(Feature Image: Ganga river at Garhmukteshwar in March 2024. Bhim Singh Rawat/SANDRP)

The demand of NAPM to political parties going to the National elections in next couple of months to include protection of rivers and communities dependent on rivers in their manifestoes is most appropriate and urgently required.

Some key components of the demand include strengthening of decentralized river governance, role in decision making related to rivers for the fisherfolks, boats people and other river dependent communities. A draft of the People’s River Protection Bill has also been sent to the political parties. The NAPM also opposed indiscriminate construction of dams, hydro projects, embankments, barrages, river front developments, illegal sand mining, dumping of solid and liquid waste in the rivers and also interlinking of projects, all being done in the name of development, with least concern for the rivers. The draft bill also demands removal of unjust encroachments into riverbeds and floodplains. NAPM also demands continued flow in the perennial rivers by way of adequate environment flows throughout the length of the rivers from origin to its confluence with other rivers or sea.

Will the political parties listen and respond positively? That will depend on how much the local communities all over the country make this demand to the candidates and political parties that approach them for votes. 

Demand to include river protection in poll manifesto National Alliance of People’s Movements (NAPM) has demanded that political parties should set aside populist policies and give priority to interconnected ‘Jal Jangal Jameen’ (water, forest, land) for balancing the ecosystem. Stating that from the glacial rivers of the Himalayas to Periyar in Kerala, we are campaigning for rivers to be recognized as living entities, and demanding strengthening and decentralization of river governance to protect rivers as well as small stakeholders like fisherfolk and marginalized communities.

They said that a draft of People’s River Protection Bill is being sent to all political parties and their MPs, to be included in their manifestos, and to take cognizance of the serious issues being faced by our rivers and riverine communities. “We oppose relentless constructions of dams, barrages, embankments, hydroelectric projects, widespread commercial and illegal sand mining, sewage and effluent dumping, interlinking and riverfront projects,” said social activist and founder of NAPM Medha Patkar at a recent online press conference organized with representatives from all states.

The proposed River Protection Bill called for an urgent need to address unjust encroachments (especially dams & embankments) and impact on rivers, emphasizing the importance of aligning with existing laws and constitutional values. It stresses on defining rivers by their water flow to protect riverine ecosystems and ensure distributive justice in resource allocation/ sharing. The draft bill emphasizes continuous and unpolluted flow of rivers as a priority, with measures to prevent drying even in non-monsoon months. It calls for afforestation and protection of forest cover in river catchments, by stopping illegal sand mining, and strict control of pollution from urban, industrial, and agricultural sources. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/demand-to-include-river-protection-in-poll-manifesto/articleshow/109098380.cms  (07 April 2024)

देशभर के नदी आश्रित समाज के लिए संगठनों ने नदियों और नदी घाटी समाज के अधिकारों की सुरक्षा को 2024 लोकसभा चुनाव के दौरान चुनावी एजेंडे में शामिल करने की मांग उठाई. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/hindistory/river/dam/demand-to-recognize-rivers-as-living-entities-across-the-country-draft-sent-to-all-political-parties-95426  (06 April 2024)

HYDRO POWER PROJECTS

Report India hydropower output records steepest fall in nearly 4 decades India’s hydroelectricity output fell at the steepest pace in at least 38 years during the year ended March 31, analysis of government data showed. There was 16.3% drop in generation in hydropower. Renewables accounted for 11.7% of India’s power output in the year that ended in March, down from 11.8% a year earlier. A five-year low in reservoir levels means hydro output will likely remain low during the hottest months of April-June. K. J. Ramesh, former chief of the Indian Meteorological Department, said that erratic rainfall means India should not count on hydro as a reliable power source in the future. Hydro’s share in India’s total power output fell to a record low of 8.3% during the fiscal year ended March 31.

– Globally, hydropower output fell for only the fourth time since 2000 due to lower rainfall and warmer temperature brought about by the El Nino weather pattern, according to energy think tank Ember. Hydro output in India, the sixth-biggest hydropower producer, fell nearly seven times faster than the global average, Ember data showed. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/india-hydropower-output-records-steepest-fall-nearly-four-decades-2024-04-01/  (02 April 2024)

Govt unconvincing optimism on hydro power generation “Hydroelectric power projects with aggregate capacity of 15 GW are under construction in the country. The hydro capacity is likely to increase from 42 GW to 67 GW by 2031-32, marking an increase of more than half of present capacity.” There are several inaccuracies here. Firstly existing hydro capacity is supposed to be 47000 MW from large hydro alone. Why is the govt showing lower capacity at 42 GW? Secondly, even if all the current under construction capacity of 15 MW to be commissioned by 2031-32 (not likely considering the past track record), where will the additional 10 GW come from?

– “Further, hydropower projects located in the Himalayan region get base flow from contribution of snowmelt, i.e., from surface runoff produced by melting snow; so, any rise in temperature will increase snowmelt contribution.” This statement is based on conjectures, not showing if any study has quantified the additional contribution from snowmelt MINUS lower snowfall and already melted glaciers is actually and if that quantity is positive or negative.

– “Currently, PSPs with aggregate capacity of 2.7 GW are under construction in the county and another 50 GW is under various stages of development. It is projected that PSP capacity shall increase from 4.7 GW to around 55 GW by 2031-32.” Actually the National Electricity Plan says the viable PSP capacity by 2032 is around 18 GW. So what is the viability of this 55 GW that is being pushed to be ready by 2032? It may be added here that PSP capacity will be net consumer of power.

– EXPLANATION FOR LOWER GENERATION IN 2023-34: “The fall in hydro power generation in 2023-24 as compared to 2022-23 cannot be attributed solely to less rainfall. In the southern region, which contributes approximately 22% of the total hydro energy generated, low rainfall has indeed played a role. However, the hydroelectric power projects in Northern and Eastern regions, comprising over 60% of total hydro energy generation, have been severely impacted by natural disasters in 2023-24. In July 2023, Himachal Pradesh experienced flash floods, disrupting the operation of many power stations in the area. Besides, flash floods in the Eastern region in October 2023 have further hindered the operation of several hydro power stations, thus affecting the generation severely.” This clearly does not go into quantification of various factors. More importantly, some of the disasters described here are man made and why no effort is being made to fix accountability?

– CATCHING AT STRAWS? “The prediction by the IMD of good monsoon in FY 2024-25 suggests a potential reversal of the trend. This anticipated increase in rainfall could contribute to replenishment of reservoir capacities which were lost during the scarce rainfall in the previous year.” Interesting to see that Govt is banking on higher rainfall in 2024-25, but if it will get converted into additional storage and additionalhydropower generation will depend on the pattern of rainfall, which has gone hugely skewed. Not acknowledging that reality does not help convince anyone about govt’s optimism. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2017271  (05 April 2024)

-An opinion piece, ‘Dam(n) it, what’s wrong with India’s hydropower push?’, has raised a number of very serious concerns to our people from the large number of hydel power projects being planned and built in the country. Whereas, the issues have been raised many times in the recent past, civil society has not been able to persuade the concerned authorities, especially the Ministry of Power, Ministry of Environment, NITI Aayog, and PMO, to provide satisfactory clarification to any of these concerns (Shankar Sharma). https://www.counterview.net/2024/04/why-its-time-to-question-very-need-for.html  (March 2024)

Why financing environmentally damaging HEPs? Early in February, hundreds of residents of Himachal’s Kullu district blocked highways to protest against the Luhri Hydro Electric project run by the public sector Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited. They wanted to draw attention to the unsettling cracks snaking through their homes, the dust pollution that is devastating their crops and inadequate compensation they have been given for their loss of land and crops. The State Bank of India is the lead financier for stage one of the 210-megawatt project. The fact that the bank has not been visible in the discussions about the effects of the project highlights the unwillingness of Indian financial institutions to take responsibility for the human and ecological consequences of their investments.

– One of the main anxieties related to a planned 38-km-long tunnel. Tunnelling in the mountains had previously resulted in soil on the slopes loosening, houses developing damage and natural springs going dry. In 2014, the World Bank dropped its plan to extend a $650 million loan to the project. It made this decision after a visit to the site by a team of the United States Agency for International Development, which acknowledged the concerns of residents. USAID had been commissioned by the World Bank to conduct an appraisal of the project’s potential impacts. After this, the Himachal Pradesh government reconceptualised the plan, seeking to minimise the impact by reducing the scale of construction. Instead of the original proposal of a single dam with a capacity of 755 MW, the new plan involved building three hydroelectric dams on the same section of the Satlej river. https://scroll.in/article/1065582/by-financing-environmentally-damaging-projects-can-indian-funders-be-held-liable  (04 April 2024)

-As the elections loom large, the Demand Charter stands as a litmus test for political commitment to environmental stewardship. Failure to heed this clarion call risks relegating the Himalayas to mere collateral damage in the pursuit of progress. https://countercurrents.org/2024/04/demand-charter-for-himalayan-states-elevating-the-urgency-of-environmental-preservation-in-election-discourse/  (01 April 2024)

Sikkim Visions of hell Impact of the Oct 2023 Teesta Valley GLOF on road communications – the continuing nightmare at Pedong and Toong. The Teesta valley GLOF reactivated a dormant landslide at Likhu Bhir which continues to pose a problem for traffic along NH10 so the Kalimpong District Administration has again closed that section of the highway for the weekend.

