(Feature Image: Sardar Sarovar Dam. Image Source: The Economic Times, Sept. 2022)

The news this week that SSNNL has decided to operate the 1200 MW River Bed Power House and the 250 MW Canal Head Power house to reduce the water level in Dam from 122.28 meters on June 14 to around 115 m before the monsoon inflows start, in anticipation of the above average rainfall anticipated during SW Monsoon 2024 is welcome. One hopes this is sign of SSNNL, Gujarat Government and the Narmada Control Authority have learnt some lessons after the avoidable flood disasters brought by SSP in 2023 and earlier in 2019 and 2020, as revealed by SANDRP’s analysis in each of these years.

One hopes this is not just one-off ad-hoc decisions, but part of a systemic change. This will require an integrated basin level reservoir operation policy including all the major dams of the Narmada Valley and put it out in public domain along with clearly defined Standard Operating Procedure, and names of the responsible officials for each of such major dam in the basin. The Central Water Commission will also need to be held accountable for its flood forecasting including the 7-day advance forecasts.

One hopes there is sufficient time before the monsoon inflows into the SSP reservoir starts to achieve the objective, and the reservoir level should in fact be lowered to Minimum Draw Down Level of 110.63 m. Also, as demanded by Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA), the water level should not be allowed to go above crest level of 122 m considering the state of rehabilitation of the affected people, as pointed out by NBA.

As things stand now, the decision seems a bit too late and should have been taken well in advance of the monsoon as the forecast for the above average monsoon rainfall was known for over a month now. So, the decision is welcome, but with a number of question marks.

Dam to be drained in preparation for above-avg rainfall The Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited (SSNNL) has decided to drain it by generating hydropower in order to prepare for monsoon. With an average inflow of about 25,000 cusecs from Madhya Pradesh, the SSP on June 14 recorded a level of 122.28 meters with 56.35 per cent filling. The 1,200 MW Riverbed Powerhouse (RBPH) of the Sardar Sarovar Dam has also been operational since April, generating an average of 12 million units of electricity along with the Canal Head Power House (CHPH) — worth Rs 3 crores per day– to release a total of 26,000 cusecs from the dam in order to maintain the level. Additionally, the SSNNL is also releasing water into the main canal to meet the demands for irrigation and drinking water.

– SSNNL Chief Engineer RG Kanungo said that the dam level will be brought down to about 115 meters ahead of the monsoon. “Since the monsoon is approaching and the forecast suggests an above-average rainfall, we have to prepare by draining the dams in order to utilise the rainwater that will come in. Therefore, Madhya Pradesh is generating hydropower to drain the two major dams upstream and the inflow received into SSP is being drained out by generating power by operating the six turbines of RBPH,” Kanungo said. The RBPH is releasing 17,529 cusecs of water downstream while the canal head powerhouse (CHPH) is releasing 8,214 cusecs of water into the main canal. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/sardar-sarovar-dam-to-be-drained-in-preparation-for-above-avg-rainfall-9393524/  (15 June 2024)       

HYDRO POWER PROJECTS

West Bengal NGT pulls up authorities for violations in Turga PSP The NGT (Eastern Zone Bench) May 31, 2024 ordered MoEF&CC, the Govt of West Bengal and the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs to file affidavits in the hearing of the case pertaining to violations of conditions in the implementation of Turga Pumped Storage Power Project (TPSP) in the Ajodhaya hills of Purulia, West Bengal. The case was filed by Sushil Murmu from Barelahar hamlet of Ranga-Barelahar Gram Sabha in Baghmundi block of Purulia. Sushil is one of the many young community leaders at the forefront of a strong movement challenging the upcoming 1,000 megawatts TPSP project. He was also one of the applicants in the first writ petition filed in 2018 challenging the very process of granting in-principle approval to the project.

– Our struggle has been going on for almost 10 years but we will not lose hope because we risk losing everything to this project,” said Sushil. Almost 20 Gram Sabhas in the Ajodhya hills region, which will be directly or indirectly affected by this power project, are part of this struggle. The proposed project will not only rob the Adivasis of the forest – their source of livelihood – but also cause harm to two of their major cultural and religious sites, Marang Buru and Sutan Tandi. Marang Buru is their main hill god and Sutan Tandi is the site from where the community’s justice deliverance mechanism operates. The protest of the Adivasi villagers against TPSP has been a long and tedious one, comprising peaceful processions, marches, letters, deputations, awareness building, gathering information to file claims under FRA, filing of a writ petition and, most recently, the appeal in front of NGT.

– In December 2021, a divisional bench of the Calcutta High Court reinstated the in-principle clearance of the proposed TPSP project over an area of 292 hectares. The judgement came after the West Bengal government appealed against the 2018 single bench order that had completely set aside the in-principle clearance for the project on the grounds of false consent created by Ajodhaya Gram Panchayat members. The district magistrate had given a certificate of compliance of FRA in 2017 based on these false and incomplete Gram Panchayat meetings with only 21 members, while the Ajodhya Panchayat itself has 10,000 voters.

– Since September 2023, the Gram Sabhas have formed voluntary groups for patrolling the forests to alert if project-related work begins in the area. “The villagers have been showing tremendous courage by resisting the project for so long and I hope the state government will take the corrective measures to record the forest rights,” said Sankar Prasad Pani, the advocate who argued for the recent case in NGT. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/test/news/reason-to-cheer-ngt-pulls-up-authorities-for-violations-in-tpsp-project-opposed-by-adivasis-of-purulia-s-ajodhya-hills-96615  (10 June 2024)

Report Global HEP investment lagging According to International Hydropower Association’s World 2023 Hydropower outlook report, Global Hydropower capacity grew by 13.5 GW to reach 1412 GW in 2023, Pump storage capacity grew by6.5 GW to reach 182 GW. The report mentions the downward trend in hydropower capacity addition trend. China, US, Russia, Canada and Brazil were the top five countries in adding additional capacity in 2023. https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/renewable/global-hydropower-capacity-reaches-1412gw-in-2023-but-investment-lagging/110923974  (12 June 2024)

DAMS

Kaleshwaram Project Medigadda issues persist with lifting of 2 gates The Interim works taken up on the Medigadda barrage are nearing completion. Only two of eight gates in the seventh block of the project are yet to be lifted. The project authorities are hopeful of lifting the gates open without causing any damage to the piers. One of the eight gates in the seventh block was dismantled by cutting. Works on the impacted structure of the barrages were being carried out without any break as the barrage continued receive inflows.

– Initial plans to put up a coffer dam to facilitate lifting of water from Medigadda barrage were given up. Water can be routed to the pump house from the natural flow without the need of a weir, said the officials. The need for the ring bund to divert water to the pump house would arise only after the monsoon season as the flood level in the river recedes to the normal level. Major part of the interim exercise including the grouting works would be completed in four days. The Irrigation department decided to complete the interim works latest by June 15. But they may continue for another one week unless the catchment received heavy rains bringing heavy flood. The investigations being carried out by the Central Soil and Materials Research Station (CSMRS), Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS) and Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI) will continue for the next five weeks. All the three organisations have been carrying out their studies simultaneously. https://telanganatoday.com/interim-works-on-medigadda-nearing-completion-but-issues-persist-with-lifting-of-two-gates  (14 June 2024)

‘Medigadda site KCR’s brainchild’ A team of engineering experts has told Justice PC Ghose commission of inquiry on Medigadda that their report was ignored by KCR. The committee was constituted by the BRS govt to suggest the location for Kaleshwaram project in 2015. The committee members led by Anantaramulu said the barrage proposal at Medigadda was suggested by KCR himself and added that they did not suggest Medigadda. They also said they suggested Tummidihatti site for taking up the Kaleshwaram project, but KCR did not approve their report. During an informal chat with reporters, Justice Ghose said the engineers submitted the copy of their report and deposed before the commission. The Ghose commission is also looking into sub-contractors, who had done works on behalf of the main contractors of three barrages. He said he had asked the agencies to submit their list of sub-contractors to the commission. “If they do not submit the list of sub-contractors, the commission will collect the information from the central agencies and registrar of companies,” the former Supreme Court judge said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/kcrs-role-in-medigadda-barrage-proposal/articleshowprint/111028928.cms  (16 June 2024)

Probe to follow money trail The judicial commission inquiring into alleged irregularities in planning, construction and maintenance of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages of the Kaleshwaram irrigation project, will investigate the sub-contracts given to various companies by the agencies which were awarded the contracts to build the barrages. This was revealed by Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose heading the commission on Saturday. The agencies had sub-contracted the work to about 10 to 15 companies. Just who did what can be found when the payments made by the agencies are checked, Justice Ghose said during an informal chat with mediapersons. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/telangana/judicial-probe-into-kaleshwaram-to-follow-money-trail-to-sub-contractors-899181  (15 June 2024)

Sardar Sarovar Project The 15th of June marked the beginning of an indefinite fast by Medha Patkar, for justice in the Narmada valley. The demands from this fast include, rehabilitation of all the remaining Project Affected as per the laws, policies, and Supreme Court orders. The women and men in the present struggle are also asserting their right to, a fair market value compensation to all those who endured losses in the 2023 man-made devastation along the Narmada, the appointment of Rehabilitation officers and Hon. Members of grievance Redressal Authority, Madhya Pradesh, in all the vacant posts, and till all these tasks are not completed, maintaining the Sardar Sarovar water level at 122 metres (crest level), keeping the 17 metres gates open.

NBA PR June 16 2024

Mullaperiyar Dam The Kerala State has demanded a safety review of the Mullaperiyar dam before a Supreme Court-appointed supervisory committee gives permission to repair it. According to sources, the State put forth the demand at a meeting comprising representatives of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and the Central Water Commission here on Thursday evening. However, the Tamil Nadu members said that the safety review should be conducted only after strengthening the baby dam. Earlier in the day, the committee visited the Mullaperiyar dam, following a directive of the apex court.  https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kerala-demands-safety-review-of-mullaperiyar-dam/article68286149.ece  (13 June 2024)

Maharashtra No rise in dam stock; sharp rainfall eludes catchments The catchment areas of the four dams supplying water to Pune have recorded below-par rainfall so far despite heavy showers in the city till Jun 9. While areas like Shivajinagar and Lohegaon were pounded with over 100mm rainfall in a 24-hour period till Sunday (June 09) morning, the catchment areas received just two-digit rainfall. In Khadakwasla, 59mm of rainfall was recorded till Sunday (June 09) morning, followed by Temghar (52mm), Varasgaon (41mm) and Panshet (39mm).

Explaining the dichotomy between rainfall in the city areas and the catchments, an irrigation department official said, “The reservoirs are located in the ghats (mountain ranges), far from the city areas. As they did not receive heavy rain spells, as recorded in the Pune city, there was hardly any improvement in their water stock.”

