(Feature Image: Vadodara: A flooded area after heavy monsoon rainfall, in Vadodara, Tuesday, Aug. 27). Photo Credit: PTI/The Hindu)

Like every monsoon, a number of cities have faced catastrophic floods in SW monsoon this year. Vadodara and Vijaywada have got the media attention more than any other city for urban floods this year. In both cases a number of factors are common: role of upstream dams, encroachment on water bodies including rivers, lakes, streams, role of illegal sand mining particularly in Vijaywada, not having learnt any lessons from past flood disasters.

It is interesting to see Andhra Pradesh CM hinting at bringing HYDRAA like enforcement institution to remove encroachments on Budameru and other water bodies. Considering the nature of his politics and track record, it is doubtful if this NDA CM will take such a bold step, but it is certainly worthy of consideration for almost all urban areas in India.

There is also need for better rainfall monitoring, reporting and forecasting system in place along with a disaster management in system that can effectively use such information in disaster management. We also need better flood forecasting for urban areas urgently. Urban areas also need a National Water Policy as today there is nothing to guide the water, including flood management in urban areas.

Vadodara Cause & effects diagram of Vishwamitri floods From Rohit Prajapati.

Man made floods Research by Udit Bhatia, Associate Professor at IITGN team pointed at the flooding in Vadodara as the likely outcome of “extensive urban development in flood-prone areas, altered elevations and drainage patterns compromised due to rapid urbanisation and clogged drainage systems”. “Analysis of urban land use shows rapid expansion near riverbanks, particularly downstream in Vadodara, where developments are vulnerable to persistent flooding. Intense rainfall poses a significant challenge to drainage systems, and without integrating urban basin management, even routine rainfall events could have unexpectedly severe consequences,” he told Indian Express.

Activist Rohit Prajapati of Paryavaran Suraksha Samiti, who had dragged VMC to NGT in 2016, said, “The reason behind flooding are an unprepared city that choked and blocked every natural water drain and reduced absorption and carrying capacity in its ill-conceived quest for development. Mega infrastructure projects like the Vadodara-Ahmedabad Express Highway, the eight lane Delhi-Mumbai Express Highway and the (Mumbai to Ahmedabad) bullet train project have obstructed and altered the inter-linked natural river system…” Blaming VMC for not acting on the NGT directive of 2021, he said, “A temporal analysis through satellite images and other secondary data can be undertaken to identify the extent of disruptions over the years… This could be the biggest flood in a century.” https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/gujarat-heavy-rain-vadodara-vadodara-waterlogging-power-outage-cellphone-network-collapse-vishwamitri-river-9557252/ (9 Sep 2024)

बड़ी परियोजनाओं और नदी क्षेत्र में मलबे की डंपिंग ने बर्बाद की जलप्रणाली  पर्यावरण कार्यकर्ता रोहित प्रजापति ने केंद्र और राज्य सरकार के साथ नगर निगम समेत स्थानीय प्रशासन के वरिष्ठ अधिकारियों को भेजे गए पत्र में संंयुक्त रूप से कहा बीते वर्ष आई बाढ़ और जलभराव की घटनाओं से कोई सबक नहीं सीखा गया। साथ ही विश्वामित्री नदी के “पुनरुद्धार” के लिए गलत सलाह और गलत विचार वाले प्रयास किए गए जिससे बाढ़ और जलभराव का ठोस समाधान नहीं निकल सका है। अधिकारियों को भेजे गए ठोस कार्रवाई की मांग वाले पत्र में कहा गया है कि वडोदरा में बाढ़ और जलभराव की घटनाओं की तीव्रता और सीमा पिछले 20 वर्षों में और भी खराब हो गई है। इस कारण से नियमित रूप से जलमग्न होने वाले क्षेत्रों के अलावा ‘सुरक्षित’ क्षेत्र भी जलमग्न हो गए हैं। https://hindi.downtoearth.org.in/river/vadodara-floods-environmentalists-say-big-projects-and-dumping-of-debris-in-river-area-ruined-water-system  (05 Sept 2024)

Vijayawada ‘Operation Budameru’ to remove encroachers along river The state govt is going to launch ‘Operation Budameru’ soon after normalcy is restored in Vijayawada. CM N Chandrababu Naidu hinted about bringing ‘HYDRAA’-like legislation to remove encroachments in the rivulet. aidu said that a comprehensive survey will be conducted along Budameru till its destination point. He said that this should be the last flood in Vijayawada and the state govt will take all measures to ensure that this kind of situation will not repeat ever.

After the recent incessant rains, Budameru flood inundated 40% of the city, affecting about 2.5 lakh families for more than one week. Budameru, which is a small rivulet, received an unprecedented flood on September 1, causing 16 breaches along its bunds, leading to flash flood in the city. It was estimated that the rivulet received about 70,000 cusecs of water against its discharge capacity of 14,500 cusecs. The state govt is also considering strengthening the bunds by building a retaining wall at vulnerable places and in the city to ensure that water will not overflow from the bunds.

Operation Budameru will focus on working out alternative solutions for increasing the discharge capacity in case of flash floods and cloud bursts, apart from the removal of encroachments. Enhancement of flood discharge capacity of the diversion channel, building a reservoir with 20 tmc ft capacity downstream of Pulichintala project, and launching a clean-up drive to remove fish tanks in Kolleru. Increasing or restoring the contours of Kolleru are part of the Operation Budameru agenda, said sources. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/cm-n-chandrababu-naidu-operation-budameru-to-remove-encroachers-along-river/articleshow/113217961.cms  (10 Sept. 2024)

Govt to build retaining wall to prevent flooding Municipal administration and urban development minister Dr P Narayana has said that the state govt is contemplating taking up the construction of a retaining wall to protect residential areas in the city from future floods. He mentioned that CM had already directed the water resources department to increase the height of Budameru bunds to prevent additional flooding. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/vijayawada-floods-retaining-wall-to-prevent-flooding-from-budameru-on-cards-says-andhra-pradesh-minister-p-narayana/articleshow/113162661.cms  (08 Sept. 2024)

Tracing the causes of a catastrophe Decades of political neglect and unchecked encroachments have exacerbated the Budameru flood crisis, with a stalled ₹500-crore modernisation project and political parties engaging in blame game. As residential developments encroach on floodplains and flood management efforts falter, Vijayawada faces recurring disasters with no lasting solutions in sight.

The devastating floods in Vijayawada city, caused by breaches in the Budameru rivulet, has highlighted a multitude of issues ranging from government neglect and lack of commitment on the part of successive governments to finding a permanent solution. What is most telling is the fact that the State government still lacks comprehensive data on the encroachments along the drain, despite a recurring pattern of the rivulet inundating entire swathes of farmland and residential areas along its course over the years.

In 1956, leaders from the Socialist Party and the Congress Party launched a movement to draw attention to the hardships faced by the people whenever the Budameru overflowed. Since then, every political party has staged protests and agitations while in the opposition, but has done little to address the issue once in power. The recommendations of expert committees, such as the Mitra Committee in 1966, were largely ignored, with the exception of the construction of a head regulator at Velagaleru in G. Konduru mandal in 1970. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Vijayawada/budameru-flood-crisis-tracing-the-causes-of-a-catastrophe/article68638554.ece  (14 Sept. 2024)

How Encroachment On Natural Water Bodies Led To Massive Flooding In Vijayawada. https://www.ndtv.com/video/explained-how-encroachment-on-natural-water-wodies-led-to-massive-flooding-in-vijayawada-836508  (12 Sept. 2024)

Prakasam barrage floods city In an unprecedented situation in the history of 170-year-old Prakasam barrage on Krishna river in Vijayawada, the state irrigation department authorities on Monday (Sept. 02) released 1.18 million cusecs of water from the barrage, which resulted in inundation of a large number of residential colonies in the low-lying areas of the city and several villages downstream of the river in Krishna district. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/118-million-cusecs-of-water-released-from-barrage-inundates-parts-of-vijaywada-101725305061811.html  (03 Sept. 2024)

Why Vijayawada Floods Are a Man-Made Disaster The primary cause of flooding in Vijayawada is the overflowing of the Budameru, not a breach. (breach happened on Sep 3, not before). It’s called “The Sorrow of Vijayawada.” To mitigate this, the Budameru Diversion Channel (BDC) is used to redirect the Budameru flow into the Krishna River. In this context, the blue line represents the Budameru, while the yellow line indicates the Polavaram Right Main Canal (BDC). https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1831204773548208601.html  (Gordon Gekko 4 Sep 2024) https://x.com/KiranWeatherman/status/1831539059245613476 (Vizag Weatherman, 5 Sep 2024)

Interesting statement by Union Agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan: “The illegal mining during the previous regime is one of the reasons for the breach of Budameru.” https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2024/Sep/06/army-to-step-in-to-plug-budameru-canal-breach  (06 Sept. 2024)

Hyderabad Flooding blamed on garbage chocked nalas In an interview with the Deccan Chronicle, retired GHMC Chief Engineer Kishan said residents living near rainwater drainage channels (nalas) dispose of garbage, including broken furniture, into these nalas, leading to blockages. People view the nalas as convenient dumping grounds, resulting in clogging, overflow, and flooding during heavy rains. The five key reasons for the recurring flooding, according to retired GHMC Chief Engineer Kishan, are changing meteorological conditions, unregulated construction across the city, which causes rainwater to flow directly into drains and nalas, encroachment on nalas, disposal of garbage into nalas, and the failure to separate domestic sewage from stormwater.

To prevent future flooding, the retired officer offered several recommendations based on his experience, which include enhancing the city’s greenery and adopting the “Sponge City” concept, which allows water to get percolated to ground. He suggested that every house should have a rainwater harvesting pit, and porous concrete roads should be laid across the GHMC region, particularly in parks and open grounds. 

The expert also called for widening of nalas, and development of alternative drainage systems for stormwater. “Of the total 300 kilometres of drainage network, around 100 kilometers of lake connectivity has been completed in SNDP Phase 1. The second phase, which requires around Rs 600 crores, is still in the planning stage.”  https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/telangana/hyderabad-flooding-blamed-on-nalas-blocked-by-garbage-1822625 (10 Sep 2024)

Chennai WRD starts cleaning waterways The Water Resources Department (WRD) has accelerated work to clear sand bars from various confluence points of the Buckingham canal and the sea and the Cooum river estuary, ahead of the northeast monsoon, in an effort to alleviate inundation. The works to clean the three waterways — Buckingham canal, Otteri Nullah and Virugambakkam Arumbakkam canal — were started by August end at a cost of ₹3.50 crore. Though other monsoon preparedness works, worth ₹35 crore, including in Cuddalore district, were started earlier, the three waterways were excluded as they were initially planned to be dredged as part of restoration projects. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/water-resources-department-steps-up-monsoon-preparation-work-starts-cleaning-waterways/article68634502.ece  (12 Sept. 2024)

Cholavaram reservoir, one of the water sources of Chennai city, that suffered severe damage post cyclone Michaung, is being rejuvenated to prevent leaks and erosion, and ensure dam safety. The Water Resources Department has completed work to strengthen the critical portions of the bund to avoid flood threat to downstream areas during the ensuing Northeast monsoon. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/cholavaram-reservoirs-bund-that-suffered-severe-damage-last-monsoon-gets-restored/article68630834.ece  (11 Sept. 2024)

Nagpur 9/23 memories return to haunt as 2-hour deluge A two-hour deluge on Thursday morning in peak summer sent residents downstream of Ambazari Lake and along Nag River grappling with rising waters and bringing alive horrific memories of last September, when devastating floods submerged over 25,000 homes. Thursday’s May 09, downpour was around 50% of the total rainfall of 88mm recorded in April, which saw 10 rainy days this year.