– TOONG bridge:  The bridge at Toong was vital for communications to North Sikkim and when the GLOF took it down, traffic had to be routed thru a longer and more dangerous route which we took while going to Chungthang in Nov2023.

The locals had constructed a wooden bridge over the Teesta river in Feb2024 (see below) which was being used by light vehicles. However, the recent rains in the area resulted in the bridge being damaged. Since the alternate route is longer and much more cumbersome, locals at once got down to repairing the damage. this bridge will hold out for much longer. Now that the pre- monsoon showers have started over the region…which leaves people in a rather precarious position with regard to all the GLOF damaged road communications in the region – a question which asked back in Nov2023… : How do people manage in the Monsoons of 2024? https://savethehills.blogspot.com/2024/04/impact-of-oct-2023-teesta-valley-glof.html  (07 April 2024)

Himachal Pradesh Rampur: Luhri project to see light of day by ‘2026’ Sunil Choudhary, head of the project said due to the protests by workers, farmers and others at the project construction site, the project had to suffer a loss of Rs 1.5 crore daily, due to the delay of the construction work. Besides, the companies engaged in construction were paid separate compensation for the stoppage of their machinery and other work. He added that so far an amount of Rs 15 to 20 crore has been given to the companies as compensation for such losses. Clearly the company is responsible for these losses as they have failed to do justice to or taken into confidence the affected people and workers. The project cost is likely to go up to Rs 2700 Cr compared to Rs 1890 Cr at the outset. He claimed the cost of power from the project is likely to Rs 4.53 per unit, but that is likely to go up considering the cost and time over runs. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/luhri-project-to-see-light-of-day-by-2026-606399  (01 April 2024)

Telangana plans to set up hydro power plant in HP The Telangana government is planning to set up a hydro power generation plant in Himachal Pradesh. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy had discussed the proposal with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in New Delhi recently. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/telangana-govt-plans-to-set-up-hydro-power-plant-in-himachal-pradesh-revanth-meets-hp-cm/article68013399.ece  (30 March 2024)

Hindi report on April 04, 1905 earthquake in Kangra district. https://shorturl.at/pyDJ9  (04 April 2024) Kangra earthquakes reignites lingering fear of devastating Himalayan trembler. https://weather.com/en-IN/india/news/news/2024-04-05-himachal-pradesh-earthquakes-reignites-lingering-fear  (05 April 2024)

Uttarakhand Govt to evaluate the risk of GLOFs The govt has constituted two teams of experts to evaluate the risk posed by five potentially hazardous glacial lakes in the region. These lakes are prone to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), the kind of events that have resulted in several disasters in the Himalayan states in recent years.

According to NDMA, there are 188 risky glacial lakes in Himalayas, of them 13 are in Uttarakhand, 10 of them are unnamed. 5 of them are in A (highest risk) category, including one in Chamoli and four in Pithoragarh district. https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/risk-from-glacial-lake-floods-9249967/  (04 April 2024)

Meghalaya Umiam dam rehab to extend lifespan by 35-40 years  Efforts to rehabilitate the Umiam Dam, a structure erected back in 1965, are currently underway, aimed at enhancing its longevity by 35-40 years. Concerns regarding the safety of the dam have prompted the government to initiate rehabilitation work, which commenced in December last year. The process, which involves replacing the dam’s bearings, began this past Sunday (March 31). The rehabilitation process includes a slight elevation of the structure by 5 to 10 millimeters, adhering to stability norms. While the scheduled completion date for the project is June, efforts are underway to expedite the process for a potential May completion, prioritising precision over haste due to the technical nature of the work. https://www.eastmojo.com/meghalaya/2024/04/02/meghalaya-umiam-dam-rehab-to-extend-lifespan-by-35-40-years/  (02 April 2024)

Industry SJVN Partners with IIT Patna to Enhance Tunneling Project Performance – The primary objective of the MoU is to leverage advanced geological models developed by IIT Patna to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of SJVN’s tunneling projects. https://currentaffairs.adda247.com/sjvn-partners-with-iit-patna-to-enhance-tunneling-project-performance/  (04 April 2024)

MoEF Key decisions EAC meeting on River Valley Projects held on March 20 2024:

1. Shahpur Pumped Storage Project (1800 MW) in 624.905 Ha at Kaloni, Baint and Mungawali villages, Shahabad Tehsil, District Baran, (Rajasthan) by Greenko Energies Private Limited – for Environmental Clearance: PP absent

2. Chichlik Pumped Storage Hydro Project (1560 MW) in 325.3 Ha at Village Argarh, Chichli, Khuraila and Pokharriya, Sub District Robertsganj, Dist Sonbhadra (Uttar Pradesh) by Avaada Waterbattery Pvt Ltd – Terms of References: More Info Sought

3. Bodwad Parisar Sinchan Yojana on river Tapi and Purna (CCA:53025 Ha) in 1729.64 Ha at Village Bodwad and Muktainagar, Sub District Muktainagar (Edlabad), Dist Jalgaon (Mah) by Tapi Irrigation Development Corp – Validity Extension of EC: Approved

4. Phata Byung Hydro Electric Project (76 MW) in 23.323 Ha, at Village Barasu, Byung, Jamu, Gair etc., Sub District Okhimath, Dist Rudraprayag (Uttarakhand) by Mandakini Jal Urja Pvt Ltd– Terms of Reference: Approved without PH

5. Site visit undertaken by EAC sub-committee on 23rd February, 2024 for Shirawta Off Stream Open Loop Pumped Storage Project of 1800 MW of Tata Power Company Ltdd at Village Khandshi, Tehsil Maval, Dist Pune (Mah): More Info Sought

6. Site visit undertaken by EAC sub-committee on 22 Feb, 2024 at Bhivpuri Off-Stream Open Loop Pumped Storage Project (1000 MW) of Tata Power Co. Ltd at Village Vadeshwar and Bhivpuri, Tehsil Karjat and Mawal, Dist Raigarh and Pune, Mah: More Info Sought

7. Kandhaura Closed Loop Pumped Storage Project (1680 MW) in 756.89 Ha at Village Sashnai, Markuri & Cherue, Taluka Obra and Robertsganj, Dist Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh by JSW Energy PSP Six Ltd – Reconsideration for Terms of References: the proposal was further examined in the Ministry and found that a portion of the Kandhaura project site falls within the ESZ of Kaimur WL, in which activity of Hydroelectric projects are prohibited.: EAC Re-affirsm TOR CLearance based on claim of the PP that project is not part of ESZ.

8. OA NO. 148 OF 2021 in the matter of D. Chandramouleswara Reddy Vs Union of India Before Hon’ble NGT (SZ), Chennai: – Hon’ble NGT (SZ) vide its order dated 22.12.2022 (Para 72 (vii) in the matter OA No. 148 of 2021 by D. Chandramouleswara Reddy Vs Union of India and OA No. 212 of 2021 in the matter of State of Andhra Pradesh vs. Union of India and Ors. before Hon’ble NGT (SZ), Chennai, directed for constituting a committee from EAC Members having expertise to go into the matter regarding mitigation, restoration and rehabilitation measure for ecological damage caused by construction of the aforesaid projects without EIA Study & Environmental Clearance.: Com reconstituted. “Further, EAC advised that the Ministry may engage NABET-accredited consultants (if required) for precise environmental damage cost assessments (if any as per the order Hon’ble NGT) and expenses shall be paid by the Project Proponent.” https://parivesh.nic.in/utildoc/57739194_1711953497371.pdf  (01 April 2024)

DAMS

Kaleshwaram Project IIT team finds Medigadda design faulty According to the report was prepared by a team of civil engineering faculty from the IIT Roorkee, the Medigadda dam disaster happened due to design faults and lack of maintenance. https://www.thehansindia.com/telangana/iit-roorkee-team-finds-medigadda-design-faulty-870580  (06 April 2024)

