(Feature Image: Screenshot of Local News India July 06, 2024 video report showing Luhri-I HEP tunnel outlet flooded after rise in Satluj water level.)

The controversial under construction Luhri Hydroelectric Project (HEP) Stage-I is being developed by Sutlej Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (SJVNL) on Sutlej river near village Nirath village in Shimla and Kullu districts of Himachal Pradesh. The 210 MW HEP involves construction of an 80 m high concrete gravity dam with six bay gated spillways, a 567 m long horse shoe shaped diversion tunnel, two coffer dams, a surface power house, intake structure and penstocks among other parts.

The project would require 149.07 ha land including of 98.10 ha forest land and 50.97 ha private land. The project dam would create 6 km long reservoir area submerging 100.23 ha of land comprising of 63.52 ha of forest and 36.7 ha of private land. 39.47 ha of the submergence area is riverbed land.

Continue reading “Himachal Pradesh: Damages at Luhri-I HEP Reveals Loopholes in Dam Safety Act” →