The researchers were able to establish that the northeast Bangladesh and India region (NEBI), southeast Bangladesh (SEB) and northwest Bangladesh (NWB) have historically experienced the most extreme one-day events, with most occurring between the monsoon months of May and October.
-The researchers used gridded meteorological data sets from the meteorological departments of both India and Bangladesh to observe trends in extreme rainfall over a 72-year period. They found that compared to the baseline period (1950-1979), the frequency of summer monsoon extreme events between 1979 and 2021 and has quadrupled over Meghalaya during the May to October months, driven by variabilities in the low level jet and warmer sea surface temperatures. https://india.mongabay.com/2024/03/extreme-rainfall-events-quadrupled-in-meghalaya-due-to-climate-change-says-study/ (20 March 2024)
Forecasts of fog improve when models include irrigation effects Increased use of irrigation over northern India in winter provides a plausible explanation for the observed upward trend in fog events, highlighting the critical need for optimisation of irrigation practices. This paper shows fog event simulations over northern India with and without irrigation, revealing that irrigation counteracts a common model dry bias, dramatically improving the simulation of fog. https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01314-w (19 March 2024)
Evidence of ‘missing’ spring -Indian States have been gradually registering a withdrawal of spring — a period of relatively benign weather between the winter of January and the scorching summers of April, a 50-year analysis of meteorological records suggests.
-Researchers from the agency Climate Trends calculated the monthly average temperature for 33 States and Union Territories from 1970-present. This was the period during which the impact of global warming has been empirically observed and for which consistent data exists. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/study-reports-evidence-of-missing-spring-in-india/article67965479.ece (18 March 2024)
ENVIRONMENT GOVERNANCE
Supreme Court No green nod exemption for linear infra projects -The Supreme Court has struck down a March 2020 notification of the MoEF that exempted green clearance for extraction of ordinary earth for linear projects such as laying of roads and pipelines. Terming the notification “unguided and arbitrary”, a bench of justices AS Oka and Sanjay Karol on Thursday (March 21) also questioned the “undue haste” that was shown by the Centre to issue the notification in “public interest”, as a nationwide lockdown was imposed days later in view of the Covid-19 pandemic and all linear projects had come to a halt. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/sc-scraps-govt-notification-exempting-green-nod-for-extraction-of-ordinary-earth-in-linear-projects-101711136342120.html (23 March 2024). The notification — which provided environmental clearance exemption for carrying out “extraction or sourcing or borrowing of ordinary earth for linear projects such as roads, pipelines etc” — was issued without inviting objections or opinions to it through the publication of prior notice, the court noted. According to the government, this requirement was dispensed with because the notification listing out the exemption was issued in public interest. https://theprint.in/judiciary/unconstitutional-sc-junks-centres-environmental-clearance-exemption-to-soil-extraction-for-infra/2012592/ (23 March 2024) -“There is no specification of the area which can be used to extract ordinary earth. It is also not provided what quantity of ordinary earth, which is required to implement the linear projects, is exempted. Importantly, ‘linear projects’ have not been defined. Without the definition, it is difficult to imagine which projects will be termed linear projects. The term is very vague. The process to be adopted for excavation has not been set out. Thus, the exemption is completely unguided and blanket, which is, per se, arbitrary and violative of Article 14 of the Constitution,” it said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/supreme-court-no-green-nod-exemption-for-infrastructure-projects-digging/articleshow/108717857.cms (23 March 2024); https://www.livelaw.in/top-stories/exempting-earth-extraction-for-linear-projects-from-environmental-clearance-arbitrary-supreme-court-quashes-centres-notification-253089 (22 March 2024)
MoEF Star-rating for SEIAAs not operational yet -Through affidavit the MoEF has told the NGT’s Chennai bench, where the proposal has been challenged, that it is still in the process of upgrading and operationalising the website that would facilitate this ranking of the State Environment Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAAs), a source told The Indian Express. The Ministry had introduced the star-rating system in January 2022 but it was challenged in the NGT by Meenava Thanthai K R Selvaraj Kumar Meenavar Nala Sangam, a Tamil Nadu-based organisation working for the rights of fishermen.
-The petitioners argued that it was arbitrary and would result in a dilution of scrutiny during the environmental impact assessment process. The petitioners also argued that the Ministry’s order was contrary to the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) notification of 2006 which mandates detailed scrutiny of all the impact of all projects. The plea has now been listed for final hearing on May 13. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/star-rating-for-state-environment-bodies-not-operational-yet-ministry-tells-ngt-9221587/ (19 March 2024)
Jammu & Kashmir UP firm gave 10cr to BJP after bagging contract for tunnel On Dec. 19, 2019, Apco Infratech was issued a “letter of award” by the Union territory administration to execute the construction of the 6.4 km-long Z-Morh tunnel in Ganderbal district. Less than four weeks after receiving the go-ahead for the project, the firm on 15 January, 2020, purchased 10 electoral bonds worth Rs 1 crore each. The BJP encashed the bonds six days later.