Ghose committee to begin probe Former Supreme Court judge Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose will soon take up inquiry into the alleged irregularities in Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme (KLIS). The state govt has provided an office to the judicial commission. The govt had ordered a judicial inquiry into the sinking of piers of Medigadda barrage and leakages in Sundilla and Annaram barrages and the state cabinet at its meeting two weeks ago urged the former judge to launch the probe. Irrigation secretary Rahul Bojja and senior irrigation officials met Justice Ghose at his residence in Kolkata on Tuesday (Apr 2) and briefed him about the project. The govt urged the commission to look into the financial aspect of the project and also technical flaws, if any, like designs, planning and execution in the irrigation project. “The judicial commission is expected to complete the investigation within 100 days as the timeframe fixed by the state cabinet,” a senior official said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/ghose-committee-to-begin-probe-into-kaleshwaram-soon/articleshow/108986442.cms  (03 April 2024)

Madhya Pradesh Very imp issue raised by Rajkumar Sinha of Bargi Bandh Visthapith Sangh:

Sardar Sarovar Project Narmada Dam references dropped from NCERT books …on Page 85, of Class 12 Sociology textbook titled ‘Indian Society,’ NCERT has said that the sentence — ‘Projects such as the Sardar Sarovar dam on the river Narmada in western India and the Polavaram dam on the river Godavari in Andhra Pradesh displace hundreds of thousands of adivasis, driving them to greater destitution,’ will be changed to, ‘Projects such as the Sardar Sarovar dam on the river Narmada in Western India and the Polavaram dam on the river Godavari in Andhra Pradesh displaced hundreds of thousands of adivasis from their original habitats,’ with deletion of the part — ‘driving them to greater destitution.

In other context of how the Narmada Dam project adversely affected communities, the mention of the project as an example has been completely dropped. On Page 47, Chapter three of the same textbook, the sentence — ‘The coming of private property in land has also adversely affected tribals, whose community-based forms of collective ownership were placed at a disadvantage in the new system. The most recent such example is the series of dams being built on the Narmada, where most of the costs and benefits seem to flow disproportionately to different communities and regions,’ will now read, ‘The coming of private property in land has also adversely affected tribals, whose community-based forms of collective ownership were placed at a disadvantage.’ NCERT says that the example (Narmada Dam Project) is not relevant in the present context in its clarification for removal of the text. https://www.thehindu.com/education/schools/rakhigarhi-findings-in-ncert-books-narmada-dam-references-dropped/article68033598.ece  (06 April 2024)

Thousands of fisherfolks of Bharuch district in Gujarat, who are going to lose their livelihoods due to the under construction Bhadbhut Dam on Narmada river, have resumed their protests. They are also protesting against the allotment of their land to the salt industrialists of Kutch.

Foundation of SAUNI Yojana pipeline laid CM Bhupendra Patel on Friday (Feb. 16) laied the foundation stone of a 72-km-long pipeline of Saurashtra Narmada Avataran Irrigation (SAUNI) Yojana for pumping Narmada water to four dams and 12 ponds of Vinchhiya and Jasdan talukas of Rajkot district and Chotila taluka of Surendranagar district, touted to be among the most challenging areas geographically.

An official release said the pipeline will be laid at a cost of Rs 181 crore as part of package-9 of Link IV pipeline canal of SAUNI Yojana. The feeder line will be given a tapping in the main line of Link IV at Asalpar. One pumping station each will be set up at Asalpar and Dharai dam of Chotila taluka. From Dharai dam, while one branch of the pipeline will go towards Alansagar dam near Jasdan town, the other will go towards Adhiya. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/cm-to-lay-foundation-of-feeder-line-to-link-narmada-water-to-rajkot-surendranagar-9164227/  (16 Feb. 2024)

Himachal Pradesh Muck dumping resumes in Bhakra reservoir After a brief hiatus, illegal muck dumping in Bhakra dam reservoir has resumed at various spots in Bilaspur district in violation of the high court directions. According to the Bilaspur-based Four-lane Visthapit and Prabahavit Samiti (FVPS) – an organisation that works for the people displaced by highway projects, muck from private plots is being dumped into the nullahs that feed the Bhakra dam reservoir by NHAI projects. The FVPS in its complaint to the Bilaspur deputy commissioner and superintendent of police stated that despite the ban orders by the high court, muck generated on private lands was being dumped into the nullahs that feed the Bhakra dam.

– Demanding action, the FVPS stated that muck from private plots in Dhararsani village under Jhandutta tehsil was being thrown into the nearby nullah which flows into the Bhakra dam reservoir, right under the nose of the district administration. The muck is being dumped unscientifically into the nullah without any retaining walls, the FVPS added. According to the Samiti, illegal muck dumping is also taking place in the areas, including Behna village in Jhandutta tehsil, Kothipura in Bilaspur tehsil and Taali and Jabbal in Nana Devi tehsil. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/shimla/in-hps-bilaspur-muck-dumping-resumes-in-bhakra-reservoir/articleshow/108957483.cms  (0 2 April 2024)

Opinion Heading into a dry run Mridula Ramesh Dams, protests, siltation, lost trees all play a role as water goes missing. What can we do to prepare for a new reality, amid climate change? Across India, on average, siltation was reducing reservoir capacities by 1% annually. In some reservoirs, the rate of siltation was five times the rate that dam builders had planned for. Losing upstream forests, incidentally, increases siltation.

Rivers flow fast in their early stretches, wearing away the earth beneath them and carrying the silt downstream. Farmers treasure this fertile silt but, in dams, silt reduces how much water a reservoir can hold. According to the Central Water Commission’s updated Compendium on Sedimentation of Reservoirs in India 2020, reservoirs built on east-flowing rivers in the Deccan were particularly prone to siltation, and, by 2009, the four major Karnataka reservoirs in the Cauvery basin had lost 4-10% of their holding capacity because of it. https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/art-culture/heading-into-a-dry-run-mridula-ramesh-on-water-101712403074099.html  (06 April 2024)

RIVERS AS NATIONAL WATERWAYS

Jharkhand मालवाहक जहाज ने दो नाव को मारी टक्कर साहिबगंज शहर के ओझा टोली घाट पर सोमवार (April 01) की शाम को बड़ी दुर्घटना होते होते टल गई. गंगा नदी में एक मालवाहक जहाज ने दो नाव को टक्कर मार दी. जिसमें एक नाव के दो टुकड़े हो गये और वो गंगा में समा गये. उस नाव पर बोरे में लदा तरबूज भी पानी में डूब गया. वहीं इस टक्कर से दूसरी नाव भी क्षतिग्रस्त हो गयी. नाव पर सवार करीब दस से अधिक किसानों ने पानी में कूद अपनी जान बचाई. जिस मालवाहक जहाज से नाव की टक्कर हुई थी वो किसका है ये मालूम नहीं चल पाया है. किसानों ने कहा कि जहाज को रुकने के लिए बोला गया लेकिन वो रुका नहीं, जिससे नाव के साथ जहाज की टक्कर हो गयी. किसानों ने प्रशासन से मुआवजे की मांग की है. https://www.etvbharat.com/hi/!state/accident-due-to-cargo-ship-hitting-two-boats-in-river-ganga-in-sahibganj-jhs24040107585  (01 April 2024)

URBAN RIVERS

Musi; Hyderabad River a deadly cocktail of antibiotics: Study  –At a time when the Telangana government is planning a Rs 50,000 crore Thames-like makeover for River Musi, new research shows that the water body is steeped in pharmaceutical contaminants. This includes a hazardous cocktail of commonly used antibiotics (Ciprofloxacin), antidepressants and anti-inflammatory (Naproxen and Diclofenac), antifungal medicines (Fluconazole) etc.

-It also has a high dosage of caffeine – present in several over-the-counter medicines for headaches and pains – shows the study, which was led by researchers from four premiere institutes, including the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT) and Australia-based Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). The study has been published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials.

-Researchers of the study also attribute the pollution in the Musi river to the widespread consumption of scheduled drugs and to pharma companies releasing untreated waste into the water body. The study also measured environmental hazards of these drugs in the water on three species- invertebrates, algae and fishes, and found that each of these pharma pollutants had moderate to high toxicity for the species. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/awaiting-rs-50k-cr-makeover-musi-now-a-deadly-cocktail-of-antibiotics-study/articleshow/108891701.cms  (30 March 2024)

No construction permits within 50mts of river The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has decided not to authorize any new constructions or developmental works within 50 meters from the Musi river boundary in alignment with the state government’s focus on revitalizing the 55-km long polluted Musi river through the Musi Riverfront Development Project. https://www.siasat.com/hyderabad-no-construction-permit-within-50-mts-of-musi-river-3003177/  (03 April 2024)

Nag; Nagpur River system to be scanned for flood management The Maharashtra state irrigation department has suggested that the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) conduct a detailed hydrological study to tackle the flooding issues in Nag River. NMC superintending engineer Shweta Banerjee said, “The state agency has recommended NMC engage the Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS), Pune, for the study.” If appointed, the Pune agency will perform a comprehensive analysis of Nag River, its tributaries, the drainage channels that feed into the river, and the catchment areas of these water bodies.