Overflowing sewers kept areas vulnerable to floods like Purohit Layout, Ambazari Layout, Kasturba Layout, Samata Layout, Yashwant Nagar, Daga Layout, Corporation Colony, Dandige Layout and Shankar Nagar on tenterhooks. A TOI recce of flood-affected areas found sewage from choked underground chambers inundating several homes. The drainage systems too virtually collapsed, submerging several neighbourhoods. Roads turned into rivulets, exposing blockage in stormwater network and forcing residents to navigate waterlogged streets to protect their homes and belongings. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/9/23-memories-return-to-haunt-as-2-hour-deluge-floods-nagpur-sewage-swamps-houses/articleshow/110014259.cms  (10 May 2024)

Delhi CPWD to upgrade  SWD around old Parliament building The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) plans to augment the stormwater drainage system in and around the old Parliament House, a month after the complex witnessed waterlogging this monsoon, The Indian Express has learnt. On July 31, while Parliament was in session, water collected on the driveway between the new and old Parliament buildings during heavy rainfall, leading some MPs to raise the issue on social media and inside the House. An official aware of the development, however, said the project was routine. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/cpwd-stormwater-drains-old-parliament-building-leakage-rain-9568773/  (16 Sept. 2024)

Video Why we need to stop straightening rivers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATtHne5NKE8  (06 Sept. 2024)

HYDRO POWER PROJECTS

Centre Budgetary Support scheme’s modification for HEPs approved The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Power for modification of the scheme of budgetary support for the cost of Enabling Infrastructure for Hydro Electric Projects (HEP) with a total outlay of Rs.12461 crore. The scheme would be implemented from FY 2024-25 to FY 2031-32. For the faster development of Hydro Electric Projects and improvement of infrastructure in the remote project locations, the following modifications have been made in the earlier scheme:

a)   Including four more items apart from construction of roads and bridges: (i) transmission line from power house to the nearest pooling point including upgradation of pooling substation of State /Central Transmission Utility (ii) ropeways (iii) railway siding, and (iv) communication infrastructure. The strengthening of existing roads/bridges leading to the project will also be eligible for central assistance under this scheme.

b)   The scheme has a total outlay of Rs.12,461 crore for cumulative generation capacity of about 31350 MW to be implemented from FY 2024-25 to FY 2031-32.

c)    The scheme will be applicable to all Hydro Power Projects of more than 25 MW capacity including the private sector projects which have been allotted on a transparent basis. This scheme will also be applicable to all Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) including Captive/Merchant PSPs, provided that the project has been allotted on a transparent basis. A cumulative PSP capacity of about 15,000 MW would be supported under the scheme.

d)    The projects whose Letter of Award of first major package is issued upto 30.06.2028 would be considered under this scheme.

e)   The limit of Budgetary Support for the cost of Enabling Infrastructure has been rationalized to Rs.1.0 crore/MW for projects up to 200 MW and Rs.200 crore plus Rs.0.75 crore per MW exceeding 200 MW, for projects above 200 MW. For exceptional cases the limit of budgetary support may go upto Rs.1.5 Crore/MW provided sufficient justification exists.

f)     The Budgetary Support for cost of Enabling Infrastructure will be provided after appraisal of the cost of Enabling Infrastructure by the DIB/PIB and approval of the Competent Authority as per extant guidelines. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2053886  (11 Sept. 2024)

PM Modi reminded that India had decided to build its future based on non-fossil fuel sources including hydropower and nuclear energy, as there was dearth of reserves of oil-gas. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/solar-wind-hydro-and-nuclear-to-power-india-in-years-to-come-pm-narendra-modi-101726475019096.html  (16 Sept. 2024)

Arunachal Pradesh Call to save Siang river The civil rights network, International Indigenous Peoples Movement for Self-Determination and Liberation (IPMSDL), has voicesd its support for the residents of Siang District, Northeast India, as they resist the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation’s (NHPC) efforts to monopolize the Siang River for its Upper Siang Hydroelectric Project, a massive undertaking proposed at 11,000 MW. 

– On August 31, a demonstration was held in Siang District, led by farmers, students, and Indigenous communities opposing NHPC’s aggressive surveying efforts. Local residents criticize these actions as lacking proper consultation and consider them a blatant disregard for Indigenous Peoples’ right to free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC), as outlined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), to which the Indian government is a signatory. https://www.counterview.net/2024/09/no-to-risky-11000-mw-hydroelectric.html  (09 Sept. 2024)

Public Hearing of 2220 Mw Oju HEP in Reddi village in Upper Subansiri was held on Sept 11 2024. https://www.uniindia.com/~/arunachal-environmental-public-hearing-held-for-2220-mw-oju-hydro-electric-project/States/news/3281343.html  (11 Sept. 2024)

Arunachal Plans Deputy CM Chowna Mein announced that hydropower projects with a total installed capacity of 12,500 MW will become operational in the next two years. These projects, undertaken by central public sector units (CPSUs) like NHPC, NEEPCO, THDC, and SJVN, will significantly boost the state’s economy, according to a statement issued on Sep 11. Speaking at the Solung festival in Roing, Lower Dibang Valley district on Sep 10, Mein said five projects would start next year, with three each slated for 2026 and 2027. The government is also focused on developing small hydro projects to provide power to isolated communities and defense personnel, he added. https://www.financialexpress.com/business/industry/arunachal-pradesh-to-commission-12500-mw-hydropower-projects-in-2-years-nhpc-sjvn-andnbsp-key-psus-to-execute/3608037/ (11 Sep 2024) [By operations he possibly means construction started, which too is unlikely in the time frame he is talking in.]

The 6^th Steering Committee Meeting to review and monitor the progress of the 13 Hydroelectric Projects allotted to various CPSUs such as NHPC, NEEPCO, SJVN & THDC in Arunachal Pradesh was held at Itanagar on 3^rd Sep 2024 at Chief Minister’s Residential Office. https://www.sarkaritel.com/6th-steering-committee-meeting-at-itanagar/ (4 Sep 2024)

Assam Dibrugarh University researchers patent hydroelectric turbine Two researchers of the Dibrugarh University Institute of Engineering and Technology (DUIET) have patented a hydroelectric turbine designed to generate electricity from shallow water bodies like streams and rivers. Researchers of the mechanical engineering department, Pranjal Sarmah and Siddhartha Sankar Sarmah, got their patent for Hydroelectric Turbine for Shallow Water Bodies earlier this year, a university official said. The patented device, titled ‘Turbine Device for Generating Electricity in Shallow Water Flow’, will go a long way in harnessing renewable energy, he said. “Our turbine is unique because it doesn’t require the construction of extensive dams, making it a cost-effective solution for regions with shallow water bodies,” Sarmah said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/dibrugarh-university-patents-innovative-hydroelectric-turbine-for-shallow-water-bodies/articleshow/113306161.cms  (13 Sept. 2024)

Gujarat Record electricity generation in August In August 2024, hydropower plants achieved a remarkable electricity generation of 1,067.3 million units (MU), a significant increase from the 308.7 MU recorded in July 2024. The Sardar Sarovar Dam alone generated over 800 MU of electricity, with a total of 891 MU coming from both the Sardar Sarovar River Bed Power House (RBPH) and Canal Head Power House (CHPH). The Ukai Dam generated 143.1 MU, while the Kadana Dam produced 30.9 MU. Notably, the Sardar Sarovar RBPH and CHPH power stations contributed 757.1 MU and 134.3 MU, respectively.

From 2019 to 2024, the major dams in the state, including Ukai, Kadana, Panam, and Sardar Sarovar, have averaged an annual generation of 4,600 MU. The year 2022-23 saw a peak with 6,170.456 MU of hydropower, reflecting a 134 per cent increase from the previous year. For the fiscal year 2023-24, the state’s total hydropower generation was 4,584.932 MU. https://theprint.in/economy/gujarat-hydropower-plants-made-a-record-in-electricity-generation-in-august24/2259187/  (09 Sept. 2024)

MoEF Decisions of EAC meeting on River Valley Projects held on Aug 30-31 2024: 1. Bhavali Pump Storage Project (1500MW) at village Jamunde, Tehsil Igatpuri, Dist Nashik and villages Kalbhonde and Kothale, Tehsil Shahpur Dist Thane, Mah JSW Energy PSP Two Ltd: For EC: More info sought.

2. Brutang Irrigation Project at NAYAGARH,ODISHA: For EC: Approved

3. Amalpada Pump Storage Hydro Electric Project (300 MW) by GUJARAT STATE ELECTRICITY CORP Ltd at TAPI,GUJARAT: for TOR: Approved

4. Juni Kayaliwel Pumped Storage Hydro Electric Project (300 MW) by GUJARAT STATE ELECTRICITY CORP Ltd at TAPI, GUJARAT: for TOR: Approved

5. Serula Pump Storage Hydro Electric Project (960 MW) by GUJARAT STATE ELECTRICITY CORP Ltd at TAPI, GUJARAT: For TOR: Approved

6. ATTAPPADY IRRIGATION PROJECT at Thiruvananthapuram, KERALA: For EC: the project proposal involves inter-state issues with Tamil Nadu and the PP has not submitted any information regarding settlement of the inter-state issues. The EAC suggested the PP to submit the inter-state clearance from the CWDT & CWC prior to consideration of proposal for grant of Terms of Reference (TOR). The EAC decided to return the proposal in present form.

7. Bhivpuri Off-Stream Open Loop Pumped Storage Project (1000 MW) by Tata Power Co. Ltd. at RAIGAD, MAH: For EC: Approved

8. Dangari Pump Storage Hydro-electric Project (1400 MW) by CHHATTISGARH STATE POWER GENERATION CO Ltd at JASHPUR, CG: For TOR: Approved

9. Juni Bavli Pump Storage Hydro Electric Project (450 MW) by GUJARAT STATE ELECTRICITY CORP Ltd at TAPI,GUJARAT: For TOR: Approved

10. Satkashi Pumped Storage Hydro Electric Project (330 MW) by GUJARAT STATE ELECTRICITY CORP Ltd at TAPI, GUJARAT: For TOR: Approved.

11. Kandhaura Pump Storage Project (1680 MW) at Village: Sashnai, Taluka: Obra and Villages: Markuri & Cherue Taluka: Robertsganj, Dist: Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh by JSW Energy PSP Six Ltd. by JSW ENERGY PSP SIX LIMITED at SONBHADRA, UP: For Amendment in TOR: Approved. https://parivesh.nic.in/utildoc/101708609_1726046359791.pdf 

Relevant decisions at FAC meeting held on Aug 27 2024: – Diversion of 0.4148 ha of additional Degraded Protected forest land in favour of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd for the Integrated Kashang HEP Stage-II & III (130MW) for some modification in the Project component construction of Silt Flushing Tunnel (SFT) within the jurisdiction of Kinnaur Forest Division, Distt. Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. Approved

– Diversion of 0.87 ha of Protected Forest land for Baggi (42 MW) Hydro Electric Power Project of BBMB in Suket Forest Division, Distt. Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. Approved.

– Diversion of 2250.05 ha (instead of 2272.05 ha) forest land for construction of Morand – Ganjal Irrigation Project in Hoshangabad, Betul, Harda and Khandwa Districts of Madhya Pradesh for Narmada Valley Development Authority: Info required in Feb 2024 meeting not submitted. Asked to submit. https://forestsclearance.nic.in/writereaddata/FAC_Minutes/91112121012191ApprovedMoMACdated27082024forPARIVESH1.pdf 

DAMS

Kaleshwaram Project  NDSA final report to take more time The final report from the NDSA is not anticipated before the end of the year, with the possibility of further delays. The completion of the report hinges on certain investigations that the state irrigation department has been tasked with, involving national agencies specialized in these fields. The Minister for Irrigation, N Uttam Kumar Reddy has urged the department officials to expedite the submission of these investigations to the NDSA.

– Further investigations, including geophysical and geotechnical studies, were suspended as the part of the barrage structures, especially those suspected to be impacted, were submerged under a sheet of water by the first week of July. These studies are expected to resume after the flood levels recede, likely after October, and will take at least three months to complete, extending beyond December. The NDSA can only prepare its final report after receiving the State-sponsored investigations. Consequently, the entire process is unlikely to be completed before the next Rabi crop harvest. https://telanganatoday.com/ndsa-final-report-on-klis-barrages-may-involve-more-delays  (13 Sept. 2024)

Medigadda back in focus A team of experts from the Central Water and Power Research Institute (CWPRS), Pune, arrived at the Medigadda barrage on Sept 12 2024 to study the Godavari river’s flow near the barrage. The CWPRS team, expected to remain at the site for the next two days, is conducting Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) studies to measure the speed and direction of water flow 1 km upstream and 1 km downstream, as requested by the Irrigation and Command Area Development department. “These measurements are part of a series aimed at determining the requirements for finalising repair or rehabilitation plans for the barrage,” sources said. The barrage is currently in free flow condition with all gates open.

– The barrage was originally designed to withstand water flow speeds of up to 6 metres per second, but initial measurements on Sept 11 recorded speeds of around 1.5 metres per second. However, this rate depends on the volume of water flowing through the river, and currently, Medigadda is experiencing around three lakh cusecs, significantly lower than the nearly 20 lakh cusecs it faced at the peak of the 2019 floods, when issues at the barrage first began to emerge. The state government is awaiting a final report from the National Dam Safety Authority before proceeding with final designs and drawings for the repairs and rehabilitation of the Medigadda barrage. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/telangana/medigadda-back-in-focus-with-river-flow-study-1823163 (12 Sept. 2024)

Polavaram Project CWC sounds alerts to AP on backwaters The Central Water Commission (CWC) has called for steps to speed up the joint survey process for assessing the impact of the Polavaram project. Besides Telangana, two other riparian States – Odisha and Chhattisgarh – have also voiced their concerns over the risk of submergence caused by the project at its Full Reservoir Level (FRL).