The official said the dam stock was likely to pick up after at least 200mm rainfall in the catchment. “When heavy rainfall occurs, the soil gets saturated first. The excess water then flows into streams and tributaries that feed the dams. Consistent heavy spells over 3-4 days are required to saturate the soil and allow sufficient runoff,” the official said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/no-rise-in-dam-stock-sharp-rainfall-eludes-catchments/articleshowprint/110887459.cms?val=3728 (11 Jun 2024)

Tamil Nadu Mettur dam gates not opened on June 12 for 1st time in 5 yrs  For the first time since 2020, the sluices of the Stanley Reservoir in Mettur was not reopened on the designated date of June 12 for cultivation of kuruvai (short-term crop) in the Cauvery Delta region due to non-availability of water. Tamil Nadu says it could not release water from Mettur dam as Karnataka hasn’t adhered to the monthly schedule of release of water to the state. Apart from the 90 tmcft due in 2023, Karnataka hasn’t released 24 tmcft water due in June 2024. Upset over the government’s move, hundreds of farmers marched from the Cauvery Delta region to Mettur Dam on Wednesday (June 12) demanding exerting pressure on Karnataka to release water to Tamil Nadu.

The non-release of water has caused concern among farmers in the fertile Cauvery Delta, rice bowl of Tamil Nadu, as they are worried about losing the crop for the second time in a row. Last year too, a majority of the farmers either lost the short-term crop or spent additional financial resources to save kuruvai due to non-availability of adequate water in the reservoir, which is their lifeline. The dam, from where water is discharged usually till December, was closed on October 9, adding to the woes of the farmers. Kuruvai is cultivated in an area of 5 lakh acres of which over 3 lakh acres are entirely dependent on Cauvery while cultivation in the remaining 2 lakh acres are done using water from borewells. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/tamil-nadu/mettur-dam-gates-not-opened-on-june-12-for-the-first-time-in-five-years-3063885  (12 June 2024)

URBAN RIVERS

SANDRP Blog Chasing Streams, Springs of Asan River in Dehradun Despite being an important tributary to the Yamuna River in Shivalik hills of Dehradun, the Asan appears among the least explored and documented rivers. While, most of the people believe and even available online maps depict Chandrabani temple as origin place of the Asan, a field visit to track the river course reveals some interesting information. This part one of photo blog documents the river course in its founding catchment sharing pictures and our field observations about the river’s origin place, past history and present situation. https://sandrp.in/2024/06/11/photo-blog-chasing-streams-springs-of-asan-river-in-dehradun/  (11 June 2024)

Pune Manasi Karandikar from the oikos Ecological Services explains how the changes in land use affect the river ecosystem. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVEuDVPiym4 (13 Jun 2024)

Mula-Mutha; Pune MPCB notice to Bharat Forge over effluent flowing into river The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued a warning notice to forging multinational company Bharat Forge Limited over “non-compliance” of consent terms in relation to a complaint about discharge of “substandard effluent containing oil” in the Mula-Mutha river in Mundhwa. The notice, issued on April 29, gave a week-long period to the firm to take corrective measures.

Mundhwa resident Abhijit Gaikwad had mailed a complaint to the MPCB on March 19 this year, stating that in Survey No. 72/76 of the Mundhwa industrial area, Bharat Forge was releasing black polluted water mixed with foul-smelling oil directly into the Mula-Mutha river. On April 24, an MPCB team visited the location for an on-site survey to understand the reasoning behind the complaint.

The notice further asks the company to clean the storm water drain and nullah located near the railway bridge under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) activity and submit the report to them within a week from April 29. The notice stated that any repetition of non-compliance would be viewed seriously and accordingly, suitable legal action would be taken against the company. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/mpcb-notice-to-bharat-forge-over-effluent-flowing-into-river/articleshow/109931402.cms  (08 May 2024)

Kukrail; Lucknow 279 more illegal buildings razed in Akbarnagar As part of the Kukrail river beautification and rejuvenation project, 279 illegal constructions in Akbarnagar were demolished on Thursday (June 13), raising the total to 1,149. In a rehabilitation effort, about 1,800 Pradhan Mantri A was Yojna (PMAY) houses were allotted to displaced families. In all, 14 excavators, 12 bulldozers and 15 water tankers with sprinklers have been used in carrying out the demolition drive. Besides, over 30 trucks of the Lucknow Development Authority and the Lucknow Municipal Corporation have been deployed to assist people in relocating their household items. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/279-more-illegal-buildings-razed-in-akbarnagar/articleshow/111052611.cms  (17 June 2024) A major demolition drive is currently underway in the Kukrail riverbed area of Lucknow as part of an extensive effort to rejuvenate the Kukrail River and develop the area similar to the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. The drone footage of the demolition drive shows bulldozers dismantling illegal constructions along the riverbed. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/massive-demolition-drive-underway-in-lucknows-kukrail-riverbed-video-101718453445346.html  (15 June 2024)

According to local folklore, the Kukrail river originated over 200 years ago, with its first documented mention in a 1904 gazetteer. “This 28-km long river, fed by groundwater, has its origin in a well near Dasaur Baba Pond in Asti village. It used to flow into the Gomti near Bibiyapur/Martinpurwa, covering a basin area of about 192 square km,” says a professor at Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, who is advising the govt on the Kukrail project.

The river travels 6km from Asti village to Kukrail forest, which spans 5,113 acres and has been a reserved forest since 1954. After passing through the forest, it enters the trans-Gomti area. Locals believed the Kukrail water was pure and that bathing in the well at Dasaur Baba Pond could cure dog bite poison.

During heavy rain, the Kukrail river can discharge over 350 MLD water. In 1960, the water level at Gaughat reached 113.2 metres, leading to the construction of embankments along the Gomti and Kukrail river in 1962 to reduce waterlogging risks. Before these embankments, the Kukrail merged with the Gomti downstream of the barrage, but this area was isolated after 1962. The land between the Kukrail and Gomti rivers, called the Municipal Sled Farm, was given to the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) for development in 1980.

The areas covering Akbarnagar I and II, where the demolition drive is being carried out, were part of Kukrail river’s floodplain, according to historical maps and official documents from 1904 and 1920, says a Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) official. In 1984, a govt survey had identified 283 unauthorised constructions in the area, but it rose to over 1,200 by 2023. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/revival-of-kukrail-river-in-lucknow-by-yogi-adityanath-government/articleshow/110923538.cms  (12 June 2024)

Amid an unprecedented eviction drive, the Kukrail riverbed is being freed of encroachments. Almost half of the Akbar Nagar slum is already gone, and the rest is likely to be history soon, paving way for a much-needed revival of the river. Unfortunately, this has come at the cost people being displaced and losing livelihood. As hundreds of families move out to new settlements, we look into the two aspects of the story – efforts to reclaim a river that turned into a nullah and people’s struggle to reboot their lives. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/lucknow-news/a-river-s-revival-amidst-saga-of-tears-101718309428012.html  (14 June 2024)

Adyar; Chennai Seven months after the first batch of 250 families were resettled from Kanu Nagar along Adyar river in Ramapuram as part of a restoration project under the Chennai Rivers Restoration Trust (CRRT), the remaining 205 families were evicted on Friday (June 14). The resettlement drive was paused in October, owing to various reasons, including monsoon and the second batch of families’ preference that they be shifted to tiled houses instead of the houses that they were originally allotted under a different scheme in Perumbakkam. The originally allotted houses lacked tiled floors but had a slightly more spacious portico. https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2024/Jun/15/adyar-restoration-205-more-families-evicted  (15 June 2024)

Musi; Hyderabad Link Road along Musi to Be Ready by August. A link road along the Musi river connecting Amberpet with Uppal as well as to Ramanthapur is likely to be made available to people by August. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/telangana/hyderabad-link-road-along-musi-to-be-ready-by-august-898342  (11 June 2024)

RIVERS

Yettinahole Project Forest land sacrifice for water project: Bad idea The state government announced the diversion of 500 acres of forest land for the Yettinahole drinking water project on June 13, drawing flak from ecologists, wildlife conservationists, and citizens who see the move as a green light for further destruction of the Western Ghats. https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/forest-land-sacrifice-for-water-project-bad-idea/articleshow/111006356.cms  (15 June 2024)

GANGA Study Record low snow risk to over 600 mn in Ganga basin “Snow melt contributes to 10.3% in the Ganga river basin, while glacier melt contributes 3.1%, so comparatively, the contribution from snow is quite significant,” said Sher Muhammad, lead author of HKH snow update 2024. “This lower snow this year may affect water availability if there is less rainfall in the early season, as the snowmelt contribution primarily contributes early in the summer season.”

-For the Ganga, it is a year with lowest snow persistence, or the time snow remains on the ground, since 2003 at 17% below normal, the fresh research found. There were significant fluctuations in snow persistence between 2003 and 2024 during the snow accumulation season between November and April, the ICIMOD report released on June 15 said.

-In the Gangetic basin, there has been significant fluctuations in snow persistence in the past 22 years according to the update. Prior to 2024, 2018 had the lowest snow persistence at 15.2% below normal, while the highest snow persistence of 25.6% above normal was recorded in 2015. The current year has shown the lowest snow persistence, with a value of 17% below normal. The river basin is home to more than 600 million Indians.

-In the Brahmaputra river basin, 2021 saw the lowest seasonal snow persistence, dropping well below average at 15.5%. The highest recorded snow persistence occurred in 2019, reaching 27.1% above normal. This year, the current snow persistence is notably below normal at 14.6%. In the Indus river basin, there was a significant decrease in snow persistence, falling 23.3% below normal with some positive patterns on the southern sides, mostly in the lower altitudes.

– The other rivers originating in the HKH are also facing an unprecedented crisis in recent years. The Amu Darya river basin this year recorded the lowest snow persistence at 28.2% below normal. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/lowest-snow-cover-year-for-ganga-basin-101718563716298.html  (17 June 2024)

Millions of people dependent on Himalayan snowmelt for water face a “very serious” risk of shortages this year after one of the lowest rates of snowfall, scientists warned on June 17 2024. Said report author Sher Muhammad, from ICIMOD: “Lower accumulation of snow and fluctuating levels of snow pose a very serious increased risk of water shortages, particularly this year.” The report measured “snow persistence”—the time snow remains on the ground. “This year’s snow persistence (18.5 percent below normal) is the second-lowest in the past 22 years, narrowly trailing the record low of 19 percent set in 2018,” Muhammad said. The report warned that “observations and projections indicate significant changes in the timing and intensity of stream flows”, with snow a key part.