In the past, the NGT had ordered several municipal corporations, including NMC, to mark flood lines alongside Nag River. However, the civic body could not initiate the process citing obstructions like retaining walls in carrying out the exercise. It only carried out a contour survey of 3km stretch of Nag River ahead of the Pardi area, out of the total 17km stretch of the river starting from Ambazari lake overflow point. Apart from this 3km stretch currently, there are no flood lines marked alongside the three rivers — Nag, Pili, and Pora — that pass through various localities within the city limits. Every year, residents of many localities, especially on the banks of Nag and Pili rivers, face flooding. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/nag-river-system-to-be-scanned-for-flood-mgmt/articleshow/109097643.cms  (07 April 2024)

RIVERS

Report 13  rivers without water “At least 13 east-flowing rivers between Mahanadi and Pennar have no water at the moment, according to an analysis of data released by the Central Water Commission (CWC). They include Rushikulya, Bahuda, Vamsadhara, Nagavali, Sarada, Varaha, Tandava, Eluru, Gundlakamma, Tammileru, Musi, Paleru and Munneru. Flowing through the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Odisha through an area of 86,643 square kilometre (sq km), the rivers drain directly into the Bay of Bengal. Agricultural land in this basin is around 60 per cent of the total area and this situation even before the peak of summer is alarming.” https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/water/india-s-parched-rivers-at-least-13-without-water-much-lower-than-same-period-last-year-95319  (-1 April 2024)

Himanshu Thakkar, coordinator of South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People (SANDRP), highlighted multiple reasons for the decline in reservoir water levels, including reduced monsoon rainfall and changing rainfall patterns. Thakkar also mentioned the degradation of catchment areas and groundwater depletion as contributing factors. “Last year, monsoons were lesser compared to 2022, which is one reason why the reservoir capacity is lower than last year,” he said stressing that catchment degradation leads to faster rainfall runoff into rivers and reduced non-monsoon inflows,” he said. https://theprint.in/india/east-flowing-rivers-between-mahanadi-and-pennar-basins-have-no-water-at-present-official-data/2031295/  (07 April 2024)

Study Irrigation-driven gw depletion in Ganges-Brahmaputra basin decreases streamflow in BoB Abstract Irrigation-driven groundwater depletion and climate change affect the Ganges-Brahmaputra’s hydrology, threatening the stability of the Bay of Bengal. Here, we quantify, using results from a land reanalysis, the impacts of a changing climate and intensive irrigation on the surface water flowing into the Bay of Bengal.

The effects of such activities mostly occurring in the Ganges basin, either intensified or lessened depending on the area by the climatic conditions, decrease freshwater flow into the bay by up to 1200 m3/s/year. While the increase in precipitation in the Ganges basin reduces the effects of groundwater depletion on the streamflow, the decrease in precipitation and the snowmelt decline in the Brahmaputra basin exacerbate streamflow reduction due to groundwater depletion at the delta. https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01348-0  (1 April 2024)

GANGA Veditum’s documentary Moving Upstream: Ganga from Siddharth’s 3000km walk along the Ganga is now Open Access on YouTube.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stG5BbMSCkE  (04 April 2024)

YAMUNA Manthan DDA Continues to Destroy River Floodplains DDA being the custodian of floodplain is expected to protect the floodplain and restore it without affecting its natural registration as reminded by NGT several times. However, the agency continues to be insensitive and acting ignorant towards floodplain ecology and is managing floodplain affairs in complete unaccountable and illegal manner. Due to discontinuation of Yamuna Monitoring Committee and non-functioning of Yamuna Principal Committee, the river is losing its floodplains bit by bit which is very much a recipe for disaster as seen during 2023 floods. In such a situation NGT is requested to take sou moto action against DDA, forest department and make them undo soil dumping from the site. We also hope the NGT will soon resume monitoring of Yamuna floodplains by independent expert committee before it is too late. https://sandrp.in/2024/04/03/yamuna-manthan-030424-dda-continues-to-destroy-river-floodplains/  (03 April 2024)

Haryana 13 units in Sonipat shut for discharging chemicals  As many as 13 dyeing units in Sonipat have been shut down after they were found discharging untreated effluents into open areas and drains, which ultimately flow into the Yamuna. This was submitted to the NGT on Friday (April 05) by a joint committee comprising representatives from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB), and district magistrates from Sonipat.

In Jan, the tribunal directed four districts of Haryana — Gurgaon, Sonipat, Faridabad and Jhajjar — to carry out a ground survey and inspect dyeing units falling in the ‘red category’, which have high pollution levels. The districts requested eight weeks’ time on Friday to complete the task. NGT’s directions came while hearing a petition stating that residential areas in the four Haryana districts are grappling with severe water contamination due to the presence of ‘red category’ units. Petitioner Varun Gulati alleged that these units “have not installed effluent treatment plants or any other anti-pollution devices and are discharging untreated effluents into the open area or in the drains, which ultimately flow into the Yamuna.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/13-units-shut-for-discharging-chemicals-into-yamuna-in-sonipat-city-factories-on-radar/articleshow/109076494.cms  (06 April 2024)

Noida NGT seeks response on construction at Okhla Bird Sanctuary Thedevelopment, part of a NGT hearing on March 21, came days after the UPirrigation department on March 19 temporarily halted construction work on a road inside the sanctuary, following opposition from birders and nature enthusiasts against the activity inside the eco-sensitive zone. The road in question would provide access to a crematorium located behind the park, officials said.

-The Okhla Bird Sanctuary in Gautam Budh Nagar is spread across 400 hectares along the Yamuna and is designated an IBA (important bird area) site. Notified as a bird sanctuary in 1990, the park is part of the Central Asian Flyway and according to birders, more than 20,000 birds of over 70 native and migratory species can be spotted at the site.

-Environmental activist Yogesh Kumar, meanwhile, moved NGT on March 18, stating that an approach road to a cremation ground inside the sanctuary was being laid. The sanctuary is situated on the floodplains of Yamuna River and no permanent construction can be raised inside the sanctuary,” the petition read. The next date of hearing is July 2. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/noida-news/ngt-seeks-response-from-centre-up-bodies-on-construction-at-okhla-bird-sanctuary-101711476007601.html  (27 March 2024) A similar issue of a road being built in Okhla Bird Sanctuary was flagged in 2004, when it went to the Supreme Court. The apex court had then created a central empowered committee (CEC), which ruled in 2006 that no construction is allowed in the sanctuary. “The road, which was constructed within the sanctuary, has been dismantled by the Noida Authority. In future, no new road will be allowed to be constructed within the sanctuary,” the CEC report had said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/road-in-okhla-sanctuary-ngt-seeks-replies-from-up-centre-and-noida/articleshow/108757001.cms  (25 March 2024)

RIVERS BIODIVERSITY

Tamil Nadu Tamirabharani fish count reveals 36 species, smooth-coated otters A random fish count conducted at seven places along the Tamirabharani watercourse has revealed that the perennial river has 36 fish species and rare smooth-coated Otters in Papanasam area. The Tamirabharani River, the southernmost major east-flowing river in peninsular India, stands as Tamil Nadu’s sole perennial river. Originating from the scenic and salubrious Agasthyamalai Hills in the Western Ghats, it traverses approximately 130 Km and nourishes over 88,000 acres of land before entering the Gulf of Mannar. The river basin boasts a highly diverse fish fauna, with a 2019 study documenting 125 species, including six endangered and four threatened species. These fish contribute significantly to Tamil Nadu’s freshwater fish diversity with seven endemic species exclusive to this river basin.

– ATREE’s Agasthyamalai Community Conservation Centre (ACCC), as part of its ‘Citizen Science’ programmes, conducted the Tamirabharani Fish Count in collaboration with Sri Paramakalyani Centre for Environmental Sciences, a satellite centre of Manonmanium Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli and the Department of Zoology, Sadakathullah Appa College, Palayamkottai in the last week of March. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/tamirabharani-fish-count-reveals-36-species-smooth-coated-otters/article68002962.ece  (28 March 2024)

FISH, FISHERIES, FISHERFOLKS

Mumbai Coastal Road spells doom for the city’s Kolis Lives and livelihoods of the oldest inhabitants of Mumbai, the Kolis, have been drastically affected ever since the Coastal Road construction began. The ongoing infrastructural work has not only altered the familiar coastline of the city but also the way the fisherfolk have been forced to live. At Worli Koliwada, one of the more affected settlements, the fisherfolk have had to contend with difficulty in navigating the waters, depleting numbers of fish, and a large dip in their earnings. Fishing, which was their major occupation, is not sufficient now as fish breeding grounds have borne the brunt of the construction work. Also, they have had to put up a long struggle merely to have their concerns heard in the corridors of power. This photo essay narrates the story of Worli Koliwada facing the onslaught of the city’s development agenda. (Aboli Maharwade)  https://questionofcities.org/mumbais-shiny-new-coastal-road-spells-doom-for-the-citys-kolis/  (07 April 2024)

SAND MINING

SANDRP Blog Why Existing Rules, Regulations Fail to Deter Illegal Sand Miners of Ken River? Some recent short video clips, media reports and satellite images have again revealed that sand miners continue to indulge in river destructive mining activities in government approved mine sites in three districts of two states namely Panna and Chhatarpur districts of Madhya Pradesh and in Banda district of Uttar Pradesh.