– Telangana had made it clear that the Polavaram project authority may have to lower the FRL of the project, unless the backwater impact was addressed in earnest, according to a senior officer of the State. At a recent meeting convened by the CWC, the affected States wanted collaborative solutions for addressing the issues involved effectively. Telangana requested the CWC to address these submergence issues by emphasizing the need for joint survey and studies to assess the impact on various streams and areas, including the temple town of Bhadrachalam and the Heavy Water Plant, a vital installation at Manuguru. https://telanganatoday.com/cwc-sounds-alert-to-ap-on-polavaram-backwaters-insists-on-speeding-up-joint-survey  (11 Sept. 2024)

CM promises modernisation of Yeleru irrigation system The NDA govt would take up the responsibility of completing the modernisation of the Yeleru irrigation system in Kakinada district, asserts CM N. Chandrababu Naidu. He said “The Yeleru reservoir has a storage capacity of 24 tmc. Earlier, the irrigation system suffered from drought. Water from the Polavaram irrigation project will be diverted to Purushothapatnam Lift Irrigation Scheme, which, in the future, fills the Yeleru reservoir,” he said. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/andhra-pradesh-chief-minister-chandrababu-naidu-promises-modernisation-of-yeleru-irrigation-system-in-kakinada-district/article68630948.ece  (11 Sept. 2024)

Karnataka Tungabhadra Dam: Experts panel proposes change of all crest gates The Experts Committee on Tungabhadra dam safety has proposed changing all the crest gates of the dam, which would involve a cost of Rs 256 crore. Karnataka has to share 55 % & combined AP 45 % of the expenditure for fixing new gates for the project. The committee examined various aspects and is expected to submit its report by Sept 15 to the Tungabhadra Board.

The expert committee came to a conclusion that all gates should be replaced as they have served the purpose for 70 years. No gates were replaced since the construction of the TB dam, the panel noted. Normally, the life span of such gates is 45 years. The experts committee also proposed an increase to the height of the gates. The replacement of new gates can be taken up during the dry season when there is less water in the dam, it said. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/andhra-pradesh/experts-panel-proposes-change-of-all-crest-gates-of-tungabhadra-dam-1822922  (11 Sept. 2024)

Madhya Pradesh Interesting to see Gond tribals in Mandla remembering their heroes to oppose Basania Dam on Sept 18 2024.

INTERSTATE WATER DISPUTES

Cauvery Water Disputes Use water judiciously: CWRC The Cauvery Water Regulation Committee on Sep 11 asked both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu to utilise Cauvery basin reservoirs water judiciously and conserve it for future needs. In the meeting of the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee chaired by its chairman Vineed Gupta, Karnataka said that as on Sept 11, the cumulative flow at Biligundlu was 192.37 tmc feet as against the stipulated flow of 99.86 tmc feet. 

Tamil Nadu reiterated Karnataka has released water only when its reservoirs are full, Tamil Nadu said. Tamil Nadu requested the CWRC to direct Karnataka to release stipulated flows as per final award of Cauvery Water Dispute Tribunal as modified by the Supreme Court. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/cwrc-tells-karnataka-tamil-nadu-to-use-water-judiciously-3188452  (12 Sept. 2024)

IRRIGATION

Tamil Nadu Cotton, meat waste dumped in irrigation canals Farmers in Vellakovil complain that unidentified people have been dumping cotton waste in irrigation canals, including the PAP main canal, which blocked the flow of water. On Sep 11 night, more than one ton of cotton waste was dumped in the PAP main canal, after which farmers urged PCB, WRD & police depts to take action. P Velusamy, President of PAP Vellakoil Branch Canal Water Conservation Movement, said, “people also dump meat waste in these canals. The WRD, PCB, and Police should prevent this. But they do not care about our complaints.” https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2024/Sep/14/cotton-meat-waste-dumped-in-irrigation-canals-tn-farmers-enraged (14 Sep 2024)

Uttar Pradesh सिंचाई विभाग को किसान नेताओं ने दिया ज्ञापन सोशलिस्ट किसान सभा, पूर्वांचल किसान यूनियन और एनएपीएम के नेताओं ने नहरों में पानी न आने को लेकर सिंचाई विभाग आज़मगढ़ के अधिकारियों को ज्ञापन दिया। नहरों में पानी न आने का प्रमुख कारण बताया कि ज़रूरत का केवल 10-15 प्रतिशत पानी पहुंच रहा है जो काफी नहीं है। किसान नेताओं ने कहा कि सरकारी नीतियों के चलते नहरों को पानी कम दिया जा रहा है। किसान नेताओं ने जारी बयान में कहा कि एक तरफ नहरों में पानी न आने से धान की फसल सूख रही है और दूसरी तरफ सिंचाई विभाग की निष्क्रियता का यह आलम है कि अधीक्षण अभियंता, अधिशासी अभियंता कार्यालय में नहीं मिले और बहुत मुश्किल से मालूम चला कि एक लखनऊ में हैं और दूसरे बीमार हैं। काफी कोशिशों के बाद शारदा सहायक खंड 32 के दो एसडीओ से किसान नेताओं की मुलाकात हुई। https://samajweekly.com/water-in-canals-in-the-district/  (13 Sept. 2024)

URBAN RIVERS

Musi; Hyderabad RFD cost shoots up from ₹ 50k cr to ₹1.5 lakh cr Cost escalations and estimates shooting up are nothing new for major projects, but in the strange case of the Musi Riverfront Development Project, the estimated cost has shot up from Rs.50,000 crore to Rs.1.5 lakh crore even before a master plan is ready and before a consultant has been appointed! https://telanganatoday.com/no-master-plan-no-consultant-but-river-musi-project-cost-shoots-up-from-rs-50k-cr-to-rs-1-5-lakh-cr  (20 July 2024) The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) has set up 4 STPs as part of the department’s STP project. Six more will be installed by the end of this month said HMWSSB MD Ashok Reddy. https://www.siasat.com/hyderabad-hmwssb-completes-installing-6-stps-4-more-to-be-ready-3094525/  (11 Sept. 2024)

HYDRA’s bulldozers ready to raze encroachments on river bed  According to HYDRA, notices have been issued to the occupants along the Musi near the Chaderghat and Musarambagh areas. The demolition process is likely to start in the coming week. The government is actively working on alternative solutions to provide double-bedroom houses to the deserving victims. Additionally, HYDRA has presented an extensive report detailing encroachments to the authorities. Revenue officials have discovered that there are over 10,000 residences alongside the river. https://www.thehansindia.com/telangana/hydras-bulldozers-ready-to-raze-encroachments-on-musi-river-bed-906151  (12 Sept. 2024)

2BHK houses promised to residents along Musi Amid demolitions carried out by the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection Agency (HYDRA) in the city, CM A Revanth Reddy on Wednesday, September 11 promised 2BHK houses to residents along the Musi River. Speaking during the SI passing-out parade at the Telangana Police Academy, Revanth Reddy stated that 11,000 poor residents alongside the Musi River will receive 2BHK houses. Once implemented, this initiative will not only clear the FTL and buffer zones of the river but also ensure that residents alongside the Musi will not have to worry about heavy rains each monsoon season. During the monsoon season, residents face threats as the river swells due to the release of water from upstream following heavy rains in Hyderabad. https://www.siasat.com/amid-hydra-demolitions-in-hyderabad-2bhk-houses-promised-to-residents-along-musi-3094216/  (11 Sept. 2024) By stating that 2BHK houses will be constructed for the 11,000-odd people living along the banks of the Musi river, CM A Revanth Reddy has indicated that he will soon give his nod to HYDRAA to clear illegal constructions in the 50-metre buffer zone of the river. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2024/Sep/12/telangana-hydraa-may-get-nod-to-clear-musi-of-encroachments  (12 Sept. 2024)

Hussain Sagar loses over Ganesh idol immersions Official machinery plays hide and seek, while all cranes are being moved to People’s Plaza for immersion, with several questions remaining unanswered. https://www.siasat.com/hyderabad-faith-wins-hussain-sagar-loses-ovee-ganesh-idol-immersions-3093821/  (11 Sept. 2024)

Naag; Nagpur Pollution abatement project: Govt approves consultant Tata Consulting Engineers Ltd. that has formed joint venture with NJS Engineers India Pvt Ltd., Mumbai; CTI Engineering International Co. Ltd., Japan, and EPTISA Servicios de Ingenireria, Bengaluru are among four shortlisted companies selected for Naag River Pollution Abatement Project by the National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD). NRCD conveyed the approval to Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) on September 3. The Request for Proposal was issued to the four shortlisted consultants in the month of January 2024. Only two agencies participated in the discussion and after technical evaluation the same was submitted to NRCD in March 2024.

Union Budget had allocated ₹500 cr for Naag River project. Now a formal agreement remains to be inked between Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), NCRD and Tata led JV to formally start the much-delayed work on pollution abatement and restore the river form which the city got its identity. The job of the Project Management Consultant (PMC) is to carry of detailed survey, design of sewerage network in Northern and Central zones of the city prior to calling of tender for laying of new trunk lines.

The consultant would be responsible to check if the proposed works are in sync with works being carried out under AMRUT 2.0 in the Southern Zone. Further the project also involved construction of 3 STPs at Shankar Nagar, Mor Bhavan and Martin Nagar with capacity to treatment 72 MLD. Due to administrative delays the cost of project has reached ₹2,117.54 cr from original ₹241.1 cr wherein Central Govt contribution is 60 per cent, State Government 25 per cent and NMC 5 per cent. NMC will be hit hard as its revenue base is very limited and rising project cost puts heavy burden on resources. https://www.thehitavada.com/Encyc/2024/9/13/Naag-River-Pollution-Abatement-Project.html  (13 Sept. 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. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/mpcb-notice-to-bharat-forge-over-effluent-flowing-into-river/articleshow/109931402.cms  (08 May 2024)

Indrayani; Pune NGT seeks fresh affidavits on waste release into Indrayani The NGT bench in Pune has directed PMRDA and the state pollution control board to file fresh affidavits within two weeks on the issue of discharge of industrial effluents into Indrayani river. The bench noted on Sep 3 that the information provided to it earlier by Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) appeared “contrary” to the information given by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB).

MPCB submitted a report to NGT on May 24 stating that of the total 168.2 MLD of domestic sewage generated by seven civic bodies and nagar panchayats along the river stretch, 93.9 MLD has been treated. Of the remaining, untreated domestic effluent quantity is 67.3 MLD, and 62.65 MLD of this is released into Indrayani River. Pimpri Chinchwad accounts for 32.68 MLD of this discharge. MPCB report identified discharge of domestic effluent through local nullahs under the civic bodies and panchayats in absence of proper drainage network, inadequate treatment of domestic effluent from residential areas, inability of PCMC’s existing 14 STPs commissioned before 2013 to achieve BOD-10 mg/1 standards, among key factors causing river pollution. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/ngt-directs-pmrda-and-mpcb-to-submit-fresh-affidavits-on-waste-release-into-indrayani-river/articleshow/113108111.cms  (06 Sept. 2024)

Pune Campaign to make Ganpati festival eco-friendly The Punaravartan campaign, an initiative of the eCoexist Foundation and organised by a collective of 16 organisations, aims to collect and recycle clay after the immersion of Ganesh idols. It encourages devotees to buy natural clay idols as opposed to Plaster of Paris, which is banned, requests citizens to hold home immersions of the idols, and then collect the clay and return it to the artisans for reuse. This festive season, the campaign has entered its fifth year in Pune.

In the past few years, 20,000 kg of clay has been collected and returned for free each year. This year, the campaign aims to collect 50 tonnes of clay and has readied 60 collection centres across Pune, hosted by the Poornam Ecovision Foundation. Volunteers will stand at these centres to receive the clay on Sep 15 & Sep 22, between 10 am to 1 pm. https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/pune-youngsters-joined-campaign-ganpati-festival-eco-friendly-9562194/  (11 Sept. 2024)

Sabarmati; Ahmedabad Delay in Motera STP project turns river into toxic channel The civic body’s failure to build a 100 MLD STP in Motera in the past five years has resulted in a giant cesspool forming near the Sabarmati riverfront. The stench from the stagnant pool makes residents miserable. Untreated waste from nearby residential areas, commercial units, and slums drains into an open ravine, which even finds its way into the Sabarmati through a drain.