– The Ganges river basin, which flows through India, had the “lowest snow persistence” that ICIMOD has recorded, 17 percent below average, worse than the 15 percent in 2018. The Indus river basin was down 23 percent below normal levels, while the Brahmaputra river basin, which ends in Bangladesh, had snow persistence “notably below normal” at 15 percent. https://phys.org/news/2024-06-himalayas-threatens.html  (17 June 2024)

An earthquake changed the course of the Ganges: Could it happen again? A major earthquake 2,500 years ago caused Ganges, one of the largest rivers on Earth to abruptly change course, according to a new study (The study: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-47786-4). The previously undocumented quake rerouted the main channel of the Ganges River in what is now densely populated Bangladesh, which remains vulnerable to big quakes. The study was published in the journal Nature Communications. Scientists have documented many river-course changes, called avulsions, including some in response to earthquakes. However, “I don’t think we have ever seen such a big one anywhere,” said study co-author Michael Steckler, a geophysicist at Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, which is part of the Columbia Climate School.

– Lead author Liz Chamberlain, an assistant professor at the Netherlands’ Wageningen University, said, “It was not previously confirmed that earthquakes could drive avulsion in deltas, especially for an immense river like the Ganges.”

– Ganga, Brahmaputra and Meghna, together at the delta, form the world’s second-largest river system as measured by discharge. (The Amazon is first.) A river over the years can change path in the floodplain or delta with accumulation of silt in the riverbed. But this does not generally happen all at once—it may take successive floods over years or decades. An earthquake-related avulsion, on the other hand, can occur more or less instantaneously, said Steckler.

– In satellite imagery, the authors of the new study spotted what they say was probably the former main channel of the river, some 100 kilometers south of the Bangladeshi capital of Dhaka. This is a low-lying area about 1.5 kilometers wide that can be found intermittently for some 100 kilometers more or less parallel to the current river course. Chamberlain and other researchers were exploring this area in 2018 when they came across a freshly dug excavation for a pond that had not yet been filled with water. On one flank, they spotted distinct vertical dikes of light-colored sand cutting up through horizontal layers of mud. This is a well-known feature created by earthquakes: In such watery areas, sustained shaking can pressurize buried layers of sand and inject them upward through overlying mud. The result: literal sand volcanoes, which can erupt at the surface. Called seismites, here, they were 30 or 40 centimeters wide, cutting up through 3 or 4 meters of mud. Further investigation showed the seismites were oriented in a systematic pattern, suggesting they were all created at the same time. Chemical analyses of sand grains and particles of mud showed that the eruptions and the abandonment and infilling of the channel both took place about 2,500 years ago. Furthermore, there was a similar site some 85 kilometers downstream in the old channel that had filled in with mud at the same time. The authors’ conclusion: This was a big, sudden avulsion triggered by an earthquake, estimated to be magnitude 7 or 8.

– A 2016 study led by Steckler shows that these zones are now building stress, and could produce earthquakes comparable to the one 2,500 years ago. The last one of this size occurred in 1762, producing a deadly tsunami that traveled up the river to Dhaka. Another may have occurred around 1140 CE. https://phys.org/news/2024-06-earthquake-ganges.html  (17 June 2024)

MoJS Portal to ecologically monitor Ganga The Environmental flows (E-flows) Monitoring System has been developed by the NMCG and was launched in the presence of Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil on Friday (June 14). Along with real-time analysis of the water quality of the Ganga, Yamuna, and their tributaries, it also allows monitoring of the Namami Gange programme activities at the central level. This includes monitoring the performance of STPs, and ensuring that they operate at their rated capacity. River water quality is also monitored at various locations.

Mr. Paatil, who took charge of the Ministry this week, said that he would focus on completing the ongoing projects under the Namami Gange Mission, including those involving the Ganga and its tributaries, within the stipulated time frame. In 2018, the Centre mandated minimum e-flow for various stretches of the Ganga river to be maintained year-round. This was after concerns were raised by several environmentalist groups that dams along various stretches of the river were impeding its flow and destroying its ecology. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/jal-shakti-ministry-launches-portal-to-ecologically-monitor-the-ganga/article68294107.ece  (16 June 2024)

The E-flow Monitoring System is an integral component of the PRAYAG Portal, a real-time monitoring centre for the planning and monitoring of projects, river water quality, and other crucial parameters. This portal encompasses online dashboards such as the Ganga Tarang Portal, Project Management Tool Dashboard and the Ganga Districts Performance Monitoring System. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2025113  (13 June 2024)

Ballia गंगा दिशा बदलने वाली योजना की दशा बिगड़ी Condition of the Ganga project deteriorated in Ballia, UP. CM’s Rs 31 Cr project to divert the flow of Ganga by dredging 13.6 km of river after the massive 2019 floods remains unimplemented.

– In 2020 work started dredging 3 km stretch, but floods came before completion, and the dredged matter got deposited back into the river. https://www.livehindustan.com/uttar-pradesh/story-condition-of-the-project-that-was-changing-the-direction-of-ganga-in-ballia-up-has-deteriorated-yogi-s-important-project-is-eclipsed-10225089.html  (14 June 2024)

Varanasi The water level of the Ganga River in Varanasi has reached an all-time low due to the intense heat. The river’s width, which usually measures around 70 to 80 meters in June, has now been reduced to a mere 30 to 35 meters. As a result of the declining water levels, the Ganga has receded from the ghats, revealing broken boats, scattered garbage and shattered boulders along its banks. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/varanasi/heatwave-ganga-water-levels-fall-to-historic-lows-in-varanasi-amid-scorching-heat/articleshow/111027038.cms  (16 June 2024)

YAMUNA Delhi SC upholds demolition of temple on floodplains The Supreme Court on Friday (June 14) upheld an order for the demolition of a Pracheen Shiv Mandir situated at Geeta Colony close to the Yamuna floodplains. A vacation bench of Justice Sanjay Kumar and Justice Augustine George Masih refused to interfere with the Delhi High Court order. “Where is the proof of Pracheen Temple to begin with? Ancient temples were built with rocks and not with cement and painted,” the bench said.

The High court had said the land in dispute is meant for larger public interest and the petitioner society cannot claim any vested rights to continue to occupy and use it. The court had said the land falls under the Zonal Development Plan for Zone-‘O’ as approved by the Ministry of Urban Development. The High Court had said the petitioner society has miserably failed to show any documents with regard to its title, right or interest over the land and there is no proof of the temple having any historical significance. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/sc-upholds-demolition-of-pracheen-shiv-mandir-on-yamuna-floodplains-in-delhi-101718362139711.html  (14 June 2024)

The Yamuna has dried up along several stretches in Delhi, leaving bone-dry banks. https://news.abplive.com/news/india/heatwave-in-india-death-toll-yamuna-dry-north-india-monsoon-1696114  (17 June 2024)

Minister claims about some pilot cut technique that will help deal with Yamuna floods this time. Not clear what he means by that. He also says the ITO barrage gates have been maintained/ repaired.

Fine agency over sewage flow into stormwater drain The NGT has directed Delhi Pollution Control Committee to identify the agency which damaged the sewer line leading to discharge of sewage into a stormwater drain passing through Malviya Nagar and Greater Kailash. The tribunal observed that sewage water continued to flow in the stormwater drain, creating a health hazard for more than three years without any action by the authorities. It also ordered DPCC to impose an environmental compensation charge on the violator. Activist Sunil Kumar Aledia had sent a complaint to NGT last year to raise the grievance about discharge of sewage in stormwater drain passing through Malviya Nagar assembly constituency to Greater Kailash assembly constituency by joining sewer line to the stormwater drain. The plea said this was damaging the environment and causing health hazards. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/ngt-directs-dpcc-to-fine-agency-over-sewage-flow-into-stormwater-drain/articleshow/110020998.cms  (11 May 2024)

Irrigation dept to manage all 22 major drains All major 22 drains in the city will be handed over to the Irrigation and Flood Control Department (I&FC) of Delhi govt by the end of May for better maintenance and operation, a Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) official aware of the matter said. In an order issued by Delhi’s urban development department on April 29, a copy of which TOI has seen, it was stated that by May 31, ‘all concerned departments will hand over the 22 open drains to the I&FC department’.

The move has come in the wake of Delhi High Court’s directions on April 8 to Delhi govt to assign the management of all open drains in the city to one agency to streamline drainage management, mitigate flooding and improve water in the Yamuna. The court has directed completion of desilting at 21 drains by Dec 31, 2024, and de-silting of Najafgarh drain by June 2025. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/irrigation-dept-to-manage-all-22-major-drains-in-city/articleshow/109866199.cms  (06 May 2024)

Ghaziabad Hindon pollution: GMC hands list to NGT In Dec last year, the civic corporation submitted a 485-page report to the tribunal stating that 55 drains in seven districts flow into the river, carrying with them 944 MLD of sewage. Of this, 713 MLD were treated by 16 STPs but 231 MLD of untreated sewage still was discharged into the river.

-The GMC’s 2023 report said there are 357 industries along the banks of the Hindon, of which 33 non-conforming and polluting units have been shut down. It said environmental compensation costs to the tune of Rs 76.78 crore had been imposed on 13 defaulting units across the seven districts, of which only Rs 96.74 lakh had been recovered. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ghaziabad/gmc-hands-list-to-ngt-to-check-discharge-of-effluents-into-hindon/articleshow/110314280.cms  (22 May 2024)

Noida 176 served notices for construction on floodplains Among the 350 notices issued, 176 were issued to residents of Haibatpur village for illegal construction in the Hindon floodplains. The remaining notices were sent to residents of Sunpura village. Officials added that they had previously issued public notices cautioning people against purchasing plots or flats in these illegal buildings, as they lack the necessary approvals.

-According to officials, the notices were issued as per standard procedure under Section 10 of the UP Industrial Area Development Act by work circle 1 and 2 of the Authority’s project department. If the violators fail to remove the illegal constructions themselves, the Authority will take action to remove them and recover the associated costs from the violators, officials said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/350-served-notices-for-construction-on-govt-land-hindon-floodplains/articleshow/110314459.cms  (22 May 2024)

Himachal Pradesh Paonta Sahib seeks to turn kids into ‘Yamuna Warriors’ In a bid to address the severe environmental degradation of the Yamuna, the Paonta Sahib forest division of the state Forest Department has launched an initiative titled “Yamuna Hamari Dharohar”. Aimed at spreading awareness about environmental conservation among schoolchildren, the program seeks to foster a sense of responsibility towards river and environmental conservation. In October 2022, Yamuna Van Vihar was established as a recreational hub for the town. This was followed by the inauguration of the Yamuna Riverfront Nature Park in February this year, the town’s first riverfront spot. The initiative aims to inspire these youngsters to become ‘Yamuna Warriors’, committed to protecting the river and the environment. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/paonta-sahib-seeks-to-turn-kids-into-yamuna-warriors-622667  (19 May 2024)

BIODIVERSITY IN RIVERS

Assam Carcass of Gangetic river dolphin found in Kulsi river  A carcass of an endangered Gangetic river dolphin was found in Kulsi river under Kamrup district on Wednesday (June 12) morning. This marks the sixth death of this Schedule 1 species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, within the West Kamrup Wildlife Division over the past five years. There is a growing demand for more surveys and enhanced conservation measures for the habitats of these river dolphins, which attract numerous international tourists to the Kulsi River annually.