The miners here have blatantly violated the existing mining rules, MoEF guidelines and NGT orders while the respective regulatory agencies have miserably failed to enforce the laws and ensure compliance. https://sandrp.in/2024/04/06/why-existing-rules-regulations-fail-to-deter-illegal-sand-miners-of-ken-river/  (06 April 2024)

Maharashtra After 10 yrs, govt compensates kin of 3 girls who drowned in sand mining pit Nearly 10 years ago three girls from Gubbewada village in Indi taluk in Vijaypura drowned on July 4, 2014 in abandoned sand mining pit in Bhima river on Maharashtra side. Maharashtra has now deposited part of the compensation for these deaths in the accounts of the affected family members. In 2018, NGT had ordered compensation of Rs 25 lakh each. NGT held KJ Infrastructure Pvt Ltd, a Pune based company, liable for the damage. In 2022 SC dismissed an appeal against the NGT order and ordered depositng of Rs 45 lakh in three months in District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) in Vijaypura. However, the applicant before the NGT had to move an execution application for disbursement of compensation. Last week, the env dept of Mah submitted before NGT that a check of Rs 51.18 lakh has been released by the district collector, Solapur to DLSA including 45 lakhs + Rs 6.18 lakh interest. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/after-10-yrs-maharashtra-compensates-kin-of-3-karnataka-girls-who-drowned-in-sand-mining-pit-2968872  (08 April 2024)

Haryana IAS officer’s car chased by illegal miners Haryana Police Saturday (April 06) registered an FIR under the charges of attempt to murder after the car of IAS officer Yash Jaluka, who had gone for inspection of illegal mining in Ambala district at midnight, was chased and an attempt was made to hit the vehicle. While the incident took place on March 28, a complaint was made Friday (April 06) after verifying details about the accused, a police officer said. A 2021-batch IAS officer, Jaluka (29) is currently posted as SDM Naraingarh in Ambala district.

According to the FIR, based on the complaint filed by Constable Jasbir Singh, the PSO of the SDM, Jaluka, along with local tehsildar Abhishek Pilania, had left his Naraingarh residence in a private vehicle to inspect illegal mining in the area at 1 am on March 28. “An Innova car started following the vehicle. When an attempt was made to flag down the Innova, its driver tried to hit the SDM’s vehicle. Then, the officers followed the Innova car. When its driver was called, he again tried to hit the SDM’s vehicle,” said Jasbir Singh, who was accompanying the officer.

According to Jasbir Singh, later when the driver of the Innova car was called, he apologised for the incident. The police sources said that the person was probably engaged in the mining business in the area and had been sharing the location of the officers in the WhatsApp groups of the persons engaged in mining. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/haryana-ias-officer-car-chased-illegal-mining-9256925/  (08 April 2024)

EDIT: Illegal Mining The recent directive by the NGT to the Haryana Govt, laying bare flaws in its approach to tackling illegal mining, underscores a worrisome disregard for environmental protection. The NGT’s scrutiny of Rule 104 of the Haryana Minor Mineral Concession, Stocking and Transportation of Minerals and Prevention of Illegal Mining Rules, 2012, has revealed a significant oversight in the state’s standard operating procedure (SOP) regarding the imposition and recovery of environmental damage compensation. At the heart of the issue lies the provision of Rule 104 to exempt the first two offences of illegal mining from the registration of FIRs, raising questions about its compliance with constitutional provisions and directives from higher judicial authorities. This leniency not only undermines the gravity of the problem but also weakens the deterrent effect that strict enforcement measures could have. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/editorials/illegal-mining-605994  (01 April 2024)

GPS mandate for transporting minerals: NGT Expressing its concern over the lack of action against those who are involved in illegal mining in the Aravalis, NGT has mandated that only GPS-equipped vehicles will be permitted to transport minerals to stone crushers and screening plants in Gurgaon, Faridabad and Nuh. From 15 April, any vehicle transporting minerals without GPS can be seized by police. NGT has also given Haryana a three-week deadline to submit a new report on the same. The tribunal’s decision came while hearing a plea filed by the Aravalli Bachao Citizens Movement, which alleged that stone quarrying is rampant in the protected area despite the Supreme Court’s blanket ban on mining in 2009. The next hearing in this matter is on May 2. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/gps-mandate-for-transporting-minerals-ngts-new-move-to-fight-illegal-miners/articleshow/109076405.cms  (06 April 2024)

Report Sand substitute developed by IISc Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru have created a promising new material that can replace natural sand in construction. The team at IISc’s Centre for Sustainable Technologies (CST) is exploring methods to utilise carbon dioxide (CO2) captured from industrial waste gases. They treat excavated soil and construction waste with this CO2, transforming it into a viable sand alternative. “These materials can then be used to partially replace natural sand. This would not only reduce the environmental impact of construction materials but also impart properties that can enhance their use for construction,” stated IISc in a press release (https://iisc.ac.in/…/paving-new-paths-for-sustainable…/) on March 27 2024. Led by Assistant Professor Souradeep Gupta, the research demonstrates that using CO2-treated construction waste in mortar, followed by curing in a CO2-rich environment, significantly accelerates the development of the material’s strength.

– This innovative process boasts a 20-22% increase in the material’s compressive strength. Additionally, injecting CO2 into clay soil, commonly found at construction sites, improves its interaction with cement and lime. This not only stabilises the clay but also enhances its overall engineering performance. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/sand-substitute-developed-by-indian-scientists-for-eco-friendly-construction-5358009  (02 April 2024)

Study Sand mining in Mekong: Extent & compounded impacts Abstract: -While the physical and hydrological impacts of sand mining is well studied, studies on the ecological and socio-economic ramifications remain sparse. In addition, the ways in which upstream dams, irrigation infrastructure, excessive groundwater extraction, and sea-level rise (SLR) have amplified the effects of sand mining was also considered in this review. This paper concludes by advocating for the adoption of remote sensing-based approaches for effective mapping of sand mining activities and the need to mine sustainably to balance developmental needs with environmental conservation. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969724017625  (10 May 2024)

WETLANDS, LAKES, WATER BODIES

Himachal Pradesh Revised draft proposal of Pong wetland ESZ to be finalised The official sources say a revised draft proposal will be ready by this month’s end, before the expiry of the previous ESZ notification on April 28. It would be published in the gazette and a timeline of 60 days will be given to all stakeholders to register their objections and observations. The revised draft proposal is being prepared in accordance with the revised sanctuary boundaries and after due consultations with different stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, ecologists and non-government organisations.

Reginald Royston, DFO Wildlife, Hamirpur admitted that the revised draft of the ESZ was being prepared after raising concerns of the boundaries of the wildlife sanctuary by the local inhabitants and their doubts and concerns raised after the declaration of the ESZ around the wetland were being addressed in the consultative meetings being convened by the CCF, Dharamsala. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/revised-draft-proposal-of-pong-wetland-eco-sensitive-zone-to-be-finalised-soon-607983  (06 April 2024)

Tamil Nadu 207 wetlands outside protected areas The State-run Advanced Institute of Wildlife Conservation (AIWC) has conducted a detailed assessment and identified 207 wetlands across the State, which are located outside the protected areas, and have potential to be declared as bird sanctuaries.

These wetlands were classified based on bird abundance, area size, and presence of vulnerable species, adhering to wetland assessment protocols. Among the 207 potential wetlands identified, the AIWC research team has zeroed-in on 10 top priority wetlands that needed immediate recognition.  https://www.newindianexpress.com/xplore/2024/Apr/06/207-wetlands-outside-protected-areas-in-tamil-nadu-have-potential-to-be-declared-as-bird-sanctuaries  (06 April 2024)

Haryana Govt starts survey on impact of infra projects on Sultanpur park State govt has initiated an assessment of the cumulative impact of housing societies around Sultanpur National Park, a Ramsar site, on its ecosystem. This comes in response to the rapid development of the area. Govt will soon submit its findings to the st  anding committee of the Centre’s National Board for Wildlife (NBWL). The committee has already reviewed measures taken for the preservation of wetlands and Ramsar sites in the state and also studied the water flow from Sultanpur to Najafgarh.