The 100 MLD STP planned next to the Motera stadium remains unbuilt even though a 40,000 sq m plot was allotted for the project in 2019. The city generates 1,693 MLD of sewage daily, but the AMC’s 14 treatment plants have a combined capacity of only 1,252 MLD. Even this limited capacity is underutilized, as only 1080 MLD is treated daily. This results in 613 MLD of raw sewage being bypassed and dumped directly into the Sabarmati, exacerbating pollution in the river. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/delay-in-motera-stp-project-turns-river-into-toxic-channel/articleshow/110129541.cms  (15 May 2024)

Surat No immersion in natural water bodies: CP Amid the excitement and preparations for the Ganesha festival, which begins on Saturday, the Surat police commissioner has issued a notification that has dampened the spirit of many residents and organizers. The notification has put in place a set of strict guidelines for the conduct of the festival. The notification prohibits the immersion of idols in natural water sources such as rivers, ponds, and canals. This ban applies to all types of idols, including those made of clay, PoP, and fibre.

The police chief said that this decision was made to protect the environment from pollution caused by the toxic materials used in making the idols. The notification, which will be in effect from Sep 7 to Sep 20, also strictly prohibits the pandal organizers from playing obscene songs during the festival. The notification also bans speeches that might hurt religious sentiments. The police commissioner emphasized the importance of respecting cultural and religious diversity in the city. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/surat/no-immersion-in-natural-water-bodies-cp/articleshow/113136930.cms (7 Sep 2024)

RIVERS

Study Monsoon decline doomed Indus civilization A study by researchers at Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) has revealed that an interplay of climate factors, strikingly similar to those affecting modern-day monsoons, likely led to the collapse of the Indus Valley civilisation over 4,000 years ago through long droughts. Analysing ancient cave formations (speleothems) from Gupteswar and Kadapa caves in south India, the study found how reduced solar radiation, El Nino, southward migration of Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), and a negative phase of Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) collectively weakened the monsoon, triggering the downfall of the ancient civilisation. The study has been published in Quaternary International journal.

– Indus Valley civilisation included major urban centres like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, along with settlements such as Dholavira, Lothal, and Rakhigarhi. The research team analysed cave deposits in peninsular India, uncovering a 7,000-year climate record that provided insights into the region’s past climate variations.

– The study found that around 4,200 years ago, ITCZ — a critical weather system often described as a “rain belt” — shifted southward, depriving the Indus region of crucial rainfall. Simultaneously, a negative phase of the IOD cooled the eastern Indian Ocean, further weakening the monsoon by reducing moisture transport to the subcontinent. Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is a climate pattern affecting the Indian Ocean. These factors, combined with a period of reduced solar radiation and increased El Niño events, led to prolonged droughts in the Indus Valley. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/study-monsoon-decline-doomed-indus-civilisation/articleshow/113239577.cms  (11 Sept. 2024)

GODAVARI Study Oil, natural gas reserves in Godavari river basin land: BSIP Scientists at the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences have hinted at the probability of oil and natural gas reserves in the terrestrial sequence (land area today which was river dominated in the past) of the Godavari River basin. These sequences are commonly found in the marine sequence, but it is challenging to trace their availability in the terrestrial sequence.

The scientists while conducting the analysis found that fluctuating sea level causes deposition of organic matter in between the terrestrial sequences which got converted to hydrocarbon at a required temperature. Another scientist, Divya Mishra, said that the study is a preliminary attempt to find oil and natural gases in the terrestrial sequence of the Godavari River basin. “We have identified the probable promising sites for hydrocarbon potential, especially shale gas,” Mishra said. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/lucknow-news/oil-natural-gas-reserves-in-godavari-river-basin-land-bsip-101726326482172.html  (14 Sept. 2024)

Report Govt mandates high-tensile stainless steel in bridge construction The highways ministry had introduced new specifications for reinforced and stainless steel use in critical infrastructure projects, including roads, highways, and bridges, in 2020. However, adherence to these conditions has been inconsistent, contributing to the structural failures observed in some bridges. Previously, the use of stainless steel was limited to bridge construction within 15 km of the sea or creeks, classified as extreme environment zones. The ministry now plans to reassess and expand these environmental criteria to better reflect the evolving climate patterns affecting infrastructure across the country. https://www.livemint.com/industry/bridge-collapse-climate-change-stainless-steel-construction-highways-ministry-morth-corrosion-infrastructure-development/amp-11725952879551.html  (10 Sept. 2024)

The shock of crumbling infrastructure A report by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation reveals that 431 infrastructure development projects, each with investments of ₹150 crore or more, suffered a cost overrun of ₹4.82 lakh crore, as of Dec 2023. Moreover, the percentage of delayed projects hit a three-year low in March this year. Out of 779 projects delayed, 36% were running behind schedule for a period between 25 to 60 months, 26% for one to 12 months, 23% for 13 to 24 months, and 15% for over 60 months averaging a 3-year delay. https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-shock-of-crumbling-infrastructure-and-the-solution/article68639476.ece  (14 Sept. 2024)

Yettinahole Project Not all it was made out to be EDIT in Deccan Herald on Sept 10 2024 on Yettinahole project confirms what SANDRP said in DRP NB Lead story on Sept 9.

– A near-tripling of cost within a dozen years is not a creeping rise in cost but an exploding one, suggesting that something is not quite right somewhere. With the completion of Stage 1, water will flow a distance of 31 km and from there will temporarily be diverted to the Vani Vilas Sagar Valley. In Stage 2, a 250-km gravity canal and feeder canals of several hundred km will be constructed to fill over 500 tanks in the parched districts.

If completed as per plan, the project may well provide succour to at least some of the parched districts, but then the question is, does that justify the huge cost? Does the project justify the huge environmental and ecological damage? Couldn’t the govt have thought of more viable options? There is now a proposal to bring Sharavati river water from Shivamogga to Bengaluru, again at a high ecological and financial cost. For how long will we bring water from hundreds of kms away to quench the thirst of our cities? Has the govnt taken into account the visible and forecast patterns of rainfall and water availability across the state in undertaking such projects? The govt does not seem to have woken up to the perils of climate change even after catastrophes like the Wayanad landslide. https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/editorial/yettinahole-not-all-it-was-made-out-to-be-3183433 (10 Sep 2024)

The project, which is being implemented at an estimated cost of ₹23,251 crore, has been controversial since its inception. https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/steering-through-troubled-waters-in-karnataka/article68625830.ece  (11 Sept. 2024)

According to environmentalist Ananth Hegde Ashisara, the idea of bringing water from rivers of Western Ghats to faraway Bengaluru was a foolish one. He was referring to idea of bringing water from River Sharavathi, which would prove detrimental to Sharavathi valley. He said efforts are being made to divert water from Aghnashini to Sharavathi and constructing an underground HEP in Sharavathi basin. He also warned people of Bedthi valley that they should be beware of plan to link Varada and Bedthi rivers in Haveri district.

Meghalaya Citizens’ apathy frustrates efforts to clean Wahumkhrah It has been a sheer frustrating experience for an NGO, Operation Clean-up, which has been volunteering for the past few years to clean up the messy Wahumkhrah river. Over the past few years each time the OCU volunteers returned after laboriously clearing up the mountains of the solid waste, only to find themselves back to square one. The river wears a clean spruced up looks each time after the cleaning is completed. But this is a short-lived jubilation. The habitual disposal of wastes by the residents invariably makes the effort redundant. https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/09/09/citizens-apathy-frustrates-ngos-bid-to-clean-up-messy-wahumkhrah/  (09 Sept. 2024)

Jammu & Kashmir NGT imposes ₹10 K cost upon DC The applicant Raja Muzaffar Bhat has raised the issue of unscientific dumping and improper management of solid waste and bio-medical waste in the area falling between Sher-e-Kashmir Bridge and the confluence of Poonch River and Belar Nullah near Poonch town. The NGT vide its order dated March 13, 2024, had taken note of the fact that the JKPCC had imposed Environmental Compensation of Rs 81 lakh upon the Municipal Council, Poonch for open and unscientific dumping and disposal of solid waste on the bank of Suran River near Sher-e-Kashmir Bridge at Poonch.

“The order dated May 24, 2024, indicates that J&K Pollution Control Committee had levied Environmental Compensation for violation up to January 31, 2024 therefore for the subsequent violation by the Municipal Council Poonch, the requisite action to impose the Environmental Compensation is required to be taken by JJKPCC”, the NGT said. The Tribunal has directed the JKPCC, Municipal Council Poonch and Deputy Commissioner Poonch to file a fresh report within six weeks. https://www.dailyexcelsior.com/ngt-imposes-rs-10000-cost-upon-dc/  (12 Sept. 2024)

Himachal Pradesh Baddi unit power supply cut for releasing effluents into nullah Two weeks after the Dabur India’s shampoo manufacturing unit at Billanwali village in Baddi was found discharging industrial effluents into a nullah, the State (PCB) has ordered disconnection of its power supply. “In its orders issued last evening by the board’s chairman, the unit has been directed not to use alternative sources of energy like diesel-run generator sets while further stating that non-compliance of the orders can attract a penalty of Rs 10,000 and imprisonment up to seven years,” said Chief Engineer, State Pollution Control Board, Baddi, Praveen Gupta.

In view of the delay in taking prompt action against the erring units, several such cases have come to fore during the current monsoon. A nullah near a gas plant in Baddi had transformed into dark blue due to discharge of untreated effluents into it on August 29 by some unit. A tractor-trailer was caught red-handed dumping effluents from a biopharmaceutical company into the Ratta river at Bhud village on Sep 6. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/baddi-unit-power-supply-cut-for-releasing-effluents-into-nullah/  (13 Sept. 2024)

Punjab 47% posts in PPCB lying vacant A total of 47.4% of the sanctioned posts in the technical and administrative sections of the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) have been lying vacant for the last many years, with their number being 309 out of 652. Approval of the govt for recruitment, staffing pattern, roster of reservation, upgradation of posts, change in recruitment policy, court cases and no eligible candidates have been cited as the main reasons for this.

The facts came to fore after a status report was submitted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to the NGT pertaining to directions by the tribunal in a case taken up suo motu. The CPCB, according to affidavits filed by 28 state boards and eight pollution committees, submitted the report on Sep 5 and uploaded on NGT portal on Sep 11.

An affidavit filed by PPCB member secretary G S Majithia said that out of 309 posts lying vacant from A, B, C, D categories, 45 were of assistant environmental engineers, with the oldest vacancy being since 2010. Seven posts of assistant scientific officers have been lying vacant and 29 of junior environmental engineers, with the oldest since 2001. Posts of 11 junior scientific officers have been vacant since Feb 7, 1989, while that of a programmer since Feb 2, 1999. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/47-posts-in-states-pollution-control-board-lying-vacant/articleshow/113272932.cms  (12 Sept. 2024)

WRD finds over 1k points polluting water bodies Punjab water resources department has identified 1,223 points over drains, canals and rivers that are polluting water bodies across the state’s 23 districts. A list of the polluters, including village panchayats, municipal councils and other organisations, has been forwarded to officials in a letter recently written by the department’s principal secretary to DCs and they have been asked to take appropriate action and to take into consideration that the NGT is monitoring the issue on a regular basis.

Amritsar district tops the list with 390 pollution points followed by Sangrur at 159, Jalandhar 82, Patiala 66, Barnala 59 and Malerkotla 51, according to the department. A total of 46 points each have been found in Mansa and SAS Nagar, 44 each in Bathinda and Kapurthala, said the department. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/punjab-identifies-over-1200-pollution-points-threatening-water-bodies/articleshow/113376873.cms  (16 Sept. 2024)

YAMUNA Delhi CBI seizes ₹ 2.3 cr cash from DPCC official’s home CBI on Sep 9 raided the residence of Mohammad Arif, a senior environmental engineer at the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), and seized Rs 2.39 crore cash. Arif and Kishlaya Sharan Singh, the son of a middleman, were arrested for exchanging a bribe of Rs 91,500. The CBI registered the case on September 8 against Arif and four others, including a middleman, his son, a private firm proprietor, along with other unknown persons. The FIR alleged that Arif was involved in corrupt practices, accepting bribes in exchange for renewing DPCC approvals for private firms. The middleman facilitated these bribes, collecting money from firms and delivering it to Arif regularly. https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/cbi-seizes-crore-corruption-case-involving-delhi-pollution-board-senior-engineer-2596539-2024-09-09  (09 Sept. 2024)

Pollution in drains rises despite rain According to reports of DPCC, chemical oxygen demand (COD) and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) have spiked in several drains. According to the report, the Najafgarh drain, one of the main polluters, recorded a BOD level of 54mg/l, against the minimum standard of 30 mg/l. Last year in Aug, the same drain had recorded lesser BOD at 42 mg/ litres. That was then (Aug 2023) the lowest since Feb 2021. Apart from the Najafgarh drain, the Maharani Bagh Drain and SEN Nursing Home Drain had a BOD of 70mg/l; Sarita Vihar and Sahibabad drain had a BOD of 90mg/l, while Shahdara drain had a BOD level of whooping 105 mg/l.