In the Kamrup West division, three dolphins died in 2021-22 in the riverine range, Nagarbera. In 2022-23, two more deaths in the Kulsi range sparked concern. “Flow diversion of the river, due to manmade causes or natural reasons, has affected the Kukurmara hotspot of river dolphin. From Kukurmara main channel of the river, the flow has been diverted to another connected river channel through Chhaygaon,” explained IUCN-recognised dolphin expert Abdul Wakid. He also mentioned that multiple bridge constructions over the years have hampered the river flow of Kulsi. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/carcass-of-gangetic-river-dolphin-found-in-kulsi-river/articleshow/110951628.cms  (13 June 2024)

Arunachal Pradesh Efforts to protect rare and endemic species Some rare species, like the Tibetan Brimstone butterfly, was sighted after over 70 years in the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary only once, in August 2013. When asked if there was any factor that forced the Tibetan Brimstone to migrate out of the place, Tam said: “Faunal sightings in the wild require hard work and dedication. Also, sightings of rare animals in the wild require some luck, too. The Tibetan Brimstone butterfly was sighted by two scientists – Sanjay Sodhi and Purnendu Roy – in August 2013. It was sighted after 74 years, and it was the first record in India and the second in the world.”

-“Environmental factors, such as climate change, and manmade problems, such as causing habitat loss, excessive use of pesticide, etc, can have a severe impact on the population of butterflies in the wild. More research work is required to understand the behaviour of the Tibetan Brimstone butterfly from the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary and other places of Arunachal,” Tam informed. https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2024/06/10/efforts-to-protect-rare-and-endemic-species/  (10 June 2024)

FISH, FISHERIES, FISHERFOLKS

Kerala HC constitutes expert panel to study fish kill, pollution of Periyar The court issued the order when a batch of writ petitions filed by activist K.S.R. Menon, Green Action Force, and others came up for hearing. The counsel for Green Action Force, A.X. Varghese, submitted that fish kill had occurred several times in the past. But the PCB had not taken steps to prevent them. He submitted that most industries located on the banks of the Periyar did not have proper effluent treatment plants. In fact, the river was the main source of drinking water for people in Kochi and its suburbs. The PCB had also not initiated any prosecution measures against companies that discharged untreated effluents into the river.

-A continuous real-time monitoring of the water quality at the Pathalam regulator and its downstream areas where fish kill incidents are a regular phenomenon has been mooted. An analysis by the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos) had recommended a real-time monitoring and regular sampling system on the 3-km Eloor-Edayar stretch of the river. The allegations that industrial units were discharging waste water through illegal channels and tunnels had to be inquired in a scientific manner, using modern techniques and equipment like ground penetrating radars. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Kochi/kerala-high-court-constitutes-expert-panel-to-study-fish-kill-pollution-of-periyar/article68274081.ece (10 Jun 2024)

Report This fish can stay alive in mud for months without water -The suckermouth catfish, a dweller of tropical freshwater environments, is known for its resilience and adaptability, particularly its ability to survive in conditions that would be inhospitable to other fish.

-Native to the rivers and tributaries of South America, the suckermouth catfish, or pleco, is equipped with specialized organs that enable it to breathe air. This adaptation is crucial during the dry season when water levels can drop significantly, leaving aquatic habitats parched. When faced with such challenging conditions, the pleco can enter a state of dormancy, similar to hibernation, which allows it to survive for extended periods without water.

-The pleco’s ability to endure out of water is facilitated by its accessory breathing organ, akin to a gill cavity, which permits the fish to extract oxygen from the air. This organ is a marvel of evolutionary biology, allowing the pleco to survive up to 30 hours on land as long as its skin remains moist. The fish achieves this by burrowing into the mud, creating a protective cocoon that preserves moisture and allows for air exchange.

-Researchers have noted that while remarkable, this capability is not unique to the pleco; the African lungfish is another species known to survive out of water for extended periods, thanks to similar physiological adaptations.

-The pleco’s remarkable ability to survive without water has garnered attention not only for its biological interest but also for its implications in understanding how species can adapt to changing environments. As climate change continues to alter ecosystems worldwide, the pleco’s survival mechanism may offer insights into how other species might cope with increasingly extreme conditions.

-While the pleco’s capacity to live in a zombie-like state without water is certainly impressive, it also raises questions about the impact of such species on native ecosystems. As humans continue to influence natural habitats, the spread of resilient species like the pleco could have unforeseen consequences on biodiversity and ecological balance. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/explained-how-this-fish-can-stay-alive-in-mud-for-months-without-water/articleshowprint/110877969.cms  (10 June 2024)

SAND MINING

SANDRP Blog GRSPN: Fight Collectively, Consistently to stop the menace of illegal sand mining The Bombay High Court and NGT have given several directions to the Mines, Captain of Ports, Police and Transport department to stop illegal sand mining activity but the departments simply refused to implement these orders. It is very difficult to implement court orders and directions in such circumstances when the entire administration is complicit. It is only because the NGT stayed the new environmental clearances granted for sand mining (on a petition filed by the GRSPN) that the government found its hands finally tied. https://sandrp.in/2024/06/15/secret-of-goa-river-networks-success-fight-collectively-consistently-to-stop-the-menace-of-illegal-sand-mining/  (15 June 2024)

Bihar ASI hit by tractor ferrying illegally mined sand, badly hurt An assistant sub-inspector (ASI) was severely injured when the driver of an illegal sand-laden tractor ran the vehicle over him near Laund village under Sirdalla police station in Nawada district on Sunday (June 16) morning. The incident occurred despite a complete prohibition on sand mining in the state from June 15 to October 15, highlighting the audacity of the sand mafia in defying the ban.

Ranjit Ram, the station house officer (SHO) of Sirdalla police station, said ASI Sanjit Kumar was sent to investigate a tip-off about a tractor carrying sand passing through Laund village market. “Upon spotting the tractor, the ASI attempted to stop it, but the driver deliberately ran the vehicle over him, causing serious injuries,” the SHO added.

While the tractor driver managed to flee, the wounded ASI was immediately taken to Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Hospital at Pawapuri for treatment. The incident has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the ban on sand mining and the brazen disregard for the law displayed by the sand mafia in the region. Sand mining has become a significant issue in Bihar, with recent attacks on police officers highlighting the severity of the problem. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/bihar-asi-hit-by-tractor-ferrying-illegally-mined-sand-badly-hurt/articleshow/111048697.cms  (17 June 2024)

Assam Construction, unregulated mining threats to dolphin sanctuary The lifeless body of an endangered Gangetic river dolphin has been discovered in Kulsi River, located in Kamrup district, on Wednesday (June 12) morning, marking the sixth death of this Schedule 1 species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, within the West Kamrup Wildlife Division over the past five years. In the Kamrup West division, three dolphins died in 2021-22 in the riverine range, Nagarbera. In 2022-23, further two deaths in Kulsi range have sparked concern.

Residents and conservationists near Kukurmara alleged that uncontrolled sand extraction and bridge construction on the Kulsi River, a vital habitat of river dolphin and Brahmaputra tributary, are causing habitat destruction and deadly collisions with concrete structures. “Since it was a dolphin infant, which are usually playful, perhaps it was stuck in concrete structure of the under-construction railway bridge as water level of the Kulsi river has receded in last few days,” speculated Prasanna Kalita, a local conservation activist. He also noted the possibility of industrial pollution as the cause of death, alleging that nearby plants might be discharging toxic materials into the river.

There is growing demand for more surveys and enhanced conservation measures for the habitats of these river dolphins, which attract numerous international tourists to the Kulsi River annually. “Flow diversion of the river, due to manmade causes or natural reasons, has affected the Kukurmara hotspot of river dolphin. From Kukurmara main channel of the river, the flow has been diverted to another connected river channel through Chhaygaon,” explained IUCN-recognized dolphin expert Abdul Wakid. He also mentioned that multiple bridge constructions over the years have hampered the river flow of Kulsi.  https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/kulsi-river-dolphins-face-peril-construction-unregulated-sand-mining-threats-to-dolphin-sanctuary/articleshow/110947213.cms  (12 June 2024)

Indiscriminate sand mining, together with mounting industrial and anthropogenic pressure, has almost irreversibly altered a thriving Gangetic river dolphin habitat in the Kulsi River. Once a popular destination for viewing the magnificent aquatic animal, the sightings have become rare nowadays.

Such is the damaging extent of sand extraction from the riverbed at Kulsi Chowk Point, where the river bifurcates into two channels, that the water flow to the Kukurmara channel has almost stopped. “This has dealt a death blow to this once-thriving dolphin habitat along the Kukurmara stretch. Mechanised sand mining might have come down of late, but overall mining still remains largely unregulated. Sluice gates on the Batha/Jagaliya river—one of the major flow sources to Kulsi—have caused restrictions in water flow to Kulsi,” Rajesh Dutta Baruah, a conservationist, said.

A number of unscientifically constructed bridges, too, have altered the water flow regime of Kulsi, fragmenting the dolphin habitat and leaving the animals in almost stranded condition, especially during the winter. All this has also impacted the availability of fish, which constitutes the river dolphin’s major diet. “Livelihoods have been hit as the fish population in Kulsi has dwindled drastically in recent years. This is a fallout of unrestrained mining, pollution from untreated industrial effluents, and erosion of the river’s links with wetlands,” Debajit Choudhury, a local resident who has been trying to generate awareness on the issues, said. He said that time is running out fast for Kulsi, and only a mass movement can impel government action. https://assamtribune.com/assam/sand-mining-anthropogenic-activities-altered-kulsis-river-dolphin-habitat-1540352  (16 June 2024)

Meghalaya Illegal sand mining from Manda river leads to soil erosion threat Sand mining from the Manda river, which has been taking place for close to two months now, has left at least seven villages under both Assam and Meghalaya in a precarious situation as erosion has rapidly turned many nearby areas dangerous for habitation. The matter came to light following complaints by residents of the villages of Nokmakundi, Kakalipara, and Kasumari, among others, who provided written complaints to the Deputy Commissioner of Goalpara, Assam, not once but twice, regarding the situation after sand mining from the middle of the river left their areas prone to river erosion.