-Apco Infratech did not purchase bonds only in 2020. It also bought Rs 10 crore worth of bonds in 2022, followed by the same amount in 2023 – a total of Rs 30 crore. All of these bonds have gone into the kitty of BJP, the data revealed by the ECI on Thursday (March 21) shows. The construction firm is engaged in a number of infrastructure projects across Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and North India and even in neighbouring Nepal. https://scroll.in/article/1065611/up-firm-gave-rs-10-crore-to-bjp-less-than-a-month-after-bagging-contract-for-kashmir-tunnel (22 March 2024)
Goa Beaches will be completely destroyed if illegalities not checked: HC The high court has said that beaches, which are Goa’s “pride and heritage”, will be “completely destroyed” if the “large-scale mushrooming of wholly unauthorised constructions” continues unchecked. Expressing “anguish” over the proliferation of such structures on beaches which are public property, the court came down heavily on the director of tourism for turning a blind eye to them. The court called for strict action to remove such structures and to recover costs for environmental damage.
It ordered the director of tourism to consider launching criminal prosecution against encroachers and ensure that they are not granted electricity and water connections or issued any permissions to use their illegal structures for commercial purposes. “Even after the court orders, unfortunately, we get the impression that the entire focus is on avoiding implementation,” the court said. Beaches run the risk of being completely destroyed just as the sand dunes nearly are, the HC said, adding that the director of tourism cannot remain a “silent spectator”. “Ultimately, the director must remember that this is not his or govt’s property,” said the division bench comprising justices Mahesh Sonak and Valmiki S A Menezes. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/beaches-will-be-completely-destroyed-if-illegalities-not-checked-hc/articleshow/108694581.cms (22 March 2024)
Report Green credit scheme’s ‘methodology’ doesn’t inspire confidence India’s environment ministry released the methodology for generating green credits from tree planting. Experts raised concerns about the environmental soundness of the scheme, as well as possible regulatory gaps that the methodology doesn’t address. The tree planting methodology includes fewer details compared to its draft version and leaves out important information about plant survival and tenure of project. https://india.mongabay.com/2024/03/green-credit-schemes-methodology-doesnt-inspire-confidence-among-experts/ (19 March 2024)
Interview Cartoonist for conservation Rohan Chakravarty, cartoonist, illustrator, author and the creator of the Green Humour series, on his journey to becoming an advocate for wildlife conservation. https://www.thehindu.com/education/cartoonist-for-conservation/article67975172.ece (23 March 2024)
Book Learn about India’s lesser-known green heroes in this new book for children and adults. https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai-guide/things-to-do/article/indias-real-eco-warriors-23341140 (23 March 2024)
CLIMATE CHANGE
Report As per this report (March 19 2024), the average winter temperature in Himalayas has gone up by over 1 degree, the permanent snow line has receded by 100 m, glaciers have receded by about 3 km and winter snow fall period has been delayed by 1.5 months. Based on a recently published study by Wadio Institute of Himalayan Geology for the period since 1901, it reports that the snow fall that happens now in Feb-March is wet snow, melts faster, so Himalayan snow area will continue to recede.
The worst effect is in NE Himalayas, where glaciers in Arunachal has receded by about 9 m per year, the rate is 4 m per year in Ladakh and Kashmir. Gangotri glacier has receded by 18 km in last 200 years. https://www.bhaskar.com/national/news/glaciers-melted-fastest-in-north-eastern-himalayas-132743708.html (19 March 2024)
Study Analysis of glacier recession (2000–2020) in the Nun-Kun Group of Glaciers Abstract: – The study revealed that the Nun-Kun Group of Glaciers (NKGG) glaciers have experienced a recession of 4.5%±3.4% and their snouts have retreated at the rate of 6.4±1.6 m·a−1. Additionally, there was a 41% increase observed in the debris cover area during the observation period. Using the geodetic approach, an average glacier elevation change of −1.4±0.4 m·a−1 was observed between 2000 and 2012. The observed mass loss of the NKGG has resulted in the deceleration of glacier velocity from 27.0±3.7 m·a−1 in 2000 to 21.2±2.2 m·a−1 in 2020. The ELA has shifted upwards by 83.0±22 m during the period. Glacier morphological and topographic factors showed a strong influence on glacier recession. Furthermore, a higher recession of 12.9%±3.2% was observed in small glaciers, compared to 2.7%±3.1% in larger glaciers. The debris-covered glaciers showed lower shrinkage (2.8%±1.1%) compared to the clean glaciers (9.3%±5%). The glacier depletion recorded in the NKGG during the last two decades, if continued, would severely diminish glacial volume and capacity to store water, thus jeopardizing the sustainability of water resources in the basin. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11629-023-8266-4 (23 March 2024)
Ladakh BRO has reopened Zoji La (pass), the main obstacle in Ladakh’s lifeline via Srinagar, for vehicular traffic after 35 days of being under snow against 68 days last year – a record. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/in-a-record-zoji-la-reopens-after-35-days-against-68-in-2023/articleshow/108755829.cms (25 March 2024)
SOUTH ASIA
Report Multilateral treaties required for Indus, Ganga, Brahmaputra management -People in India, China, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal and Bhutan depend on these three rivers for their food and water security, the ICIMOD study highlighted. Even as there are bilateral treaties such as the Indus Water Treaty between India and Pakistan or agreements on water data sharing, such as the one on Brahmaputra between India and China, no multilateral agreements or treaties exist on this issue.