The report on samples collected on Aug 6 showed that apart from BOD, some drains failed to comply with norms related to total suspended solids (TSS) and COD. As most drains did not meet water quality parameters, the report suggested that more effort need to be made to control the flow of sewage into these drains. Only one drain – Magazine Road drain – had compliant readings for BOD in Aug. Earlier this month, another DPCC assessment of river quality too found that the Yamuna did not show any significant progress in its overall state, despite the presence of rain. The report rather showed that at certain sections had become more contaminated compared to the previous months. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/pollution-in-drains-rises-despite-rain/articleshow/113269394.cms  (11 Sept. 2024)

Noida Despite ban idols still immersed in Hindon,Yamuna Several residents immersed idols in the Yamuna on Wednesday as a stretch of the riverbank in Sector 94 was left unsecured. In Ghaziabad, too, devotees broke barricades to immerse idols in the Hindon river. A 2015 NGT order prohibits throwing any puja material, including idols, flowers, havan samagri, food grain and oil, into the Yamuna, except at the designated sites. People flouting the directive can be fined Rs 5,000. This, however, did not stop devotees.

Previously, Noida Authority has set up two makeshift ponds in sectors 116 and 120, with five more in the works, for such purposes. Similarly, in Ghaziabad, makeshift ponds have been made in Ganganagar Ghat in Sahibabad, and in Muradnagar. Noida DM Manish Kumar Verma said, “Makeshift ponds arrangements have been made by the authority as idol immersion in Yamuna is strictly not allowed. I have asked the official to check the location and take necessary action on the people who are doing so.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/ngt-ban-since-2015-but-idols-still-immersed-in-hindon-and-yamuna/articleshow/113302580.cms  (13 Sept. 2024)

Opinion बाढ़, फैलाव और अविरलता से ही निर्मल होगी दिल्ली में यमुना (Pankaj Chaturvedi) https://indiaclimatechange.com/yamuna-in-delhi-will-be-purified-only-by-flood-expansion-and-continuity/  (10 Sept. 2024)

RIVERS BIODIVERSITY

Vadodara Gulping sewage daily, but crocodiles as fit as a fiddle A two-year extensive study reveal the extraordinary resilience to the filthy environment that crocodiles in Vadodara have adapted to. The study was done by Shreya Kalaria, a bioscientist, and published in the International Journal of Scientific Research in Biological Sciences. Crocodiles’ well-being is determined by the health of their gut. “The reptiles are perfectly healthy despite staying in such polluted water. Their scats showed that they don’t suffer from any infection and their gut is in good health. It’s surprising and shows how easily the reptiles have adapted to the dirty water,” Kalaria told TOI. The study concluded that the crocodiles have developed potent antimicrobial abilities in their immune system or gut microbiome and hence they are successfully fighting off the bacteria and living a healthy life in the heavily polluted river.

There are at least 300 crocodiles in the 22 km urban stretch of Vishwamitri that bisects the city. Apart from the regular sewage waste, even toxic waste was dumped in the river way in 2020 and the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) had filed a police complaint against five. In the past, industrial effluents too had made their way into the river. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vadodara/crocodiles-in-vadodaras-vishwamitri-adapt-to-polluted-environment/articleshow/110098189.cms  (14 May 2024)

Arunachal Pradesh Bird species Hainan bluefly-catcher (Cyornis hainanus) was documented near Jairampur in Changlang district for the first time in India. https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2024/09/11/hainan-blue-flycatcher-spotted-for-first-time-in-india/  (11 Sept. 2024)

FISH, FISHERIES, FISHERFOLKS

Report State, Cities fast adopting fish as mascots The first ever official compendium of national and state fish — “State Fishes and Aquatic Animals of India 2024”, launched in Delhi on Sept 11, tells you that 22 of India’s 36 states and UTs now have officially designated state fish and the trend of fish as city mascots is catching up. Gujatar’s seven municipal corporations have adopted the Whale shark as their mascot and Guwahati city recently declared the Ganges River dolphin — national aquatic animal — as its mascot. The publication, piloted by the National Fisheries Development Board, to coincide with the fourth anniversary of the Centre’s flagship “Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana”, documents aquatic organisms’ habitat, distribution, IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species) red list status and conservation trends. It traces the conservation history of India’s national aquatic animal — the Ganges River Dolphin — to the 3rd century BCE and cites its listing as a protected species in the Edicts of King Asoka. The compendium — a treat for marine researchers — also details the Ganges River dolphin’s unique behaviour tactics.

– Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir share the Himalayan mahseer as their state fish. Famous for its athleticism, the mahseer is better known as the “tiger of the rivers”. Haryana’s designated state fish is the Black rohu, a popular food and game fish and Punjab’s official aquatic animal is the Indus river dolphin, marked endangered on the IUCN red list. The two dolphins are separated by the number of teeth they have. In all, Indian waters hold 200 fish species. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2053756  (11 Sept. 2024)

Uttar Pradesh आगरा: कीठम झील में अचानक मरने लगीं मछलियां वर्ल्ड वेटलैंड डे पर शहर के एकमात्र वेटलैंड सूर सरोवर पक्षी अभ्यारण्य कीठम में सैकड़ों मछलियां मरी पाई गईं। इसकी वजह प्रदूषण को माना जा रहा है। वन विभाग ने प्रकरण में सिंचाई विभाग और प्रदूषण नियंत्रण विभाग को पत्र लिखा है।

कीठम झील में आगरा नहर और लोअर कैनाल की ओर सिंचाई विभाग ने सेल्यूस गेट लगा रखे हैं। ये गेट कीठम झील में पानी का स्तर स्थिर रखने के लिए प्रयोग किए जाते हैं। कीठम में पक्षियों की रिहाइश के लिए 18 फुट पानी का स्तर निर्धारित है। इससे अधिक पानी होने पर ये टापू डूब जाते हैं। बीते दिनों नहर की ओर वाले गेट टूट गए, पानी का स्तर बरकरार रखने के लिए सिंचाई विभाग ने बोरे डालकर कामचलाऊ इंतजाम कर दिया। जिसके चलते प्रदूषित पानी लगातार कीठम में आ रहा है। विभाग ने इसकी लिखित सूचना सिंचाई विभाग को दी लेकिन अब तक कोई ठोस इंतजाम नहीं किए गए। नतीजा शुक्रवार को मछलियों के मरने के रूप में सामने आया। यमुना का प्रदूषित पानी आने से झील के पानी में प्रदूषण का स्तर बढ़ गया। जिससे सैकड़ों मछलियां मर गईं। शुक्रवार (Feb. 02) को मछलियों की मौत के बाद विभागीय वार्डन और रेंजर लगातार नजर बनाए हैं। https://www.amarujala.com/uttar-pradesh/agra/agra-fish-suddenly-started-dying-in-keetham-lake-this-is-the-reason-given-2024-02-03  (03 Feb. 2024) इस पूरे मामले पर डीएफओ आगरा आरुषि मिश्रा ने बताया करीब 15 दिन पहले हमने देखा कि कीठम में पानी बहुत गंदा आ रहा था. जिसमें झाग उठा रहा था, जिस नहर से हमारे पास पानी आता है उस नहर को देखा गया तो उस नहर में छाग उठ रहे थे. इतना कि अगल-बगल के जो उसके पेड़ थे वह भी झुलसे हुए थे, तो साफ तोर से पता चला कि गंदा पानी आ रहा है जिससे मछलियों की मौत हुई. https://www.abplive.com/states/up-uk/agra-keetham-lake-hundreds-of-fish-died-due-polluted-water-pollution-control-board-took-water-samples-ann-2604301  (05 Feb. 2024)

SAND MINING

Report Demand for sand leaves behind devastating toll  https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/bloodied-clothes-dead-bodies-demand-for-sand-leaves-behind-devastating-toll/articleshow/113182652.cms  (09 Sept. 2024)

Uttarakhand गौला पुल की सड़क गायब, बह गया करोड़ों का काम चोरगलिया रोड रेलवे क्रासिंग के पास बने गौला पुल की सड़क (एप्रोच मार्ग) शनिवार (Sept. 14) सुबह सात बजे गायब हो गई। 15 फीट लंबी और करीब 20 फीट चौड़ हिस्सा सिरे से ही पानी में समा गया। 19 अक्टूबर 2021 को आई आपदा के दौरान भी पुल का यही हाल हुआ था। इसके बाद करोड़ों रुपये खर्च कर ऊपर से लेकर नीचे नदी के तल तक मरम्मत की गई थी। पत्थरों की सुरक्षा दीवार का पूरा जाल बिछाया गया था, मगर शुक्रवार (Sept. 13) को सुरक्षा दीवार का बड़ा हिस्सा भी गायब नजर आया। https://www.jagran.com/uttarakhand/nainital-haldwani-gaula-bridge-approach-road-collapses-again-23797308.html  (15 Sept. 2024)  

भारी बारिश से गौला पुल की एप्रोच रोड धंसी, नदी में समाया आधा से ज्यादा हिस्सा https://www.amarujala.com/uttarakhand/nainital/uttarakhand-haldwani-news-approach-road-of-gaula-bridge-collapsed-due-to-heavy-rainfall-2024-09-15 (15 Sep 2024)

Rajasthan Tender extended as contractors shun govt’s sand mining works Rajasthan State Mines and Minerals Limited (RSMML) is struggling to supply sand due to a lack of contractors willing to undertake loading and transporting of sand from riverbeds. A senior official said RSMML had issued a tender on July 15 for loading and unloading operations in the sand mining blocks of Bhilwara, but no contractor expressed interest, resulting in an extension of the tender deadline to Sept 26. “As this is the first time we are conducting this exercise, contractors are apprehensive. We are receiving inquiries, and our efforts are focused on addressing their concerns. We remain optimistic that there will be a good number of participants next time,” the official said. Rajasthan govt recently opened bids for sand mining plots smaller than 100 hectares.

As RSMML lacks resources to manage operations, a tender was issued to outsource tasks such as transporting sand from the riverbed to stockpiles and loading it onto vehicles. A contractor explained the reason why the tender was not taken up. “Following Supreme Court and CEC orders, the state govt banned leaseholders from directly excavating sand from riverbeds. The govt has now set a fixed price for sand (bajri), stipulating it cannot be sold for more than four times the royalty amount. This means sand must be sold for approximately Rs 250. However, with loading and unloading costs around Rs 200, and Rs 50 paid as royalty, the work results in losses rather than profits.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/tender-extended-as-contractors-shun-govts-sand-mining-works/articleshow/113273082.cms  (12 Sept. 2024)

Haryana Notified Aravali forest portion sold for mining In the 24 hours that the Aravali tracts of Rajawas in  Mahendergarh were notified as ‘protected forest’ by one Haryana govt department, one-fourth of this land happened to be auctioned off by the mining department. On July 20, 2023, the forest department issued a notification to cover 506 acres of Aravalis in Rajawas village under the Forest (Conservation) Act. This portion of the hills is part of the Aravalis that are to be conserved and revived as a swap to make up for the loss of a million trees in Great Nicobar, where a mega infrastructure project is under way.

According to rules, mining in a non-forest area can only be carried out if it is approved by the Rajawas panchayat as the land parcel is owned by the village. If it is forest land – i.e. covered under FCA – the mining department will need not just the panchayat’s consent but also clearance from the forest department. The agency that is supposed to facilitate consent from the panchayat for mining is Haryana State Pollution Control Board. Asked how forest land was auctioned for mining, HSPCB regional officer for Mahendergarh Krishna Kumar said the board had followed “due process”.

Locals, who had been pushing the govt to conserve the Aravalis near Rajawas long before the FCA notification, had thought that the protected forest tag would ease their worries. Former sarpanch Artar Singh said the village has lived in harmony with wildlife over the years because there was ample space to co-exist. The Aravali tracts notified as protected forest are spread over Gurgaon, Nuh, Rewari, Mahendergarh and Charkhi Dadri.Experts told TOI mining could not begin in Rajawas till forest status was denotified. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/notified-aravali-forest-portion-sold-for-mining/articleshow/113359785.cms  (15 Sept. 2024)

Rural communities unite against Aravalli mining Weeks after the Haryana government proposed to permit stone mining in the Aravalli hills, more than 200 residents from Rajawas village in south Haryana gathered at Rajawas in Mahendragarh district on Sunday to protest against this decision. Despite the downpour, people of all ages, including youth, women and elders, assembled to voice their opposition to the proposed project which includes plans for setting up three stone crushers in the region.

-The ecological damage from mining goes beyond the destruction of natural landscapes. “Blasting and drilling activities damage water aquifers beneath the Aravalli hills. Groundwater levels in several villages in South Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat have plummeted to over 2,000 feet, directly affecting drinking water availability and agriculture,” said Kailash Meena, an environmental activist from Rajasthan.