The case closely follows a recent visit by Assam Minister Piyush Hazarika, who, upon visiting flood-prone areas of Goalpara on June 7, directed officials to take action against soil erosion and ensure protection work was begun along many areas of Dudhnoi in Assam. District officials confirmed that mining permission had been provided for sand mining after a No Objection Certificate (NOC) was received from some individuals, with the go-ahead from the Geological Department to mine the area for sand. Interestingly, complaints over sand mining had also come last year when the same villages had raised concerns.

It is noteworthy that NOCs have been received from only one village comprising just a few households, while the sand mining impact is being felt in the states of both Meghalaya and Assam. At least seven households across both states have been impacted, leading to joint complaints by villages from both states to the DC of Goalpara. https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/06/17/illegal-sand-mining-from-manda-river-leads-to-soil-erosion-threat/  (17 June 2024)

Uttarakhand Illegal mining dries up Gomti river in Kumaon, leaves villages without water Once a vital water source for local villages, Gomti river, the lifeline of Katyur Valley in Kumaon, has dried up due to rampant illegal sand mining. This has left surrounding communities without water for their daily needs. Households are now grappling with an acute shortage of drinking water, especially during the summer, as per residents. Despite numerous complaints to authorities, precious little has been done, point out locals.

Villagers allege that illegal mining under the guise of river dredging has been responsible for draining the river. The continuous flow of the Gomti now barely sustains a trickle. On Saturday (June 15), women from several affected villages protested against the administration, blocking mining operations by sitting in front of dumpers and demanding an immediate halt to mining activities. In response to the protests, tehsildar Nisha Rani visited the site and conceded that mining activities have indeed polluted the river water.

D K Joshi, senior advocate at the Uttarakhand high court, condemned the irresponsible practices of mining operators and local authorities highlighting that overloaded dumpers illegally transport minerals without proper weighing measures, exacerbating the problem. Mining officer Jigyasa Bisht when queried, acknowledged the lack of proper equipment to measure mining vehicles in Garud, admitting that estimates are used instead. Bisht further said that mining is conducted under river dredging, with a govt-set royalty of Rs 9 lakh. She added that “hefty fines would be imposed on the leaseholders if investigations revealed illegal mining.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/illegal-mining-dries-up-gomti-river-in-kumaon-leaves-villages-without-water/articleshow/111046325.cms  (17 June 2024)

Madhya Pradesh FIR against 3 in sand mine collapse case An FIR has been lodged against three persons, including BJP’s Sihora Mandal president (city) Ankit Tiwari, in connection with deaths caused by a sand mine collapse in Jabalpur on June 5. Following an investigation, a report was filed on Wednesday (June 12) night, naming BJP leader in illegal mining activities along with his associates. Police stated that Sonu Bhadoria and Chintu Thakur were involved in illegal mining of sand from the mine. Ankit Tiwari facilitated the transport of sand with his tractor and other vehicles. Labourers from nearby villages were employed for Rs 300 per day. The police are currently searching for the accused.

Around 8 to 10 labourers were illegally mining sand near Barnu river adjacent to Katra Ramkhiriya in Gosalpur police station area when the upper part of the 20-feet deep mine collapsed on them. Three of them identified as Munni Bai (52), her son Mukesh (29), and Rajkumar Khatik (29), were buried under the debris. BJP MLA from Sihora, Santosh Barkade, told media that illegal sand mining has been going on in his assembly. The area where the mine collapsed was inspected, and SDM Sihora was asked to take action, but no steps were taken. The MLA plans to meet the collector to push for a complete halt to illegal mining and to demand action against any officials and employees involved. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhopal/fir-against-three-in-sand-mine-collapse-case-in-jabalpur/articleshow/110980163.cms  (14 June 2024)

बैतूल में रेत माफियाओं पर 1 अरब 37 करोड़ का जुर्माना बैतूल में अवैध रेत उत्खनन को लेकर अपर कलेक्टर न्यायालय  ने छह रेत माफियाओं के खिलाफ 1 अरब 37 करोड़ का जुर्माना लगाया है. कार्रवाई के दौरान जब्त की गई एक करोड़ 25 लाख मूल्य की दो पोकलैंड मशीनें और एक जेसीबी मशीन भी राजसात की गई है. https://www.agniban.com/1-billion-37-crore-fine-imposed-on-sand-mafia-in-betul-madhya-pradesh/#goog_rewarded (June 2024)

Report NGT ईस्टर्न जोन में 203 मामले पेंडिंग, बालू उठाव व पत्थर खनन के केस ज्यादा एनजीटी में सुनवाई के लिए देशभर में 3373 मामले लंबित हैं. ईस्टर्न जोनल बेंच में 203 मामले पेंडिंग हैं. इनमें बालू उठाव व पत्थर खनन के केस ज्यादा हैं. अन्य जोन की बेंचों में लंबित मामले: प्रिंसिपल बेंच (दिल्ली) – 1679; साउथ जोनल बेंच (चेन्नई) – 559; सेंट्रल जोनल बेंच (भोपाल) – 192; वेस्टर्न जोनल बेंच (पुणे) – 740; ईस्टर्न जोनल बेंच (कोलकाता) – 203. https://www.prabhatkhabar.com/state/west-bengal/national-green-tribunal-pending-cases-203-in-eastern-zonal-bench-more-cases-sand-lifting-stone-mining-3373-across-country-grj (12 Jun 2024)

Tamil Nadu Madras HC refuses to stay notices on miners With the Madras High Court refusing to stay the show cause notices served to beach sand mining lease holders over the alleged illicit mining of beach sand minerals (BSM) in Kanniyakumari, Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi, the government is keen on recovering a penalty of `5,035.42 crore from the defaulters. Earlier this year, the Department of Geology and Mines had issued two sets of notices to the beach sand miners, who held 64 mining leases in the state over illicit mining of BSM like ilmenite, garnet, rutile, leucoxene, zircon, monazite and sillimanite, based on the report by IAS officer Gagandeep Singh Bedi and the findings of amicus curiae.

It may be noted that beach sand mining has been banned in the state since 2013, following the formation of the Gagandeep Singh Bedi committee which submitted its report to the high court in 2017. While the notices served for the pre-ban period (2000-2013) sought explanation to recover Rs 3032.77 crore, the notices for violations during the post-ban period (2013-2016) aimed at recovering Rs 2,002.65 crore towards royalty and cost of minerals mined and transported illegally. Further, a notice for personal hearing was also served on those who did not provide the explanation initially. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2024/Jun/17/madras-hc-refuses-to-stay-notices-on-miners-tn-to-recover-rs-5k-cr-from-defaulters  (17 June 2024)

Karnataka 99k tree in Sandur face axe Ballari’s Sandur is set to lose 992 acres of virgin forest for mining amid opposition from the Forest Department, public outcry and a case pending before the High Court of Karnataka for nearly three years.

The project proposed by the Kudremukh Iron Ore Company (KIOCL), which DH wrote about on April 19, 2021, has come to the limelight after Union Heavy Industries and Steel Minister H D Kumaraswamy approved it, essentially giving a green signal for operationalizing the mine.  Activists said the development is another blow to the mining-ravaged region and a reflection of the prioritisation of profits over conservation and public health. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/99000-trees-in-sandur-forest-to-face-axe-3069082  (17 June 2024)

WETLANDS, LAKES, WATER BODIES

Meghalaya Umiam Lake under assault by garbage from Shillong As one draws closer to the lake at Mawlyndep, the garbage deposited by the rivers Umkhrah and Umshyrpi accumulates around the Umiam Lake. After heavy showers, when the lake fills to the brim, it belches out the garbage, which is then deposited along the banks. The garbage includes clothes, tons of thermocol discarded by fish vendors, hundreds of shoes and slippers, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) containers for junk food sold in every shop on Sunday.

-On June 5, World Environment Day, the Meghalaya Institute of Governance collaborated with Operation Clean-Up, the Union Christian College, and the Dorbar Shnong of Mawlyndep, led by Rangbah Shnong Gino Karbuki, along with the residents of the area, to clean up different sections of the Umiam Lake.

The challenge that Mawlyndep faces is that it cannot dump its garbage at Marten and lacks a scientifically managed garbage dump. All the garbage collected on June 5 has been temporarily stored in one location. The Dorbar Shnong must devise a plan to dispose of it, which can only be done by incinerating all non-biodegradable waste. Alternatively, the Shnong could dig a deep hole and dump all the garbage into it. However, both options are unsustainable and harmful to the environment.

-Addressing those who had gathered to clean the Umiam Lake on June 5, the Rangbah Shnong Mawlyndep, who has been consistently encouraging the residents to clean the lake, expressed concern about the government’s apparent indifference to the problems faced by the people of Mawlyndep, a village where many rely on fishing for their livelihood. Kharbuki said that if the garbage flowing all the way from Shillong ends up at the Umiam Lake, then a time will come when the water will be too polluted to support riverine life. What happens to livelihoods then, Kharbuki asks.

-The students also felt that World Environment Day (June 5) has become merely symbolic, and people tend to forget about environmental issues afterward. They emphasized, “Every day should be considered World Environment Day. The trees we plant today require nurturing to reach their full potential.” https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/06/10/umiam-lake-under-assault-by-garbage-from-shillong/  (10 June 2024)

WATER OPTIONS

-Shashiraj from Janapara Foundation talks about why lake rejuvenation is important in small towns like Chintamani. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_vdQ1CZ8P0 (23 April 2024)

GROUNDWATER

CGWB’s 2023 Groundwater report has been published. In general situation is worsening. In UP, the number of dark zones have come down from 105 in 2021 to 95 in 2023. In Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and W UP, there is over exploitation, but here there is water available for recharging. In parts of. Gujarat and Rajasthan over exploited areas, there is limited water available for recharging.

Report IISc develops 3-step process to remove arsenic from GW Scientists at Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru invented a sustainable three-step method to eliminate toxic heavy metals such as arsenic from contaminated groundwater. The researchers at IISc’s Centre for Sustainable Technologies (CST) developed this novel remediation process. The three-step method, which is patent-pending, also ensures that the removed heavy metals are disposed of in an environment-friendly manner, instead of sending untreated heavy metal-rich sludge to landfills from where they can potentially re-enter groundwater table.

– According to recent reports, groundwater in 113 districts across 21 Indian states has arsenic levels exceeding permissible limits, posing serious health risks to humans and animals. “The first step involves passing the contaminated water through a bed of chitosan-based adsorbent doped with iron and aluminium compounds. This bed captures inorganic arsenic through electrostatic forces. Notably, the alkaline wash used to regenerate the adsorbent bed is recycled within the system,” IISc said. In the second step, a membrane process separates arsenic from alkaline wash solution, concentrating the toxic metal for the next phase. The final step employs bioremediation, where microbes present in cow dung convert the highly toxic inorganic arsenic into less harmful organic forms through methylation. “On average, these organic species are approximately 50 times less toxic than the inorganic form present in groundwater,” says Roy.