-According to officials, govt’s assessment was prompted by the standing committee’s directive on Feb 28 to evaluate the impact of infrastructure projects in the area. It was issued while the panel was considering a proposal to use nearly 3.7 hectares of land for an affordable group housing colony at Garhi Harsaru in Sector 95B, which is 4km away from the national park’s boundary and falls within its eco-sensitive zone. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/govt-starts-survey-on-impact-of-infra-projects-on-sultanpur-park/articleshow/109016081.cms  (04 April 2024)

WATER OPTIONS

Odisha Climate-resilient agriculture through rice fallow initiative Rice fallow, or uncropped land left after rice harvest, is a major agricultural issue in eastern India. However, introducing technologies and crops with tailored agronomy based on landscape suitability helps turn it into an opportunity. It also helps farm income and ensure food and nutritional security. Odisha has a cultivable area of over 6.18 million hectares and is endowed with 10 agro-climatic zones. The state predominantly relies on rice cultivation to meet the food demands of its population, which is about 45 million. The area under rice crops accounts for about 60 per cent of the total sown area during the Kharif season.

– The rice fallow management approach, the principal secretary said, “helps in enhancing crop coverage, reducing soil degradation, increasing soil nutrients through crop systems approach, improving nutrition security through the consumption of pulses and other crops and above all, making effective use of the natural resources of the region. The Government of Odisha aims to further scale the rice fallow management initiative in coming years.” In a pursuit to improve farm production with a focus on regenerative agricultural practices, the state government implemented the comprehensive project on rice fallow management for the first time during the 2022-23 Rabi season, achieving about 70,000 hectares during the said season.

– Taking a cue from its success and experiential learning, during the 2023-24 Rabi season, the programme has been scaled up to 382,000 hectares against the target of 400,000. The scheme is being implemented in all 30 districts of the state. Key objectives of the scheme include optimal utilisation of residual soil moisture, increasing cropping intensity, upscaling production of pulses and oilseeds, restoration of soil health and fostering better market linkages for the produce. Eight crops, including green gram, black gram, field pea, Bengal gram, grass pea, lentil, mustard and sesamum have been targeted under the scheme. Local varieties of green gram have shown great potential. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/agriculture/how-odisha-is-promoting-climate-resilient-agriculture-through-rice-fallow-initiative-95363  (03 April 2024)

Bengaluru Campaign to revive open wells picks up A Million Wells” Campaign has. aided in desilting, cleaning and reviving 2.5 lakh wells since it was launched in 2000 by Biome Environmental Trust and Friends of Lake. They have on board 750 traditional well diggers from Mannu Vaddar community.

This year they are getting 10-12 queries daily from apartment complexes/ gated communities says S Vishwanath. Wells can be revived in 3-4 days they need to cleaned and disinfected once a year and desilted in 5-7 years. It can give 4000-5000 liters of water daily to cater to needs of about 5 families. Reviving wells can be a major part of Bangalore’s water solution. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/campaign-to-revive-open-wells-picks-up-amid-water-crisis-2962585  (03 April 2024) Newly rejuvenated open wells help meet water demand. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/newly-rejuvenated-open-wells-help-meet-water-demand-during-crisis-2959667  (01 April 2024)

Delhi 14th-century dam still stands strong As one walks out of the labyrinth of Khirki village, home to the majestic Khirki Masjid, a short distance away, an easy-to-miss sign towards the left announces: Satpula. Entering the complex, one is greeted with an arched gate leading to a magnificent Tughlaq-era dam. Built in 1340 by Mohammad Bin Tughlaq, the dam served two purposes: Providing a reliable source of water for irrigation, and acting as a defence against possible intruders. Centuries later, the stream over which the dam was built was diverted by the British, reducing the water body to a mere drain flowing on one side. However, the Satpula structure remains formidable as ever, reminding one of the type of masonry the empire was capable of. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/built-to-supply-water-act-as-bastion-this-14th-century-dam-still-stands-strong-9257154/  (08 April 2024)

URBAN LAKES, WETLANDS

Mumbai Greens oppose changes in wetland classification  -Greens have expressed dismay over the move of the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) dividing the wetland in sector 60, Nerul, in two parts (TS Chanakya wetland as Pocket-A and NRI wetland as Pocket-B) in the Development Plan published in the government gazette on February 23 this year. However, the draft Development Plan of Navi Mumbai published in August 2022 had shown the area collectively as a wetland. Expressing anguish, the environmental activists claimed that the changes proposed by the civic body, if allowed, will result in diversion of over 37 hectares of existing water bodies and mangroves through reclamation for residential and other uses. Even IAS officers’ CHS has opposed the NMMC move. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/navi-mumbai-greens-oppose-changes-in-wetland-classification/articleshow/108912946.cms  (31 March 2024)

Kolkata BMC move over buildings in wetlands Officials from the Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation (BMC) will meet their counterparts from the East Kolkata Wetlands Authority this week to prepare a plan of action in regard to unauthorised buildings and under-construction sites in the area, officials said. No permanent building is allowed in the East Kolkata Wetlands, which was declared a Ramsar Site in 2002.

– The BMC has two wards — 35 and 36 — parts of which are within the East Kolkata Wetlands. The two wards, behind Sukantanagar, have bheris such as Khasmahal, Kulipara and Chhainabi that are within the wetlands. According to an official of the civicbody, several concrete buildings have come up without any sanction from the authorities in Khasmahal, Kulipara and Chhainabi. This newspaper has reported that the civic body would start a survey of such buildings in these two wards and the findings will be shared with the wetlands authority. “We will share our findings. The meeting next week will be held to discuss an action plan regarding these buildings and under-construction sites,” a senior official of the BMC said. In these two wards, the civic body has found more than 100 buildings that have come up illegally over the past few years, sources in the BMC said. Many of these are within the East Kolkata Wetlands. https://www.telegraphindia.com/my-kolkata/news/bidhannagar-municipal-corporation-move-over-buildings-in-wetlands/cid/2010307  (01 April 2024)

URBAN WATER

Film ‘Wettest place’ is facing a water crisis Why the ‘wettest place on Earth’ is facing a water crisis? The Northeast Indian town of Sohra regularly receives a downpour of continuous rainfall, sometimes for eight days at a stretch. But today, locals in the area are facing a severe water shortage. They now walk long distances daily and resort to unconventional methods to fetch water for basic, everyday use. What’s behind the water crisis in the ‘wettest place on Earth’? Filmed by Ruella Rahman Khound, Dipanjan Sinha and Gourav Gogoi. https://www.bbc.com/reel/video/p0hmngn0/why-the-wettest-place-on-earth-is-facing-a-water-crisis  (01 April 2024)

Bengaluru Primary source of water goes down the drain Sewage ingress into the stormwater drains near the Rainbow Drive (RBD) layout is leading to contamination of the 380 recharge wells inside. The drain was constructed around the RBD layout by Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) owing to flooding in the layout. The presence of 380 recharge wells inside the layout has been a reliable method to recharge groundwater levels. But with sewage-mixed water entering the layout through the stormwater drain, the groundwater is getting contaminated, causing concern. Residents say that, despite multiple requests, there haven’t been any efforts from Palike officials. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/primary-source-of-water-goes-down-the-drain/articleshow/108958233.cms  (02 April 2024)    

BWSSB moots treated water pipelines Furthering its bid to promote use of treated water for non-potable purposes, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) Saturday said it was contemplating supplying treated water to industries through a dedicated pipeline. If achieved, the board said, this could be a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country.

– In a separate statement, BWSSB announced another extension the deadline for the installation of flow restrictor/aerator devices to Apr 30 2024. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/bwssb-moots-treated-water-pipelines/articleshow/109097103.cms  (07 April 2024)

Kochi Water crisis looms  – Over 95% households in Kochi depend solely on water supply. As per KWA data, the city’s water supply faces shortage of 80 million litres daily. Places like Edappally, Vennala, Cheranalloor, Vaduthala and Vypeen are already experiencing acute water shortage. This predicament, the official believes, offers a glimpse into the broader water management challenges confronting the district.