-Chemicals used in blasting penetrate deep into the soil, contaminating groundwater and causing waterborne diseases. Dust generated by stone crushers adds to the environmental hazard, leading to a rise in respiratory illnesses like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and silicosis — a fatal lung disease that has devastated rural communities in the Aravalli region. The heavy layer of dust also affects agricultural productivity, with crops coated in a fine layer of stone particles, rendering them unfit for consumption or sale. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/gurugram-news/rural-communities-in-south-haryana-unite-against-aravalli-mining-101725820338500.html  (09 Sept. 2024)

WETLANDS, LAKES, WATER BODIES

Rajasthan First ‘teal carbon’ study bets on wetlands to address climate change threats India’s first study on ‘teal carbon’, undertaken at Keoladeo National Park (KNP) in Bharatpur district, has highlighted the significance of wetland conservation to address the challenges of climate adaptation and resilience. The pilot project sought to develop holistic nature-based solutions to address climate change. The concept of teal carbon is a recent addition to the environmental science pertaining to organic carbon in inland fresh wetlands. The study, carried out in the form of the KNP’s global review, has depicted the potential of teal carbon as a tool to mitigate climate change if the anthropogenic pollution in the wetlands can be controlled. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/indias-first-teal-carbon-study-bets-on-wetlands-to-address-the-challenges-of-climate-adaptation-and-resilience/article68618586.ece  (09 Sept. 2024)

बिहार  कावर झील की जमीन के सर्वे पर विवाद, किसानों ने खोला मोर्चा बेगूसराय जिले कीकी कावर झील 16 गांव के कई किसानों और मछुआरे की आजीविका का स्रोत रही है। बिहार राज्य प्रदूषण नियंत्रण बोर्ड के वैज्ञानिक अशोक घोष की रिसर्च के मुताबिक 1984 में लगभग 6,786 हेक्टेयर में फैली हुई कावर झील 2012 तक घटकर 2,032 हेक्टेयर रह गई है। वहीं दिल्ली स्थित जामिया मिलिया इस्लामिया के शोधकर्ता मोहम्मद नवाजजोहा के मुताबिक झील में केवल 89 हेक्टेयर क्षेत्र में ही पानी है। झील के धीरे-धीरे लुप्त होने की वजह से किसानों और मछुआरे के बीच लगातार संघर्ष होता रहा है। मछुआरेे झील की सुरक्षा करना चाहते हैं क्योंकि यह उनकी आजीविका का स्रोत है, जबकि किसान इसके आसपास की भूमि का उपयोग कृषि के लिए करना चाहते हैं।

बिहार में जमीन सर्वे का काम जारी है। सरकार का मकसद हैं कि जमीन विवाद को हमेशा के लिए बिहार में खत्म किया जाए। इसके लिए असली जमीन मालिकों को उनके जमीन का रिकॉर्ड मुहैया कराया जाए और मठ-मंदिरों के साथ बिहार सरकार की जमीन का भी पता लगाया जाए। जिसके बाद राज्य के कई जगहों पर जमीन विवाद का मामला सामने आया है। इसी सिलसिले में कावर झील की जमीन को वन विभाग के नाम पर करने की खबर के बाद किसानों का समूह लगातार इसका विरोध कर रहा है। https://hindi.downtoearth.org.in/river/bihar-dispute-over-survey-of-kawar-lake-land-farmers-open-front  (10 Sept. 2024)

Uttar Pradesh ईको सेंसिटिव जोन शून्य करना कीठम के लिए घातक मुख्यमंत्री की अध्यक्षता वाली उत्तर प्रदेश राज्य वन्य जीव परिषद द्वारा सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार (कीठम) के ईको सेंसिटिव जोन को शून्य किमी घोषित करने के निर्णय का विरोध शहर में शुरू हो गया है. पर्यावरण प्रेमियों ने रविवार शाम यमुना किनारा रोड स्थित यमुना आरती स्थल पर प्रदर्शन करते हुए इस निर्णय को पक्षी विहार के लिए घातक बताया.

सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार के क्षेत्रफल के पुनर्निर्धारण से संबंधित पर्यावरण कार्यकर्ता डॉ। शरद गुप्ता की याचिका राष्ट्रीय हरित अधिकरण (एनजीटी) में विचाराधीन है। इसकी अधिसूचना को राज्य सरकार ने समय मांगा है। पक्षी विहार के क्षेत्रफल की अधिसूचना होने के बाद ही ईको सेंसिटिव जोन का निर्धारण हो सकता है। मामले में अगली सुनवाई जनवरी में प्रस्तावित है। डॉ। शरद की याचिका पर सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने राज्य सरकार को पक्षी विहार का क्षेत्रफल 403 हेक्टेयर से बढ़ाकर 799 हेक्टेयर करने के निर्देश दिए थे। राज्य सरकार द्वारा कोई कदम नहीं उठाए जाने पर उन्होंने एनजीटी में अवमानना याचिका दायर की थी। https://www.inextlive.com/uttar-pradesh/agra/agra-news-zeroing-the-eco-sensitive-zone-is-fatal-for-keetham-1726423311  (16 Sept. 2024)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9vxpUFbhD8  (15 Sept. 2024)

सीईसी की सिफारिशों के खिलाफ जिला प्रशासन, एसडीएम ने किया विरोध आगरा के ताज ट्रेपेजियम जोन के लिए फेफड़ों का काम करने वाले सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार की सीमा 403 हेक्टेयर से बढ़ाकर 799 हेक्टेयर करने पर सेंट्रल इम्पावर्ड कमेटी ने सुप्रीम कोर्ट में सिफारिशें दीं हैं। वहीं जिला प्रशासन ने इसका विरोध किया है। नेशनल ग्रीन ट्रिब्यूनल में हुई सुनवाई में पर्यावरण एवं वन विभाग के अपर मुख्य सचिव मनोज सिंह ने स्टेटस रिपोर्ट दाखिल की। तहसीलदार किरावली और एसडीएम की रिपोर्ट सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार के सीमा विस्तार के खिलाफ है। दोनों ने सीमा विस्तार से विकास योजनाओं पर असर पड़ने की रिपोर्ट दी है। https://www.amarujala.com/uttar-pradesh/agra/sur-sarovar-bird-sanctuary-district-administration-sdm-protest-against-cec-recommendations-2024-08-11  (11 Aug. 2024)

कीठम का एक माह मेंदायरा बढ़ाकर तय हो ईको सेंसिटिव जोन : एनजीटी राष्ट्रीय चंबल सेंक्चुरी प्रोजेक्ट के तहत 24 अप्रैल 2018 को पर्यावरण, वन एवं जलवायु परिवर्तन मंत्रालय ने 799 हेक्टेयर के सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार के ईको सेंसिटिव जोन के संबंध में प्री-गजट नोटिफिकेशन जारी किया था। लेकिन, 10 अक्तूबर-2019 को जारी फाइनल गजट मेंयेदायरा घटाकर 403 हेक्टेयर कर दिया गया। पर्यावरणविद डॉ. शरण गुप्ता नेइस पर अपनी आपत्ति दर्ज कराई। https://www.livehindustan.com/uttar-pradesh/agra/story-ngt-directs-ministry-to-expand-keetham-bird-sanctuary-area-and-set-eco-sensitive-zone-201723219909097.html (9 Aug 2024)

आगरा के कीठम स्थित सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार का दायरा 403 हेक्टेयर से बढ़कर 800 हेक्टेयर कर दिया गया है। सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने पर्यावरणविद् डॉ. शरद गुप्ता की याचिका पर यह आदेश जारी किया है। सेंट्रल एंपावर्ड कमेटी (सीईसी) ने इस संबंध में सिफारिश की थी। प्रदेश सरकार ने मामले में बार-बार रुख बदला, लेकिन सीईसी की सिफारिश के बाद शपथ पत्र देकर सहमति जता दी। कीठम स्थित सेंक्चुअरी की अब नई सीमाएं तय की जाएंगी और 800 हेक्टेयर दायरे के मुताबिक ही ईको सेंसिटिव जोन तय किया जाएगा। https://www.amarujala.com/photo-gallery/uttar-pradesh/agra/supreme-court-orders-to-increase-the-area-of-sur-sarovar-bird-sanctuary-in-agra  (27 Sept. 2022) पर्यावरण एक्टिविस्ट डॉ। देवाशीष भट्टाचार्य ने बताया कि सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने दो महीने पहले ही सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार का क्षेत्रफल निर्धारण कर दिया था। भारत सरकार एवं उप्र सरकार को निर्देश दिया था कि नया क्षेत्रफल लागू करते हुए नए ईको सेंसिटिव जोन का निर्धारण किया जाए। नया क्षेत्रफल और सेंसिटिव जोन लागू हो जाता है तो अवैध निर्माण पर पूरी तरह अंकुश लग जाएगा। इसके साथ ही वन्य जीवों को शिकारियों का खतरा भी दूर हो सकेगा। वनों के किए जा रहे अवैध कटान पर भी रोक लग जाती। लेकिन, ऐसा हुआ नहीं। इससे काफी नुकसान हो रहा है। https://www.inextlive.com/uttar-pradesh/agra/keetham-lake-joke-in-the-name-of-eco-sensitive-zone-illegal-construction-will-curb-deforestation-1670780590  (12 Dec. 2022) आगरा के सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार का दायरा बढ़ सकता है। कीठम झील के इर्दगिर्द 403 हेक्टेयर में फैले सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार का दायरा बढ़ाकर 800 हेक्टेयर करने की सिफारिश सेंट्रल एंपावर्ड कमेटी ने की है। इस मामले में राज्य सरकार भी पक्षी विहार का दायरा बढ़ाने पर सहमत है। अगर सबकुछ ठीक रहा तो इसका क्षेत्रफल दोगुना हो जाएगा। राष्ट्रीय चंबल सेंक्चुरी प्रोजेक्ट ने चार साल पहले 24 अप्रैल 2018 को सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार का क्षेत्रफल 800 हेक्टेयर करने का प्री-गजट भी जारी कराया गया था, जिस पर लोगों से आपत्तियां मांगी गई थीं। बाद में प्रदेश सरकार ने इसे वापस ले लिया। https://www.amarujala.com/photo-gallery/uttar-pradesh/agra/recommendation-to-declare-soor-sarovar-bird-sanctuary-in-800-hectares-in-agra  (10 April 2022)  सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार (कीठम) के ईको सेंसिटिव जोन के निर्धारण में नया पेच फंस गया है। सेंट्रल इंपावर्ड कमेटी (सीईसी) ईको सेंसिटिव जोन से पहले कीठम के ही क्षेत्र का निर्धारण वर्ष 1991 के गजट नोटिफिकेशन के आधार कराने पर विचार कर रही है। सीईसी संबंधित दस्तावेज, नक्शे और राजस्व रिकार्ड पुन: संकलित करने के साथ नेशनल ग्रीन ट्रिब्यूनल द्वारा दिए गए निर्देशों और विभिन्न समितियों की रिपोर्ट को भी इसका आधार बनाएगी। https://www.jagran.com/uttar-pradesh/agra-city-there-is-a-new-suspense-in-the-determination-of-eco-sensitive-zone-of-soor-sarovar-bird-sanctuary-21985412.html  (02 Sept. 2021) आगरा के सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार के लिए पहली बार पारिस्थितिकीय संवेदनशील क्षेत्र (ईको सेंसिटिव जोन) का मास्टर प्लान बनेगा। सरोवर की प्रतिबंधित सीमा के बाहर संवेदनशील क्षेत्र का निर्धारण किया जाएगा। जिलाधिकारी की अध्यक्षता में वन एवं पर्यावरण, प्रदूषण समेत 10 विभागों की कमेटी प्रस्ताव तैयार करेगी। https://www.amarujala.com/photo-gallery/uttar-pradesh/agra/master-plan-of-eco-sensitive-zone-will-be-made-for-sur-sarovar-bird-sanctuary-agra  (06 Feb. 2021) एनजीटी में सूर सरोवर पक्षी विहार के ईको सेंसिटिव जोन में हिंदुस्तान और आनंद काॅलेज के निर्माण से संबंधित याचिका पर सुनवाई हुई है। पर्यावरण, वन एवं जलवायु परिवर्तन मंत्रालय ने एफीडेबिट दाखिल कर ईको सेंसिटिव जोन का दायरा तय नहीं होने के लिए उप्र सरकार को जिम्मेदार ठहराया है। एनजीटी ने समिति गठित करने व तीन माह में रिपोर्ट दाखिल करने के निर्देश दिए हैं। https://www.jagran.com/uttar-pradesh/agra-city-committee-to-investigate-the-eco-sensitive-zone-of-soor-sarovar-bird-sanctuary-agra-20768269.html  (19 Sept. 2020)

WATER OPTIONS

IWP This article introduces AquaWise, an evidence based decision support tool developed by ATREE for implementing site specific greywater treatment solutions for schools in arid and semiarid regions. https://www.indiawaterportal.org/articles/aquawise-decision-support-tool-greywater-treatment-solutions  (02 Sept. 2024)

GROUNDWATER

Goa Up to Rs 10 lakh fine for contaminating ground water Goa govt’s amendment to the ‘Goa Ground Water Regulation Act’, issued on Sep 11, introduces stricter penalties for those found guilty of polluting or contaminating groundwater through the injection of treated or untreated water into aquifer systems. The amendment aims to deter individuals and entities from engaging in practices that could potentially harm the state’s groundwater resources.