– The remaining cow dung sludge containing the locked organic arsenic can be safely disposed of in landfills. The system is easy to assemble and operate, making it suitable for community-level implementation by residents. Field trials of the pilot-scale system have been conducted in collaboration with NGOs in rural areas of Karnataka and Bihar. Collection of waste, maintenance and operation are easier on a community scale, as also maintenance, says Rasmi Mohan T, PhD student at CST who has worked on the process. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/iisc-develops-three-step-process-to-remove-arsenic-from-groundwater/articleshow/110922168.cms  (12 June 2024)

Himachal Pradesh Carcinogenic content found in Baddi-Barotiwala groundwater In an alarming revelation, assessment of groundwater by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mandi, and IIT-Jammu in the state’s Baddi-Barotiwala industrial area has revealed high carcinogenic risks for adults, mainly from industrial nickel and chromium. Experts claim, “If left unattended, the lower Himalayan region is on a trajectory similar to south-western Punjab, which is considered the cancer belt of India.”

Dr Nitin Joshi, Assistant Professor, IIT-Jammu, while expressing concern, said, “The analysis revealed that, if left unattended, the lower Himalayan region is on a trajectory similar to south-western Punjab”. The belt houses more than 90 per cent of the state’s industry and non-functional effluent treatment plants where untreated effluents are conveniently let out through the drains. They find their way into the ground water much to the peril of the residents.

“Industrialisation has contaminated groundwater with toxic metals, exceeding permissible limits. The reliance on untreated groundwater has caused numerous health problems, including cancer and renal disease between 2013 and 2018,” indicates the study. The study once again corroborated the sorry state of affairs in this industrial belt while stressing the need for improved effluent treatment to reduce these risks. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/carcinogenic-content-found-in-baddi-barotiwala-groundwater-630507  (14 June 2024)

Punjab Worst fear comes true: village runs out of groundwater For the residents of Patton village in Fatehgarh Sahib, the only pumpset, installed by water supply and sanitation department, has stopped lifting water since August last year. The residents claim that the aquifers in the village have dried up completely and they are not getting any water for past several months. Upon visiting Patton on Wednesday (June 12), The Indian Express learnt that the groundwater there had high concentration of fluoride — caused by indiscriminate extraction and excessive use of phosphatic fertilisers — making it unfit for consumption.

“Several villages in Fatehgarh Sahib are affected. As many as 69 villages in Khera block alone are drinking canal water. The underground water has a high fluoride content,” Sanjay Giri, Junior Engineer handling canal water supply in Khera block, said. “We cannot say there is no water. Water is there, but it is highly concentrated. Residents having submersible bored to 350 feet can extract water, but it is unfit for consumption,” he added. However, SOS calls by villagers brought into sharp focus the issue of shortage of drinking water due to the overdrawing of underground water and the use of fertilisers. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/pump-runs-dry-village-demands-new-borewell-pvt-firm-9389309/  (14 June 2024)

Uttar Pradesh Gzb extracted 123% of water it recharged last yr This was the highest among 75 districts in the state, where the average was way below at 70.8%. On the points table, Ghaziabad was followed by Noida and Firozabad, where the annual average extraction rate was 104.8% and 104.7%, respectively.

With a population of 48.6 lakh, Ghaziabad is also home to more than 56,000 micro, small, medium and heavy industries. The city, the study showed, extracted 46,191 hectare-metre (HAM) — 1 HAM is equal to 100 lakh litres — of groundwater through last year. While 2,246.1 HAM was extracted for industrial use, a major chunk — 36,881.8 HAM — was used for irrigation. A total of 7,063.5 HAM was needed for household use, the study revealed. The district has 52,000 hectares of agricultural land.

In comparison, its water table was replenished by 41,675.3 HAM from various sources, including rainfall. But an average of 4,167.5 HAM of water was wasted, which means only 37,507.7 HAM was left for extraction. The city ended up using 23% more than its groundwater. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ghaziabad/ghaziabad-extracted-123-of-groundwater-recharged-last-year-highest-in-uttar-pradesh/articleshow/111044877.cms  (17 June 2024)

Kerala Study points to groundwater nitrate threat A study jointly conducted by researchers from Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos), Kerala University, and Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM), has highlighted a noticeable rise in nitrate levels in the groundwater resources. Nitrate contamination in groundwater is a growing concern globally, with potential health implications, especially for vulnerable populations like women and children.

Using data from the Central Groundwater Board (CGWB), the researchers found that nitrate concentrations in several areas exceed the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) limit of 45 mg/l. The affected regions include the northern parts of Thiruvananthapuram, the western coastal zones of Thrissur, Malappuram, and Kozhikode, and the eastern parts of the Idukki district.

The study, covering data from 2010 and 2018, identified consistent areas with high nitrate concentrations, despite the uneven spatial distribution. The researchers evaluated human health risks through oral ingestion and dermal contact pathways and stressed the need for proactive water quality management to protect public health. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/groundwater-nitrate-contamination-study-in-kerala-reveals-health-risks/articleshow/111046235.cms  (17 June 2024)

URBAN LAKES, WETLANDS

Thane Mangroves; wetlands near Ulhas River under siege  As climate change intensifies, the need to protect mangroves and wetlands has never been more urgent. However, in CM Eknath Shinde’s district, near the Ulhas River and alongside the Mumbai-Nashik highway, government agencies appear to be overlooking the issue of extensive illegal dumping on wetlands and mangroves. On Saturday (June 15), while this reporter was travelling towards Nashik on the Mumbai-Nashik highway between Thane and Kalyan, a significant amount of illegal dumping was seen next to the Ulhas River along the northbound side of the highway.

What is shocking is the fact that the mangroves and the wetlands adjacent to the Ulhas River are vanishing but there has been no action initiated. Time and again environmentalists and nature lovers have been highlighting the destruction of mangroves and wetlands in the Thane district, along with the threat that Ulhas River has been facing. We also observed that illegal dumping, including construction materials, was occurring on one side of the river. This dumping could reduce the river’s width in the future and potentially lead to flooding. The debris piled up is equivalent to a two-story building, yet the authorities are allegedly ignoring the issue. https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/thane-mangroves-and-wetlands-near-ulhas-river-under-siege-23354469  (17 June 2024)

Mumbai Flamingo Death: NGT issues notices to CIDCO, forest dept, wetland authority NGT issued notices dated May 30 to the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), the state forest department and the wetland authority, seeking their responses on the deaths of around 12 flamingos near the DPS Lake in Nerul, Navi Mumbai, on April 25. The bench transferred the case to the Western Zonal Bench and scheduled the hearing for July 17. The order pertains to the rampant death of flamingos at DPS Lake due to CIDCO’s development plan.

The NGT took note of the inlet blockage by the elevated roads constructed by CIDCO that resulted in water stagnation, disregarding the fact that flamingos typically inhabit areas of flowing waters. The tribunal also noted CIDCO’s intentions to use the lake area for future development and its inattention to HC’s notice to protect the natural habitat of the lake.

NatConnect Foundation’s director BN Kumar highlighted that CIDCO has breached its undertaking regarding the uninterrupted intertidal water flow during the construction of the passenger water terminal at Nerul. “NatConnect will file an intervention application to detail all of CIDCO’s violations,” said Kumar, adding that they are consulting their legal team on the matter. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/ngt-cidco-forest-dept-wetland-authority-flamingo-deaths-9384062/  (11 June 2024)

Green warrior completes 200-week mangrove restoration challenge In a significant step towards restoring the 35-km mangrove forest along the Navi Mumbai coastline, environmentalist Dharmesh Barai on Jun 16 successfully completed his 200-week mangrove restoration challenge, ensuring the restored mangroves are now under the care of the forest department for ongoing preservation. Barai, who leads the NGO Environment Life Foundation, began the “Mangrove Clean-Up Drive” on August 15, 2020, with a group of friends in coordination with Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation and the forest department. The initiative then grew into a massive public drive, attracting volunteers and environmental enthusiasts from across the city every Sunday. The challenge concluded with the cleaning of the mangroves at Sarsole Jetty along Palm Beach Road in nine weeks. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/green-warrior-mangrove-restoration-challenge-9396257/  (16 June 2024)

Bengaluru ‘Floating wetlands’ to keep Ulsoor Lake ecosystem fresh In a bid to balance the lake ecosystem and filter dirty water, over 150 volunteers made about 25 floating wetlands from recyclable material at Ulsoor Lake. These floating wetlands, which serve as a tiny ecosystem for the lake, contain around nine saplings each that absorb nutrients and convert them into oxygen as they drift around the lake, enhancing its ecological health.

These small floating ecosystems are easy to manage, allowing for the trimming of dead plant matter. This prevents the accumulation of additional biomass in the waterway and keeps the plants younger, so they can absorb more nutrients from the water.The floating wetlands are made using durable, non-toxic materials such as PVC pipes for the base and floats, with nine saplings planted within the structure’s frame. These plants help absorb nutrients and potentially harmful elements from the water, while microorganisms on their roots break down. https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bengaluru/2024/Jun/15/floating-green-islands-to-give-fresh-lease-of-life-to-ulsoor-lake-ecosystem  (15 June 20240

URBAN WATER

Mumbai Rural India runs dry as thirsty megacity sucks water Far from the gleaming high-rises of India’s financial capital Mumbai, impoverished villages in areas supplying the megacity’s water are running dry—a crisis repeated across the country that experts say foreshadows terrifying problems. When the well dries, the village then relies on a government tanker with irregular supplies, two or three times a week. It brings untreated water from a river where people wash and animals graze. Satgir’s home in the dusty village of Navinwadi, near the farming town of Shahapur, lies some 100 kilometers from the busy streets of Mumbai. The area is also the source of major reservoirs supplying some 60 percent of water to Mumbai, local government authorities say. “We’ve been requesting governments for years to ensure that the water available at the dams also reaches us,” she said. “But it just keeps getting worse.”

– It is a story repeated across India, said Himanshu Thakkar, from the South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People, a Delhi-based water rights campaign group. This is “typical of what keeps happening all over the country”, Thakkar said, adding it represents everything “wrong with the political economy of making dams in India”. “While projects are planned and justified in the name of drought-prone regions and its people, most end up serving only the distant urban areas and industries,” he said. https://phys.org/news/2024-06-rural-india-dry-thirsty-megacity.html#google_vignette (13 June 2024)

Delhi SC slams govt for not rectifying defects in water scarcity plea The judges on June 10 emphasized that court processes should not be taken lightly, warning that they might dismiss the plea if issues persist. “Never take us for granted. Filings are not being accepted. You straightaway hand over a series of documents in court and then you say you are suffering a deficit of water and pass an order today itself. You are raising all grounds of urgency and sitting leisurely. Let everything come on record. We will take it the day after tomorrow,” the bench stated, adjourning the matter to June 12.