-While it is easy to blame climate change for it all, a main contributor to the now-unfolding dilemma is the decrease in agriculture, the disappearing of fields, and the filling of wetlands. Earlier, these essentially acted as water storage tanks, helping rainwater seep down to groundwater level. Now, without these, Kerala’s topography, which spans from the hills to the coast, sees a quick flow of water collected from the river basin to the sea. https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/2024/Apr/03/bangalore-days-in-kochi-water-crisis-looms-over-city-amid-extreme-summer   (03 April 2024)

Hyderabad Emergency pumping from NS dam from April 15 As water levels continue to decline in Nagarjuna Sagar (Krishna) and Yellampally (Godavari) reservoirs, reaching the minimum drawdown levels (MDDL), the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) has initiated emergency pumping arrangements to extract water from dead storage. The works have already commenced and emergency pumping from Nagarjuna Sagar will start from April 15 and at Yellampally from May 1. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2024/Apr/04/emergency-pumping-from-nagarjuna-sagar-from-april-15  (04 April 2024)

Mumbai Life comes cheap for India’s richest corporation Ten persons lost their lives in Mumbai over 13 days earlier this month. What took their lives was the criminal negligence that has become the default method of functioning for Mumbai’s municipal corporation. https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/life-comes-cheap-for-indias-richest-corporation-2963202  (03 April 2024) -It seems inconceivable that a municipal corporation would have no liability at all if it is demonstrated that a death has been caused due to its negligence said Bombay high court on Thursday (April 04) and converted news reports of death of two children aged four and five in Wadala garden water tank, into a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL). The HC issued notice to (BMC. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/hc-inconceivable-that-a-municipal-corporation-would-have-no-liability-if-a-death-due-to-its-negligence-take-up-childrens-death-as-suo-motu-pil/articleshow/109044464.cms  (04 April 2024)

Noida NGT seeks builders’ replies on GW extracted at 63 project sites The directive came after a petition was filed by environmentalists Pradeep Dahalyia and Prasoon Pant, who alleged that groundwater was being extracted at 63 projects in Greater Noida West. The petitioners said that these developers were also fined Rs 300 crore by a committee comprising officials of the district administration, UP Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) and the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA). The petitioners also said that they will file their own responses as there are several new projects in Greater Noida West where illegal groundwater extraction could be going on.

-Earlier, NGT had said that notices should be issued to all builders in Bisrakh and govt offices that extract ground water illegally. The tribunal further added that since no formal notices were issued by the tribunal to all project proponents who may be affected by the ultimate order, notices should be issued to all respondents, except those who are already represented. However, till now the builders have not filed their responses in NGT. The next hearing is scheduled on April 29. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/groundwater-extracted-at-63-project-sites-in-gr-noida-west-ngt-seeks-builders-replies/articleshow/108925882.cms  (01 April 2024)

Gurugram SPCB says landfill leachate polluting GW, MCG trashes claim Water samples collected by SPCB from areas near the Bandhwari landfill have been found to contain toxic substances and chemicals, much higher than the permissible limits. MCG, however, has denied any contamination by leachate spill from the landfill, claiming that the spots from where the samples were collected were over 20km away from the site. HSPCB submitted a report to the NGT on Thursday (April 04) following tests conducted on samples collected from 10 areas near the landfill’s waste processing plant on Feb 24. The tests came after NGT directed the board to determine if untreated leachate was being dumped into the fragile ecosystem of the Aravalis. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/hspcb-says-landfill-leachate-polluting-groundwater-mcg-trashes-its-claim/articleshow/109047609.cms  (05 April 2024) – The NGT has expressed dissatisfaction with the steps taken by the municipal corporations of Gurgaon and Faridabad to process daily and legacy waste at Bandhwari landfill. It has asked for a fresh report, citing undisclosed advancements in their recent submissions. The tribunal has also questioned the rationale behind sending groundwater samples to a lab in Punjab even though SPCB has its own facilities for testing. The next hearing in this matter is on April 04. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/corpns-face-ngt-flak-over-bandhwari-waste-processing-told-to-file-report/articleshow/108955620.cms  (02 April 2024)

WATER

Telangana Officers appointed to monitor drinking water situation in urban, rural areas As per a Government Order (G.O) issued on Wednesday (April 03), the officers were directed to visit the districts immediately to coordinate with the district collectors, State level departments and monitor the drinking water situation till the end of July, 2024. The orders were issued three-days after CM directed officials to ensure there is proper supply of energy and drinking water as demand is increasing for the two resources. To supply drinking water till the end of June, Mr. Reddy has suggested authorities to use borewells, open wells and other sources. Also, the CM directed the Collectors to prepare village-wise action plans to ensure issues with the supply of drinking water do not arise. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/telangana-govt-appoints-10-ias-officers-to-monitor-drinking-water-situation-in-urban-and-rural-areas/article68023755.ece  (03 April 2024)

Who is responsible for drought-like situation? Telangana is facing first drought since the state was formed in 2014. Krishna basin is facing the worst inflows since 40 years. There was no planning by agri department about Rabi crops once the bad news from Kaleshwaram came. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2024/Apr/03/who-is-responsible-for-telanganas-drought-like-situation  (03 April 2024)

While the government claims that apart from scanty rainfall, the damages to Medigadda and Annaram projects due to alleged Kaleshwaram scam was responsible for this difficult situation. “The state is passing through a tough situation and the government is struggling to find a solution to address the irrigation and drinking water needs,” said sources. The South Telangana districts were also reeling under drought situation due to water shortage in the Krishna basin reservoirs. https://www.thehansindia.com/news/cities/hyderabad/hyderabad-may-go-bengaluru-way-869470  (02 April 2024)

Kerala Parched summer a wake-up call Kerala is paying the price for the destruction of nature, particularly water bodies and wetlands. Quarrying, deforestation, rampant construction activities, and encroachment of water bodies have reduced the land’s capacity to absorb water and destroyed the natural draining systems that once ensured that Kerala didn’t get flooded and its groundwater was recharged. While the floods exposed its decreasing ability to handle rain, this summer has bared its inability to make use of whatever rain it gets.

-What’s hurting Kerala is its failure to adapt to climatic changes. Water management and conservation assume greater significance in the new scenario. The sagging efforts to restore and conserve water bodies need a new push. Rainwater harvesting, construction of small check dams, and restoration of ponds can go a long way in dealing with water shortages. https://www.newindianexpress.com/editorials/2024/Apr/01/parched-summer-a-wake-up-call-for-kerala  (01 April 2024)  

MONSOON

Study Skewed showers in south; worry for agriculture A study of south Bengal’s rainfall figures over 60 years from 1961 shows a clear decline in the amount of rain in early monsoon and an increase in rain in the latter part of the season, often stretching into October. The change in pattern, which emerged in the study conducted by the state environment department, could have serious implications in agriculture. It also increases risks of flooding and waterlogging in cities. The shift has not been noticed in north Bengal, said those associated with the study.

– The data was procured from the India Meteorological Department. The Indian Statistical Institute sorted the data and did a preliminary analysis for the state. The analysis was done as part of the efforts to prepare a climate action plan for the state. Rainfall data from 1901 was collected and the period was divided into four blocks of 30 years each. The study pinned down on 60 years, a period imprinted in living memory. “We compared the period 1961 to 1990 with the period 1991 to 2020. We found a clear shift in the rainfall pattern in south Bengal — especially the Gangetic alluvial plain and the coastal zone. There has been a decline in early monsoon rain or rainfall in June and a simultaneous increase in late monsoon rain, starting September and stretching till October,” said Kalyan Rudra, a member of the committee formed to prepare the State Action Plan on Climate Change and the chairperson of the state pollution control board.

– He said more rain during the latter part of the monsoon also increases surface run-off and poses risks of flood and waterlogging. “As the soil remains dry, most of the rain in early monsoon gets absorbed in the soil. This increases soil moisture and recharges groundwater. But if it rains more during the late monsoon, there is a possibility of more surface run-off because the soil is mostly saturated with moisture,” he said. https://www.telegraphindia.com/my-kolkata/news/study-confirms-skewed-showers-in-south-worry-for-agriculture/cid/2010773  (03 April 2024)

ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE

SC barred unregulated soil extraction for linear projects The Supreme Court has set aside a notification issued by the Environment Ministry three years ago that exempted extraction of ordinary earth for linear projects, such as road and railways construction, from obtaining Environmental Clearance (EC). The exemption, offered in March 2020, was challenged before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which asked the Ministry in October 2020 to review it within three months. As the Ministry dragged its feet, the matter reached the top court, which on March 21 this year struck down the “blanket” and “arbitrary” exemption.

– The Centre argued before the NGT that the exemption was necessary “for the aid of general public”, and would help “the kumhars (potters), farmers, gram panchayats, vanjara, oads of Gujarat”, and all non-mining activities identified by the states. It also said that grant of exemption was a policy matter that did not warrant judicial interference. The exemption was challenged before the NGT on the ground that allowing the extraction of earth indiscriminately was arbitrary and violative of Article 14 of the Constitution of India. The petitioner argued that the exemption violated the requirement of prior EC in the leases as laid down by the top court in Deepak Kumar versus the State of Haryana (2012). The Centre sat on the NGT order until the appellant moved the SC. It was only after the SC concluded the hearing and reserved its judgment on August 10, 2023, that the Ministry issued an Office Memorandum on August 21, laying down the enforcement mechanism for the exemption. On August 30, 2023, the Ministry notified that the exemption in question would be “subject to the compliance of standard operating procedures and environmental safeguards issued in this regard from time to time”. https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-law/why-supreme-court-barred-unregulated-soil-extraction-for-linear-projects-9245830/  (02 April 2024)

Climate change impacts constitutional guarantee of right to equality: SC Climate change impacts the constitutional guarantee of the right to equality, the Supreme court has said while constituting a committee to find a balance between conservation of critically-endangered Great Indian Bustard and renewable energy infrastructure in the states of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The top court recalled an earlier order of April 2021 that required undergrounding of overhead transmission lines across an area of over 80,000 sq km in the two states.

A bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said a blanket direction for undergrounding high voltage and low voltage power lines needs recalibration. “Climate change may impact the constitutional guarantee of the right to equality. Without a clean environment which is stable and unimpacted by the vagaries of climate change, the right to life is not fully realised. The right to health (which is a part of the right to life under Article 21) is impacted due to factors such as air pollution, shifts in vector-borne diseases, rising temperatures, droughts, shortages in food supplies due to crop failure, storms, and flooding,” the bench said. https://theprint.in/india/climate-change-impacts-constitutional-guarantee-of-right-to-equality-sc/2032024/  (08 April 2024)

CLIMATE CHANGE

Report Climate change slowed Earth’s rotation -An analysis published in Nature on 27 March has predicted that melting ice caps are slowing Earth’s rotation to such an extent that the next leap second — the mechanism used since 1972 to reconcile official time from atomic clocks with that based on Earth’s unstable speed of rotation — will be delayed by three years.

-“Enough ice has melted to move sea level enough that we can actually see the rate of the Earth’s rotation has been affected,” says Duncan Agnew, a geophysicist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California, and author of the study.

-According to his analysis, global warming will push back the need for another leap second from 2026 to 2029. Leap seconds cause so much havoc for computing that scientists have voted to get rid of them, but not until 2035. https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-00932-w  (27 March 2024)

SOUTH ASIA

Nepal Hydropower boom comes at cost of fish Deep Narayan Shah – an aquatic biodiversity researcher who teaches at Tribhuvan University’s environmental science department – worried how a major expansion of hydropower would affect fish. In 2021, Shah worked as part of a team of researchers for the Norwegian consulting company SINTEF to assess the impact of hydropower on aquatic biodiversity in Nepal. At the time the study was conducted Nepal had a generation capacity of 1,200 MW from 86 operational hydropower projects. Of these, the study focussed on 50. By the end of 2023, 142 hydro projects with a generation capacity of 2,603 MW were in operation, and another 244 projects with a generation capacity of 8,757 MW were under construction, according to the Electricity Development Department. None of these projects have engaged with the alarming issues highlighted by the SINTEF report.

– The biggest impact of hydropower dams, the report noted, was in blocking water flow, stating: “None of the 50 HPPs [Hydropower projects] conducted any studies of the Environmental Flows (EFlows) to determine the flow rate to be released to ensure that fish and other aquatic life can survive in the river.” Without such a study, most of the projects simply said that they released 10% water flow, as mandated by the country’s hydropower policy. During the inspection by the SINTEF team, though, they saw that even the 10% was not maintained in the dry season (roughly December to May). During the last three to four months of this period, many hydropower projects released no water at all, with the riverbed drying out for more than 10 kilometres downstream.

– For a number of fish species, migration up and down a river is necessary for breeding, and hydropower projects block their movement. Under Nepal’s laws, such projects have to build fish ladders – structures that will help the fish navigate around the construction. But Shah and his team found that only 12 of the 50 hydropower projects in the study have fish ladders for upstream fish migration. “However, none of the fish ladders were designed for the specific migratory fish in the river, and only one has been monitored to assess if fish are successfully passing through the fish ladder,” the report found. As hydropower projects continue to be built in Nepal, the lessons from the report are not being implemented, says Shah. Part of the reason is that neither the World Bank – which commissioned the report – or the electricity department in Nepal whose work it audited, have made the report public. SINTEF put the report on its website, and in an email reply to The Third Pole said it is not an “official report” of the World Bank. Nonetheless, SINTEF said that they and the World Bank had sent the report to authorities in Nepal and had a virtual discussion. Kamal Panthi, an engineer at the environment section of the department, said that only limited monitoring of aquatic impact was conducted. “We approve reports prepared by the developers and fully rely on them,” he said, “we don’t have the means and mechanism to monitor hydropower projects across the country, nor do we validate environmental assessment reports through field visits.” He added that the finance ministry slashed the budget and “has allocated just seven lakhs [USD 5,000] for monitoring [for the July 16, 2023-July 15, 2024 fiscal year]. How would you monitor projects nationwide with such a minimal budget?” Laws to preserve aquatic biodiversity precede those for other forms of wildlife in Nepal. The country passed its Aquatic Animals Protection Act in 1960, 13 years before the passage of the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act.

– Atle Harby, a senior research scientist at SINTEF who led the hydropower study, highlighted a first step that Nepal could take. “The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation could start by preparing a master plan for hydropower development in the country, seeking a balance in power generation with electricity demand, power sources, and environmental and societal needs”.  https://www.thethirdpole.net/en/energy/nepals-hydropower-boom-comes-at-the-cost-of-its-fish/   (06 April 2024)

THE REST OF THE WORLD

Russia 4000 people rescued after dam bursts, floods near Kazakh border Russia said it has evacuated more than 4,000 people in the Orenburg region near the Kazakhstan border due to flooding after a dam burst. The Orenburg governor’s office said on Apr 6 that “4,208 people, including 1,019 children” had been evacuated and more than 2,500 homes were affected by floods that caused the dam to give way on Apr 5 following torrential rain. The authorities said that the situation was difficult throughout the region and warned of dangerous water levels on the Ural river in the main city of Orenburg.

– Russia also opened a criminal case for “negligence and violation of construction safety rules” over the burst dam, which was built in 2014. The local prosecutor’s office said the dam had been breached due to poor maintenance, according to Russian news agencies. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said the flooding may be Kazakhstan’s largest natural disaster in terms of scale and impact for 80 years. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/4/6/russia-evacuates-4000-people-after-floods-dam-burst-near-kazakh-border  (06 April 2024)

Africa Dark side to solar-powered irrigation pumps Thousands of farmers in Africa and Asia have been using solar power to pump irrigation water — but researchers warn they could also cause an increase in aquifer depletion and carbon emissions. In India, carbon emissions from irrigation pumps for are estimated at 2 percent to 7 percent of annual national total emissions, so replacing electric or diesel pumps with solar ones was thought to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In a 2024 policy forum paper, published in the international journal Science, Soumya Balasubramanya, senior economist at the World Bank and her co-authors argued that installing a solar pump is not guaranteed to lower emissions, as farmers may combine solar and fossil fuel sources. https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewwight/2024/04/05/is-there-a-dark-side-to-solar-powered-irrigation-pumps/  (05 April 2024)

Australia Threats of ‘megadroughts’ New research from the Australian National University suggests that Australia should prepare itself for ‘megadroughts’ lasting over 20 years due to human-induced global heating, reports The Guardian. These megadroughts, defined as prolonged periods of below-average rainfall, have recurred every 150 to 1,000 years in the continent’s history. Dr Georgy Falster, the lead researcher, pointed out that while Australia has not officially recorded a megadrought yet, historical evidence indicates their occurrence. The research mentions the importance of implementing robust water management strategies, supporting drought-prone communities, and introducing environmental protection plans to mitigate the severe impacts of megadroughts. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/science/australia-should-prepare-for-megadroughts-report/articleshow/109060612.cms  (05 April 2024)

USA Toronto’s overlords pondering implementation of a rain tax While this report calls it rain tax, in reality it is tax on hard surface which induces flooding into storm water drains. More the buildings try to have sponge areas to absorb and recharge the rain, the less will be the tax. So this tax is to encourage buildings to have more scope for sponginess! https://torontosun.com/opinion/columnists/kinsella-torontos-overlords-pondering-implementation-of-a-rain-tax  (23 March 2024)

UK Windermere char under threat from raw sewage The Arctic char (or charr), Salvelinus alpinus, has for centuries had a special place in Britain’s largest natural lake, Lake Windermere. Since the ice age, when the glaciers retreated leaving behind a deep cold water lake, the char has lived in its depths. Their existence and their cultural value contributed to Windermere being declared a Unesco world heritage site in 2017. Sadly, however, their future is in doubt. Raw sewage from United Utilities overflows has been flooding into Windermere. If this situation continues, the char habitat may never be the same. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/apr/03/specieswatch-windemere-char-sewage  (03 April 2024)

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

Also see: DRP News Bulletin 01 April 2024 & DRP News Bulletin 25 March 2024  

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