Under the revised legislation, offenders will now face a substantial fine of up to Rs 10 lakh. Furthermore, if any well is found to have been sunk in violation of the act, it shall be “filled and permanently sealed”, with the costs incurred during this process being recovered from the responsible person or user. The offender can also be punished if they obstruct the ‘ground water officer’ or any other person authorised by him to exercise the powers under the act. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/up-to-rs-10-lakh-fine-for-contaminating-ground-water/articleshow/113269382.cms  (11 Sept. 2024)

Karnataka In another bleak pointer to groundwater contamination in Chikkaballapur Taluk, a new study has recorded excessive fluoride and nitrate in samples and marked children who consume the water at a higher health risk. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/groundwater-contamination-leaveschildren-at-higher-riskfindschikkaballapurstudy-3189942  (13 Sept. 2024)

Punjab ED acts against liquor firm accused of causing water pollution The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday (July 09) conducted searches on the premises linked to a liquor manufacturing company, Malbros International Private Limited, and associated entities in Delhi, Punjab and Madhya Pradesh, in connection with a case of environmental crime. The company is owned and controlled by Deep Malhotra, Gautam Malhotra and family and is a part of the Oasis Group of companies, according to the agency. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ed-acts-against-liquor-firm-accused-of-causing-water-pollution/article68410648.ece  (17 July 2024)

URBAN LAKES, WETLANDS

Hyderabad  ‘HYDRA to have special powers soon,’ says AV Ranganath Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Protection Agency (HYDRA) commissioner AV Ranganath announced that an ordinance could be passed in October to reinforce the legal sanctity of HYDRA with special powers on the lines of Greyhounds and Taskforce.

During a media conference held in Hyderabad on September 14, Ranganath said that HYDRA was established through GO 99 by executive resolution. He clarified that it is incorrect to claim the agency lacks legal standing. He said that the powers under various acts will be delegated to HYDRAA, by taking from Water, Land and Trees (WALTA) Act, GHMC Act, Irrigation Act, and so on. He said presently homework for the same was going on, and that once the policy document is ready, it will be sent for the cabinet’s approval, and then and ordinance will be passed in the legislative assembly within 6 weeks of the cabinet resolution being passed.

This comes at a time when a petition has been filed in the High Court questioning the legal authority of HYDRA in demolishing the structures. Hearing a petition of one D Lakshmi, the High Court bench led by Justice Lakshman summoned the advocate general to appear before the court to explain the legal basis for the constitution of HYDRA. https://www.siasat.com/hyderabad-hydra-to-have-special-powers-in-october-says-av-ranganath-3096237/  (14 Sept. 2024)

HC grants relief to Medchal officials facing HYDRA complaint Justice K Sujana of the Telangana High Court has ordered the state government and HYDRA commissioner A.V. Ranganath to refrain from arresting K. Srinivasulu, an assistant director in the survey and land records department of Medchal district, along with another employee, Phool Singh. The judge noted that the complaint filed by HYDRA lacked sufficient evidence to establish a case under the specified section.Consequently, the judge instructed the authorities to summon the accused and document their statements, directing them to appear before the authorities. The accused are alleged to have permitted illegal constructions in the floodplain and buffer zones. https://www.siasat.com/telangana-hc-grants-relief-to-medchal-officials-facing-hydra-complaint-3096503/  (15 Sept. 2024)

Realtors encroaching lakes given to them to preserve: Activists Accusing real estate developers of encroaching on lakes they were entrusted to preserve and beautify, lake activists have urged the govt to revoke the adoption permissions granted to them. The lake adoption programme was initiated during the previous BRS govt by then minister KT Rama Rao, allowing real estate firms to take responsibility for lake restoration under corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. However, activists have alleged that certain developers have violated the guidelines and taken up illegal construction around the lakes. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/activists-demand-action-against-realtors-for-lake-encroachments-in-hyderabad/articleshow/113207153.cms  (10 Sept. 2024)

HYDRAA can’t permit buildings near lakes, water bodies The HYDRAA clarified that it is not authorised to issue No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for buildings near lakes and water bodies. Currently, the irrigation department is responsible for issuing NOCs, while HYDRAA handles enforcement activities. Other state departments, including revenue and irrigation, serve notices, with HYDRAA executing the actions.  HYDRAA has requested the authority to serve notices, but the proposal is still pending approval.

Recent claims that HYDRAA will issue NOCs were dismissed as false by officials. On Wednesday, HYDRAA commissioner A.V. Ranganath visited the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) to seek assistance in gathering crucial data for disaster management. Discussions included the use of aerial services and digital mapping for assessing infrastructure and planning future projects. HYDRAA is also working on accessing historical satellite data up to 2024 to monitor water bodies and nalas in Hyderabad. The agency plans to utilise geographical maps and real-time data on water bodies for better decision-making in areas such as weather forecasting, rainfall tracking, and disaster management. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/telangana/hydraa-cant-permit-buildings-near-lakes-water-bodies-1823021  (12 Sept. 2024)

CM A. Revanth Reddy on Sep 11 said that a no-objection certificate (NoC) from the newly-formed lake protection agency HYDRAA will be mandatory for constructing any structure in Hyderabad. He also reiterated that HYDRAA will continue to demolish illegal buildings and structures which encroached the FTL and buffer zones. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/telangana/hydraa-clearing-encroachments-to-avoid-floods-during-rains-in-hyderabad-revanth-reddy-1822876  (11 Sept. 2024) The CM also urged people who have encroached on land in the Full Tank Level (FTL) or buffer zones of the lakes to voluntarily vacate. He made it clear that demolitions of all encroachments on FTL or buffer zones will be carried out by HYDRA. https://www.siasat.com/amid-hydra-demolitions-in-hyderabad-2bhk-houses-promised-to-residents-along-musi-3094216/  (11 Sept. 2024) https://www.deccanherald.com/india/telangana/will-remove-encroachments-on-water-bodies-telangana-cm-3185947  (11 Sept. 2024)

HYDRAA reclaims 67.48 acres of land in latest operations The HYDRAA in its latest phase of operations used heavy machinery to demolish large sheds, compound walls, and razed villas that were allegedly constructed within four lakes. The demolitions carried out between August 31 and September 8 took place at Appa Cheruvu, Ameenpur lake, Sunnam Cheruvu in Madhapur, and Katwa lake in Dundigal. According to HYDRAA, 3.2 acres were recovered at Appa Cheruvu, where 14 sheds were demolished; 51.78 acres at Ameenpur lake, where four sheds and 20 compound walls were razed; and 10 acres at Sunnam Cheruvu, where 13 ground-plus-one (G+1) villas were demolished. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/hydraa-reclaims-6748-acres-of-land-in-latest-operations/article68630924.ece  (11 Sept. 2024)

Watering Hyderabad’s dried-up dreams Since its inception in July this year, the HYDRAA, has been making headlines for its ruthless bulldozing of unauthorised structures raised on the city’s water bodies. With unflinching support from Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, this newly-constituted body has challenged powerful figures accused of encroachments. Swathi Vadlamudi tracks HYDRAA’s high-profile actions and examines the critical need for urban lake protection. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/watering-hyderabads-dried-up-dreams/article68635932.ece  (13 Sept. 2024)

Lake encroached to ease path to BRS leaders house. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/web-stories/lake-encroached-to-ease-path-to-brs-leaders-house-377

Bengaluru Testing flaws point to BBMP STPs choking 12 lakes: Study Setting out to find reasons for back-to-back fishkills and poor quality of water in some lakes ofResearchers have found that sewage treatment plants (STPs) commissioned by BBMP in 15 water bodies have been inconsistent and missing out on crucial testing parameters such as faecal coliform, ammoniacal nitrogen, and total nitrogen, prescribed by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB). The prolonged inconsistencies in testing parameters have resulted in eutrophication, algal bloom, a considerable drop in the dissolved oxygen levels, and incidents of fishkill at these lakes, according to an analytical report, ‘Efficiency and Impact of BBMP’s STP for Lakes’, published by ActionAid Association of India on Sept 13 2024.

– Analysing the functioning of STPs between Jan 2022 and July 2024, students of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) and St Joseph’s School of Social Work, along with ActionAid researchers, evaluated the KSPCB reports on water quality and obtained information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act besides visiting some of the lakes for collecting data. According to the report, out of the 15 STPs, only three at Bhattarahalli, Herohalli and Iblur have furnished full information on the quality of water, and the rest provided only partial information.

– The report said: “The occurrences of fishkills, despite the presence of STPs, indicate a possible failure in addressing water quality issues adequately. Further investigation is necessary to assess specific factors contributing to these incidents and implement corrective measures to prevent their recurrence.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/testing-flaws-point-to-bbmpstps-choking-12-lakes-study/articleshow/113333350.cms  (14 Sept. 2024) The report, which analysed 15 STPs run by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), highlighted several shortcomings such as fish kill in lakes despite the presence of STPs; the STP water not being tested for several parameters given by the SPCB, and identical values recorded during consecutive months suggesting potential irregularities.  https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/report-highlights-poor-state-of-sewage-treatment-plants-installed-near-bengaluru-lakes/article68638697.ece  (14 Sept. 2024)

Lokayukta finds blocked SWDs, encroachments at 2 lakes  Encroachments, blockage of rajakaluve (stormwater drain) and under-utilisation of funds were some of the irregularities discovered by Lokayukta during a recent inspection of Vibhutipura and Doddanekundi lakes.

The inspection was held on Aug 20 by Lokayukta Justice B S Patil, Upa Lokayuktas Justices K N Phaneendra and B Veerappa in the presence of BBMP, BWSSB and other officials.  https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/lokayukta-probe-finds-blocked-swdsencroachments-at-two-bengaluru-lakes-3181926  (09 Sept. 2024)

URBAN WATER

Hyderabad Commercial Project Violates Norms A mega commercial complex that is also expected to house swanky hotels, coming up next to Road No. 45 in Jubilee Hills, not far from the KBR National Park, has been found to have violated several rules and laws with the Vigilance and Enforcement (V&E) wing recommending serious action against GHMC officials who facilitated the project’s progress.

In addition to violation of several norms, the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) has warned that the complex, once constructed, might well be unstable and could experience subsidence as the builders have dug deep and, in the process, exposed the water table. The CGWB report said that the excavations at the site removed granite gneiss rock to a thickness of about 24 metres. The builders shored up the loose formation using shotcrete “as a measure of slope stability.” The CGWB report also found that the “excavation had removed a highly eco-sensitive water holding portion of the aquifer, which may lead to rapid decline in the water level in the adjacent area.”

The site where the project is being built is a recharge area for two drains, and the report warned that “the ground water potential of the area may be affected soon.” In the end, the CGWB report declared that “the geological structures are mainly steep joints/fractures and dewatering of the fractured/joint aquifers would cause slope instability that would lead to slope failure/ground subsidence of high elevated regions.” https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/telangana/huge-commercial-project-violates-norms-ghmc-officials-implicated-1823653  (15 Sept. 2024)

Bengaluru Forest minister proposes to sell treated water from TG Halli reservoir  In a letter to the CM, Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre said selling the treated water from the reservoir will help bring revenue to the government. A meeting with ministers for water resources and minor irrigation should be held to explore the matter, he said. He said the government policy to allow selling of treated water in apartments has received positive feedback from the real estate companies during the recent meeting held by Deputy CM D K Shivakumar. Sources in the department said the measure is aimed at draining the polluted water in the reservoir. “Once the reservoir is drained, it can be cleaned. That will pave the way for its development as a water source for Bengaluru,” the source said.

Meanwhile, the government is dragging its feet on implementing the measures to protect the 1453 sq km catchment area of TG Halli reservoir. The government issued a notification in 2003 identifying the buffer zone of the catchment area but has failed to implement the rules, leading to largescale violations. The government has spent Rs 260 crore to set up water treatment facilities for TG Halli reservoir. The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) planned to get 110 mld from the reservoir. However, a test of the water showed that it was unfit for drinking. The agency is draining the water by pumping it to nearby Herohalli lake. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/now-karnataka-forest-department-proposes-to-sell-treated-water-from-tg-halli-reservoir-3188421  (12 Sept. 2024)

Chennai 200 in upscale Anna Nagar apartment take ill At least 200 residents of The Metrozone apartments in Anna Nagar have fallen sick over the past week, experiencing diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting, allegedly due to water contamination. Inspection by Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) and Greater Chennai Corporation officials, along with the health department officers, revealed contamination in a 3-lakh litre capacity sump, which stores water obtained from CMWSSB and private suppliers. The sump had blackish sludge and seepage, the officials said. https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2024/Sep/12/200-in-upscale-anna-nagar-apartment-take-ill-water-contamination-suspected  (12 Sept. 2024)

Trichy Delayed pipeline work disrupts water supply Everyday life has been disrupted in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city, by a water crisis caused by the disruption in water supply by the  Kerala Water Authority (KWA) for five consecutive days.