The SC expressed its desire to review all files before the case hearing, as many updates are appearing in the news. “If we don’t read the files at our residential office we will be impressed by whatever the newspapers are reporting. That is not good for any of the parties,” said the bench. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/dont-take-us-for-granted-sc-slams-delhi-govt-for-not-rectifying-defects-in-water-scarcity-plea/articleshow/110868037.cms (10 Jun 2024)

One of the reasons for the water crisis in Delhi, which is dependent on Himachal Pradesh and Haryana for water, is the lack of use of surface water bodies like lakes and ponds. According to a 2023 report by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, 73.5 per cent of surface water bodies in Delhi were not usable due to effluents, waste and drying up. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/water-supply-crisis-deepens-nationwide-southern-states-still-fare-worse-101717753487244.html  (07 June 2024)

According to the Economic Survey of Delhi 2023-24, 58% of the water produced by the Delhi Jal Board is “non-revenue”. It is either stolen or leaked. Across the globe, the average of non-revenue water is around 25% to 30%. In Delhi, official records say the percentage is much higher. In 2021, of the 925 MGD of water produced on an average from April to December, only around 419 MGD was delivered to consumers and billed. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/from-treatment-plants-to-taps-why-over-half-of-citys-water-goes-missing-in-transit-9396564/  (17 June 2024)

Faridabad 75% of the limited number of existing Rain Water Harvesting systems in Faridabad are defunct. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/majority-of-rainwater-harvesting-systems-defunct-in-faridabad-629993 (12 Jun 2024) https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/75-rainwater-harvesting-systems-in-faridabad-defunct-571708  (14 Dec. 2023)

Gurugram ‘Infra snags trigger water crisis’, residents hit the street A group of residents, mostly senior citizens, on June 06 assembled at the boosting station in Sector 55 and accused MCG of mismanagement and failing to deliver adequate water supply to their households. They asserted that the boosting station has been beset by operational breakdowns, mainly due to negligence of the pump operator and lack of oversight by MCG.

-Ashok Julka, RWA president of Sector 55, said that over 400 families have been struggling to get water for basic chores for the past 2-3 months. “Even today when we protested and they started the supply, the motor at the booster got damaged within minutes,” he said.

-The crisis is not confined to Sector 55. Residents of new sectors along SPR face a similar problem. They said on Thursday that several housing societies are spending Rs 3-4 lakh every month on private water tankers.

-“From our requirement of 550 KLD, we are only getting 200 KLD from GMDA. The pressure is so low that even after 10 hours, we are not able to get adequate supply. Although we have asked residents to use water judiciously, whatever reserve we had is also depleting fast,” said Neehar Rajan, RWA president of Astaire Garden.

-Residents pointed out that GMDA needs to modernise infrastructure and adopt measures to conserve water. The crisis is exacerbated by the dwindling storage levels at the WTPs. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/infrastructure-issues-cause-water-crisis-in-gurgaon-residents-protest/articleshow/110777705.cms  (07 June 2024)

EDIT Urban India needs to fix its water problem The health of aquifers continues to be neglected. The country has historically tried to address water deficits by focusing on supply-side parameters. There is very little coordination between departments that deal with surface and groundwater, irrigation resources and drinking water. The few water-sharing arrangements between riverine states come apart during shortage seasons. And plans to harvest rainwater remain largely on paper, despite floods and dry spells alternating with worrying regularity in most parts of the country.

-However, demand-side management of water resources also requires analyses of practices at the household and industrial levels. Currently, the data on per capita water availability for different users is sketchy. Emergencies, such as the latest shortage in Delhi, usually precipitate knee-jerk responses such as imposing fines for wasting water, when the need is to incentivise water conservation, reuse, and recycling. With climate vagaries imperiling the country’s already-stressed aquifers, the new government should hit the ground running. https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/editorials/drying-up-what-urban-india-needs-to-fix-its-water-problem-9384149/  (11 June 2024)

WATER POLLUTION

Karnataka 6 killed, 100s hospitalised in Tumakuru temple fair water contamination A tragic incident of water contamination during a temple fair in Tumakuru district has resulted in the death of six people, including a three-year-old child, and hospitalisation of at least 110 others. The contamination was reportedly caused due to the poor maintenance of an overhead tank. The tragedy unfolded during a weeklong annual temple fair dedicated to deities Lakshmidevi and Kempannadevi, which began on June 9.

Dr Sreenivas, the Taluk health officer, told the media that laboratory tests of water samples from the overhead tank revealed significant contamination. He warned residents not to use water from the tank, leading to the district administration cutting off the tap water supply to the village. Alternatively, potable water is now being distributed through tankers, and citizens are advised to boil all water before consumption. The hygiene of drinking water from the overhead tank has long been contested due to neglect and lack of maintenance. In light of the recent tragedy, Panchayat Development Officer (PDO) BV Muniraju and waterman S Nagaraju were suspended on June 13 for dereliction of duty. https://www.thenewsminute.com/karnataka/karnataka-6-killed-hundreds-hospitalised-in-tumakuru-temple-fair-water-contamination  (14 June 2024)

JJM/ RURAL WATER SUPPLY

Manipur JJM scam in Kakching district exposed In a suspected case of scam, villages which do not have any water connecting pipes under Hiyanglam assembly constituency in Kakching district of Manipur were found listed as ‘connected’ with tap water supply under records available for the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).  In the villages of Arong Nongmaikhong, Pumlen Pat Khoidum Lamjao, there has been neither installation of any water tap nor pipes though the JJM fund has been reportedly released. In a suspicious manner, the name of a dead person was also found listed among the records of households which have received water connections. https://www.ifp.co.in/manipur/jal-jeevan-mission-scam-in-manipurs-kakching-district-exposed  (17 June 2024)

WATER

Access to clean water eludes poor families Bharat Dogra writes about the working conditions in Bundelkhand villages during heat waves, including water access issues. https://www.counterview.net/2024/06/access-to-clean-water-eludes-poor.html  (June 2024)

MONSOON 2024

Goa Margao experiences ‘extreme rainfall’ of 153mm Data from rain gauge stations across the state shows that Margao received 153mm of rain, qualifying the event as “extreme rainfall”. The Margao rain gauge station had received 151.9mm from June 1 to June 8. Behind Margao, Canacona recorded 91.2mm of rainfall.

-On Jun 9, from 8.30am to 5.30pm, Panaji received 84.0mm of rainfall, while Old Goa recorded 69.0mm. With an excess of 46.5% in rainfall since June 1, Goa is perhaps experiencing one of its wettest monsoon within days of the onset.

-Moreover, seasonal totals depict a stark contrast in rainfall distribution across the state. Sanquelim recorded the highest seasonal rainfall at 319.2mm, while Ponda reported the lowest at 134.4mm. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/margao-experiences-extreme-rainfall-of-153mm-orange-alert-in-place-till-tomorrow/articleshow/110854006.cms  (10 June 2024)

Pune 117 mm rains on June 09, marking wettest June; monsoon reaches early in 55 yrs –Pune (Shivajinagar) recorded 117 mm of rainfall on Sunday (June 09), marking the third wettest June day since 1969. Thunderstorms and heavy downpours late Saturday (June 08)caused significant flooding in Pune and large parts of Mumbai, submerging major roads and underpasses. According to IMD’s data, Pune’s Lohegaon and surrounding areas reported 1398 mm of rainfall over the past 24 hours.

The average rainfall in Pune (Shivajinagar) for June is 156.3 mm. Jun 8’s heavy rains pushed the city past this monthly average, reaching a total of 209.1 mm by 8:30 am on Sunday (June 09), even before the official onset of the monsoon. The wettest June day in Pune since 1969 occurred in 1991, with 529.5 mm recorded against an annual average of 763 mm. This season’s monsoon arrived early in Mumbai and Pune, two days ahead of the usual date of Jun 11. https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/monsoon-arrives-early-in-maharashtra-as-pune-records-117-mm-rains-on-sunday-marking-wettest-june-day-in-55-years/3519937/ (10 Jun 2024)

FLOOD 2024

DAM FLOODS Assam Improve coordination to stop Golaghat flood rerun, HC to Govt & Neepco The Gauhati high court has instructed the Assam government and the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (Neepco) to improve their coordination to prevent floods like the one that occurred in Golaghat district in 2018. The floods, which submerged several villages, were allegedly caused by the sudden release of water from the Doyang Hydro Electric Project in Nagaland’s Wokha district. Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi and Justice Suman Shyam, while hearing a petition filed by Bobrubahan Saikia in 2018, expressed their hope and trust that the state administration and Neepco will take effective measures to prevent such situations from occurring in the future.

– According to the petitioner’s counsel, R K Dutta, there was a lack of coordination between Neepco and the state authorities. He argued that the district authorities were not provided with timely information about the release of water from the Doyang river, which prevented the affected villagers from being evacuated or warned in time, resulting in heavy losses to their properties. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/improve-coordination-to-stop-golaghat-flood-rerun-hc-tells-govt-neepco/articleshow/110952156.cms  (13 June 2024)

Sikkim North Sikkim is again affected by heavy rain, floods, landslides and lack of transport and communication since June 12.

https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/landslides-devastate-sikkim-again-power-telecom-snapped-1000-tourists-stranded/cid/2026810  (14 June 2024)

URBAN FLOODS

Nagpur Metro halts Nag river widening for lack of funds With monsoon round the corner, Ambazari residents are growing anxious, recalling the floods of 9/23 caused by the narrow Nag riverbed inside Krazy Castle. The ₹20 crore demanded from the state govt to widen the riverbed is yet to be received, and widening work is at a standstill. A post-flood survey had indicated that the width of Nag riverbed should be 18m, while it is currently 14m, which led to the flooding.

Mahametro had begun the work of desilting the 420m stretch of Nag river following a survey by the irrigation department submitted to NMC. However, for the widening of the riverbed, Mahametro has requested ₹20 crore from the state government. The survey had claimed the narrow width of riverbed obstructed flow of Nag River and caused last year’s flood. After which, a proposal for widening was submitted to the divisional commissioner on April 16, said a senior Mahametro official. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/metro-halts-nag-river-widening-for-lack-of-funds/articleshow/110778742.cms  (07 June 2024) Metro still awaits funds to widen Nag river stretch. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/metro-still-awaits-funds-to-widen-nag-river-stretch/articleshow/110130512.cms  (15 May 2024)

Pune PMC cuts unauthorised optical fibre cables blocking storm drains The Pune Municipal Corp (PMC) on Jun 9 aggressively cut unauthorised optical fibre cables laid by different internet service providers through the stormwater lines at Sinhagad Road and other parts of the city. These cables, PMC officials said, clogged stormwater lines, resulting in massive waterlogging on Sinhgad road on Saturday (June 08) after the city received around 117mm of rainfall.