-The report said 600 million Indians, 29 million from Nepal and millions in Bangladesh live in the Ganga river basin area. However, there is no agreement involving Nepal, India and Bangladesh. The Indus is a lifeline for 268 million people who live in its river basin whereas approximately 114 million people depend on the Brahmaputra for water, electricity, food, agriculture and fishing.
-Russell Rollason from eWater — an Australian government-backed organisation— lead author on the Indus river basin report, said the report emphasises the importance of harnessing indigenous and local knowledge systems. “These hold so many insights into how local communities can act to resolve problems quickly and effectively during a crisis. Governments need to empower local communities with knowledge and technology to nurture their resilience,” said Rollason.
-The reports recommended that data gaps on river basins need to be plugged for better water management, early warning and to facilitate disaster management. There were substantial data and knowledge gaps across the Ganga river basin regarding social, economic and environmental realities and even on water usage.
-Developing this data using a ‘whole basin’ research approach would yield additional benefits: data-sharing would inform more reliable water accounting, underpin strategic basin planning, increase transboundary understanding of the long-term impacts of climate change, secure more reliable water supply to all users even under uncertain conditions. The reports also called for greater ‘hydro-solidarity’ and climate diplomacy among researchers to build trust between countries and move towards greater dialogue. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/multilateral-treaties-required-for-indus-ganga-brahmaputra-management-says-report-9225628/ (21 March 2024)
Bhutan Bangladesh India cooperation: Bangladesh is set to invest $1 billion in the Bhutans 1,125 megawatt Dorjilung Hydropower Project, through trilateral cooperation with India. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has made the proposal once again for discussion during the upcoming bi-lateral meeting between the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, scheduled for March 25. Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is set to arrive in Dhaka on Monday to join the Independence Day celebrations on March 26. https://www.observerbd.com/news.php?id=465673 PM Modi and Bhutan’s Tobgay collaborate on new energy projects, including the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project. They seek Indian entity partnerships for revenue generation, financing, and power sales facilitation in Bhutan. (23 March 2024) https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/energy/power/india-bhutan-explore-setting-up-of-new-hydropower-projects/articleshow/108737630.cms (23 March 2024)
THE REST OF THE WORLD
America Court recognizes rights of Marañón river & Indigenous communities as its guardians -In a landmark decision in favor of rivers in Peru, the Mixed Court in the City of Nauta ruled that the Marañón River, one of the country’s most significant rivers and water sources and the first source of the Amazon, has an intrinsic value and it is recognized as a Subject of Rights codifying a series of inherent rights.
The triumph marks the culmination of efforts led by the Huaynakana Kamatahuara Kana Federation, an Indigenous Kukama women’s group rooted in the Parinari district of the Loreto province and region. Since 2021, they have spearheaded a legal battle against the State and Peruvian authorities, demanding protection for the Marañón River from the constant oil spills from the Norperuvian oil pipeline operated by Petroperu. The communities that make up this federation are still dealing with the aftermath of the Saramuro oil spill in 2010. https://www.internationalrivers.org/news/landmark-ruling-the-peruvian-court-of-nauta-recognizes-the-rights-of-the-maranon-river-and-the-indigenous-communities-as-its-guardians/ (19 March 2024)
American Rivers Momentum growing for restoring freshwater ecosystesm -As the impacts from climate change march forward, our freshwater ecosystems will only increase in importance and value. It’s essential we use every tool in the toolbox, including nature-based solutions, to protect and restore our rivers, watersheds, and the benefits they provide. https://www.americanrivers.org/2023/12/momentum-is-growing-for-restoring-freshwater-ecosystems/ (21 Dec. 2023)
Report How ‘Dune’ became beacon for environmental movement As Ternyik explains in a handbook he wrote for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, his work in Oregon was part of an effort to heal landscapes scarred by European colonization, especially the large river jetties built by early settlers. These structures disturbed coastal currents and created vast expanses of sand, turning stretches of the lush Pacific Northwest landscape into desert. This scenario is echoed in “Dune,” where the novel’s setting, the planet Arrakis, was similarly laid to waste by its first colonizers. https://theconversation.com/how-dune-became-a-beacon-for-the-fledgling-environmental-movement-and-a-rallying-cry-for-the-new-science-of-ecology-225156 (15 March 2024)
Compiled by SANDRP (ht.sandrp@gmail.com)
Also see: DRP News Bulletin 18 March 2024 & DRP News Bulletin 11 March 2024
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