Officials said they also found an empty barrel downstream in the Manikbaugh nullah. Additionally, a private plot owner had narrowed the nullah with construction, creating an obstacle to the water flow. PMC noticed that the National Highway placed duct and they did not clean it from Wadgaon Bridge to Warje Bridge. PMC cleaned the duct.

-Construction on Gunthewari plots in Dhanori, Ambegaon, Dhankawadi, and Wadgaonsheri resulted in a narrowing of the width of nullahs, leading to waterlogging. The PMC drainage department has asked the building permission and construction department to clear these encroachments to clean the nullahs. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/pune-news/after-waterlogging-pmc-cuts-unauthorised-optical-fibre-cables-blocking-storm-drains-101717958601002.html  (10 June 2024)

DISASTERS

Himachal Pradesh No let-up in HP forest fires: Over 1.5K in 50 days As per forest department data, the state has recorded 1,684 forest fires since the onset of summer on April 15. Fires have damaged 17,471 hectares of forest land, besides harming and disturbing wildlife in such a vast area. Last year, the state reported 681 forest fires, 103 in summer and 578 in winter season.

-Out of the total affected area, 13,000 hectares is plantation area and total losses to the forest department have crossed Rs 6 crore. As on June 9, Dharamshala forest circle topped the state with highest 419 forest fires, followed by Hamirpur with 227 fires, Mandi with 261 fires, Nahan with 198 and Bilaspur with 143. Fires in Dharamshala forest circle have damaged 2,458 hectares of land and caused losses of Rs 1.13 crore. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/shimla/no-let-up-in-hp-forest-fires-over-15k-in-50-days/articleshow/110887139.cms  (11 June 2024)

ENVIRONMENT GOVERNANCE

MoEF took ‘Many Steps’ which came at the cost of environment itself The Wire lists some of the steps taken by the Union environment ministry during the last ten years that pose challenges for the protection of India’s environment and conservation of wildlife. This is not a comprehensive list, by any means. But one that goes to show some of the “many steps” that the Union environment ministry took after 2014 that overlooked the environment as well as local, indigenous and vulnerable communities, and continues to do so. These examples are a stark reminder that so far, environment and development have definitely not gone together during the ten years of Modi’s prime ministership. https://thewire.in/environment/yes-environment-ministry-took-many-steps-under-modi-but-they-cost-environment-itself  (14 June 2024)

India among world’s worst 5 on green performance index The Environmental Performance Index of 2024 released earlier this month positioned India at 176th spot, which is a marginal improvement from the EPI 2022 that put the world’s most populous country at the bottom (180th position) of the chart. The EPI documents India’s continuous slide since 2012. India fared poorly in parameters like ‘ecosystem vitality’; ‘biodiversity and habitat’; ‘species protection index’; ‘terrestrial biome’ and ‘air quality’. But it scores better in some of the areas related to forest conservation despite weakening the regulations. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/india-among-the-worlds-worst-five-on-green-performance-index-3068870  (16 June 2024)

Book Release Perils of mega dev. project on Great Nicobar Island A book examining the perils of the proposed ₹72,000-crore mega infrastructure development project in the Great Nicobar Island, the southernmost island in the Nicobar islands, part of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, was launched in Chennai on Friday (June 14). Titled ‘The Great Nicobar Betrayal’, the book, published by Frontline, has been put together by Pankaj Sekhsaria, an associate professor at the Centre for Technology Alternatives for Rural Areas, IIT Bombay and a diligent chronicler of the Andaman and Nicobar islands.

It is a compilation of articles by different authors published in Frontline and other news publications. The massive project envisioned by NITI Aayog, includes construction of a transshipment port at Galathea Bay — a significant hotspot for leatherback turtle nesting — an international airport, a power plant, and a greenfield township on more than 160 square kilometres of land, of which 130 sq.km. is primary forests. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/book-on-great-nicobar-island-cautions-against-mega-infrastructure-development-project/article68289873.ece/amp/ (15 Jun 2024)

Uttar Pradesh Mathura activist died after 4-month hunger strike A resident of Shankar Garhi village in Mathura district’s Mant tehsil, Devki Nandan had been on a crusade over the last 13 years against alleged financial irregularities in rural development work in the village, such as construction of toilets under the Swachh Bharat Mission. The activist had gone on five other hunger strikes before this, demanding an investigation into the work done during the tenures of four ex-pradhans of the village. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/lucknow/mathura-activist-on-hunger-strike-against-graft-in-rural-development-works-dies-9391690/  (15 June 2024)

SOUTH ASIA

IWT Pakistani delegation to visit J&K after 2019 Pakistan Indus delegation is visiting India for the first time since 2019, starting from June 17 2024, along with a World Bank appointed team of neutral experts. In 2019 they visited Pakal Dul and Lower Kalnai projects in J&K. They are now coming for a 12day visit as part of WB appointed dispute settlement mechanism under the Indus Commission.

– Oct 2022: WB appointed the neutral expert as per India request (Pak request to this effect in 2016 was withdrawn later on) and Court of Arbitration as per Pak request. In July 2023 Court of Arbitration decided that it is competent to look into the complaint of the Pakistan, though India boycotted the Court of Arbitration process. In March 2024 Pakistan filed its first Memorial, which listed out its legal case with documents, under this process. In Apr 2024, the Court did a week-long visit to Neelum-Jhelum Hydro-Electric Plant in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir “to familiarise the Court with general aspects of the design and operation of run-of-river hydro-electric plants along the Indus system of rivers”.

India submitted a Memorial to the Neutral Expert in Aug 2023. Pakistan joined the second meeting of the parties held by Neutral Expert at Vienna in September 2023, which discussed matters related to the organisation of the site visit. https://thewire.in/diplomacy/pakistani-delegation-to-visit-jammu-and-kashmir-to-review-disputed-hydroelectric-power-projects/ (16 Jan 2024)

WB expert, Pakistan team in J&K next week to examine hydro projects A delegation from Pakistan, along with a World Bank-appointed neutral expert, is arriving in J&K next week to discuss and examine hydroelectric projects in the UT. An official said that the delegates will arrive in J&K on June 17 and stay until June 28. The neutral expert will examine the Ratle Hydroelectric Project in Chenab Valley, and the Kishanganga Power House in Bandipore’s Gurez. Pakistan has been raising objections to the construction of the hydroelectric power projects in J&K, saying the water discharge to the country would be reduced because of them. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/world-bank-expert-pakistan-team-in-jk-next-week-to-examine-hydro-projects-9395151/  (16 June 2024)

India-Bhutan MoENR minister quizzed on hydropower & minerals Bumdeling-Jamkhar MP, Wangdi, asked about the commencement of the Kholongchhu Hydropower Project. Lyonpo said that the government was in discussion with India’s Tata. “The Druk Green Power Corporation and the Tata are expected to sign the agreement in July this year.” Lyonpo said that the two units of 1, 020MW Punatsangchhu-II were expected to be completed by August 15 this year. He added that the government would discuss with the Adani Group in India on construction plans of the 180MW Bunakha project; the 1,125MW Dorjilung’s detailed project report has been completed and the government is looking for funding support from the World Bank. He added that 2,800MW Kuri-Gongri’s detailed project report would start soon. https://kuenselonline.com/moenr-minister-quizzed-on-hydropower-and-minerals/  (15 June 2024)

Bhutan PM: We have a (Punatsanghchu II) project nearing completion and that’s going to generate 1,020 MW. We have another (Punatsangchu I) project of 1,200 MW which is under construction. It will take another four years, maybe a little more, to complete. We have a third project of 600 MW which is also under construction. Beyond these projects, we are looking to add another, at least to begin construction on, another 5,000 MW. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-bhutan-ties-sacred-unique-i-am-delighted-that-pm-modi-is-back-tshering-tobgay-9384448/  (11 June 2024)

Pakistan WB approves $1 billion for Dasu HEP The World Bank has approved an additional $1 billion in funding for Pakistan’s 4320-5400 MW Dasu Project out of which Dasu Hydropower Stage I (DHP I) Project is of 2160 MW.  The Dasu hydropower project is located on the Indus River near Dasu Town in Upper Kohistan District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. https://www.waterpowermagazine.com/news/world-bank-approves-1-billion-for-pakistans-dasu-hydropower-project/  (11 June 2024)

Nepal WHC welcomes conservation efforts at Manas The World Heritage Committee (WHC) has expressed serious concern over the continued absence of information from the States Parties of India and Bhutan regarding the Mangdechhu hydroelectric project. Despite repeated requests, neither the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) nor the Environmental Management Plan has been submitted.

The Mangdechhu hydroelectric project, governed by a bilateral agreement between India and Bhutan, has been under scrutiny since 2012 when the WHC first requested Bhutan to submit an EIA. This assessment was to include potential impacts on the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the area. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) had also received third-party reports indicating that another dam upstream, the Kurichu Dam, was adversely affecting the OUV of the property. https://www.eastmojo.com/news/2024/06/09/world-heritage-committee-welcomes-conservation-efforts-at-manas/  (09 June 2024)

Floods in Taplejung wash away bridges  A flood that occurred on Jun 12 night in Taplejung swept away bridges in various places across Phaktanglung Rural Municipality. After four bridges were washed away in different locations, the road connecting Tamor Corridor, linking Phungling to Tapethok-Lellep, has been obstructed. https://english.makalukhabar.com/2024/06/195396/  (13 June 2024)

THE REST OF THE WORLD

UK Celebrate a recent weir removal in the Evenlode Catchment  Removed in 2024, the old stone weir with concrete topping had approximately 4-meter in length and measured 1 meter in height. This project, though small in scale, is one of the pioneering efforts in the Evenlode catchment area. It serves as a case study for addressing similar barriers within the region.

Ultimately, the project aimed to facilitate fish passage, improve local hydro-morphology, restore natural sediment transportation, and enhance the overall river habitat. The initiative is part of the broader efforts by the Evenlode Catchment Partnership (ECP) to achieve good ecological health for the river Evenlode catchment. https://damremoval.eu/live-event-uk/  (06 June 2024)

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

Also see: DRP News Bulletin 10 June 2024 & DRP News Bulletin 03 June 2024  

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