The disruption is owed to the realignment of 500 mm and 700 mm pipes by KWA, to make way for the railway track doubling on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kanyakumari route. Almost all residents of the 40 wards under the Corporation faced struggles as the city did not have access to even drinking water. https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/tpuram-water-crisis-delayed-pipeline-work-disrupts-supply-for-five-consecutive-days  (09 Sept. 2024)

Coimbatore Residents block road for drinking water supply The residents of Ramani Mayuri Layout at Saravanampatti blocked the Saravanampatti-Thudiyalur road on Saturday (Sept. 14) to protest inordinate delay in water supply to their area. They blamed the city corporation for failing to provide water. The layout houses 512 families, most of whom are retired police personnel. “We haven’t received water for the past 20 days. Most of the residents are senior citizens. We were forced to buy water from private tankers, paying Rs400 for 360 litres. We had petitioned the officials of Tamil Nadu Water Supply And Drainage Board and city corporation several times, but in vain. Hence, we decided to stage a road roko today (Saturday),” one of the residents said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/coimbatore/residents-block-road-for-drinking-water-supply/articleshow/113356006.cms  (15 Sept. 2024)

Lucknow NGT fines DM, other officials The NGT has imposed a fine of Rs 5,000 each on the district magistrate of Lucknow, the Lucknow Nagar Nigam and the Lucknow Development Authority for not appearing before the tribunal in pursuance to its directions for two weeks. The green body was hearing a matter regarding groundwater depletion in the Uttar Pradesh capital. In an order passed on September 4, a bench of NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava said that the tribunal had earlier issued notices to the authorities concerned. Next hearing on Dec 20. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/uttar-pradesh/groundwater-depletion-ngt-imposes-fine-of-rs-5000-each-on-lucknow-dm-others-3186312  (11 Sept. 2024)

Noida Coliform bacteria found in water samples Days after hundreds of residents of Supertech Ecovillage 2, Greater Noida West, fell ill after consuming water, the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) on Saturday confirmed the presence of “Coliform bacteria” and “excessive amounts of bleaching powder” in water samples collected from the society. Gautam Budh Nagar administration, meanwhile, said it has set up a committee, headed by Atul Kumar, ADM (Finance and Revenue), to thoroughly probe the Supertech Ecovillage 2 incident. Residents alleged that the society’s water tanks had undergone cleaning exercise taken up by the society’s management, HT had reported. Post the incident, GNIDA clarified that the authority was responsible for supplying water to the reservoir of the group housing society, while the water supply to residents’ homes was managed by the builder or apartment owners’ association (AOA). https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/noida-news/coliform-bacteria-found-in-water-samples-of-supertech-ecovillage-2-gnida-report-101726338823381.html  (15 Sept. 2024)

Delhi HC to take up PIL on sewer overflow, water contamination A PIL has been filed before the High Court, highlighting a year-long issue of sewer overflows in various areas of the capital, often leading to water contamination and the spread of waterborne diseases. It is set to be heard on Friday (Sept. 13). The petition, filed by NGO Social Jurist, criticises the authorities for failing failure to desilt major sewer lines, inadequate cleaning of branch sewers, reduced manpower and machinery for sewer maintenance, and outdated sewer systems that need urgent replacement. It attributes the delays to internal disputes within the Delhi government. https://www.newindianexpress.com/amp/story/cities/delhi/2024/Sep/13/delhi-hc-to-take-up-pil-on-sewer-overflow-water-contamination  (13 Sept. 2024)

Gurugram Bandhwari waste plant is set to lose its green NOC The wildlife department on Friday (Sept. 13) initiated the process to withdraw the no-objection certificate (NOC) it issued for the Bandhwari waste treatment plant. MCG has been given 10 days’ notice before the department proceeds with the withdrawal of the NOC, which was initially granted to ensure the plant operated without causing any harm to the surrounding Aravali forest area. In the notice, the department also said there was non-adherence to directives such as orders by Supreme Court and NGT at the Bandhwari site, as well as infringements of legislations like the Indian Forest Act (IFA), 1927; Wildlife Protection Act (WLPA), 1972; and Forest Conservation Act (FCA), 1980.

A recent survey conducted by the department found that the revenue rasta, a road utilised for water filling and patrolling in the Aravalis, is being obstructed by solid waste from the landfill, hindering officials from accessing the forest. Furthermore, leachate from the landfill is seeping into the forest and accumulating in waterbodies and low-lying areas, contaminating groundwater and posing a substantial threat to the local wildlife, officials said. Based on these findings, Gurgaon divisional wildlife officer Rajesh Chahal wrote to the chief conservator of forest and wildlife (south Haryana) AP Pandey, recommending that the NOC for the Bandhwari plant be revoked unless the issues are resolved. Subsequently, the process to revoke the NOC was initiated. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/leachate-harming-aravalis-bandhwari-waste-plant-is-set-to-lose-its-green-noc/articleshow/113334218.cms  (14 Sept. 2024)

WATER POLLUTION

Telangana Water polluted by dump yard proves bane of farmers The farmers of Fasalwadi village, three km away from the district headquarters of Sangareddy, are facing serious problems due to the water that enters their fields being polluted. The water is being affected by the dump yard set up by the Sangareddy municipality on the outskirts of Fasalwadi village. The farmers said that due to the recent rains, the water contaminated by the dump yard, which has rotting food items and other waste, is entering their fields. Another problem that affects them is the foul smell of the polluted water.

Neither T Jayaprakash Reddy, who was MLA for two terms nor Chinta Prabhakar, who has been MLA for nearly six years, is showing any interest in resolving the issue, farmers allege. Many farmers are suffering due to this polluted water and most of those cultivating crops are poor farmers. They are appealing to the authorities to find a solution to the problem. The dump yard problem has been festering for over the last two decades. Even though this problem has become serious, neither the authorities nor the people’s representatives are paying any attention. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2024/Sep/12/telangana-water-polluted-by-dump-yard-proves-bane-of-farmers  (12 Sept. 2024)

WATER

ORF National Water Policy A comprehensive assessment of water development projects is important due to the benefits and the perceptible and imperceptible costs over time and space. https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/where-is-india-s-new-national-water-policy (11 Sep 2024)

AGRICULTURE

Report National mission on natural farming stalled? The Finance Ministry has shot down a proposal from the Agriculture Ministry to provide a one-time incentive of Rs 20,000 per hectare to farmers who adopt natural farming, saying it was much higher than what was earlier approved. The EFC had approved an incentive of Rs 15,000 per hectare to be provided through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to farmers who adopt natural farming, it is learnt. This was approved in the financial year 2022-23, when Narendra Singh Tomar was the Agriculture Minister.

– In her Budget speech this year, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, “In the next two years, 1 crore farmers across the country will be initiated into natural farming supported by certification and branding. Implementation will be through scientific institutions and willing gram panchayats. 10,000 need-based bio-input resource centres will be established.” https://indianexpress.com/article/india/finance-ministry-rejects-agri-move-for-higher-incentives-to-push-natural-farming-9559115/  (10 Sept. 2024)

MONSOON 2024

Cabinet approves ₹2000 cr of Mission Monsoon The mission’s focus will include improving observations and understanding for providing highly accurate and timely weather and climate information across temporal and spatial scales, including monsoon forecasts, alerts for air quality, extreme weather events and cyclones, weather interventions for managing fog, hail, and rain, etc., capacity building and generating awareness. Critical elements of Mission Mausam will include the deployment of next-generation radars and satellite systems with advanced sensors and high-performance supercomputers, the development of improved Earth system models and a GIS-based automated Decision Support System for real-time data dissemination.

-Mission Mausam will directly benefit numerous sectors, such as agriculture, disaster management, defence, environment, aviation, water resources, power, tourism, shipping, transport, energy, and health. It would also enhance data-driven decision making in areas such as urban planning, road and rail transport, offshore operations, and environmental monitoring. Three institutes of the Ministry of Earth Sciences: the India Meteorological Department, the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, and the National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting will primarily implement Mission Mausam. https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2053896  (11 Sept. 2024)

Will be able to start or stop rain in 5 years: Govt Indian weather scientists hope to have enough expertise in the next five years to not only enhance rain but also suppress it, along with hail and lightning, in certain areas at will. Similarly, rain/hail can be suppressed in cities during floods. “We want to go for initial experimental artificial rain suppression and enhancement. Lab simulations (cloud chambers) will be done in the next 18 months, but we’ll definitely go for artificial weather modification in the five-year time scale,” said M Ravichandran, secretary, earth sciences ministry (MoES), on Sep 12 elaborating on Mission Mausam which got the Cabinet’s nod a day earlier.

 “Cloud seeding and cloud modification is a complex process. We have done a lot of experiments with cloud seeding to enhance rain with limited success. But not much has been done on cloud suppression,” Madhavan Rajeevan, former MoES secretary, told TOI.

Under the Mission, the IMD along with other scientific institutions of the MoES will also develop and launch ‘Mausam GPT’, a chatGPT like application, that will help users to get quick weather-related information in both written and audio form in the next five years. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/govt-to-develop-mausam-gpt-in-5-years-to-share-weather-info/articleshow/113306697.cms  (13 Sept. 2024)

‘Mission Mausam’ comes with a ‘conditions apply’ clause Experts highlight its limitations, pointing out that it is neither an answer to climate change events nor will it ever be an on-demand service. “While this is a good initiative, when we conduct experiments in a lab, we can control most factors. However, when we take this to the real world, conditions are not always ideal,” said Manju Mohan, an atmospheric scientist at the IIT-Delhi.

Research studies and experts have also highlighted the limitations and concerns over weather modification in the long run. For instance, injecting silver iodide into the clouds is a standard method to seed the cloud. However, the impacts of introducing these particles into the atmosphere could, in turn, trigger the formation of other pollutants. https://theprint.in/environment/modi-govts-rs-2000-cr-mission-mausam-is-ambitious-it-comes-with-a-conditions-apply-clause/2266828/  (13 Sept. 2024)

Study Changing monsoon extremes in last 5 decades Over 45 per cent of the districts in India are alternating between floods and droughts as the southwest monsoon becomes more erratic under the effect of global warming, says a new study. The findings were released on Friday (Sept. 14), just when large parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are struggling to cope with severe monsoon flooding. https://www.news18.com/india/floods-then-droughts-new-study-warns-of-changing-monsoon-extremes-in-last-5-decades-9042216.html  (07 Sept. 2024)

Opinion Get used to a new normal  -An Analysis of observational data from 1875 onwards suggests there is no long-term trend in monsoon rainfall on a national average. However, there are large spatial variations in the long-term trends. East-central India, some parts of northeast India and states like Kerala have shown a decreasing trend in seasonal rainfall while some parts of North Karnataka, Maharashtra and Rajasthan show an increasing trend.

-However, the monsoon rainfall across India shows considerable multi-decadal variability (time scale 30 years), with some epochs having less rainfall and some epochs having more rainfall. We have now entered an epoch with more precipitation.

-On the monthly time scale, there has been an increasing trend in monsoon rainfall in Sept and a decreasing trend in July in recent years. The onset of monsoon over central India is delayed but the retreat of monsoon over northwest India is also delayed. The frequency of monsoon lows has decreased and the formation of the first monsoon depression over the Bay of Bengal during the season is delayed. (Madhavan Nair Rajeevan) https://www.financialexpress.com/life/science-get-used-to-a-new-normal-in-monsoon-3606134/  (10 Sept. 2024)

Report Role of DAMUs in supporting farmers The story so far: Last week, PTI reported that the IMD is planning to revive District Agro-Meteorology Units (DAMUs) under the Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa (GKMS) scheme. The IMD established 199 DAMUs in 2018 in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. The aim was to use weather data to prepare and disseminate sub-district level agricultural advisories. In March, DAMUs were shut down following an order issued by the IMD.

Around 80% of farmers in India are small and marginal. They largely practise rain-fed agriculture in the backdrop of a decades-long farm crisis that is now overlaid with climate change-related weather variability. “The climate is changing. Monsoon onset and withdrawal dates have changed. We also see extended dry spells and heavy wet spells. Farmers should have this information because it affects crops,” Madhavan Rajeevan, former secretary, Ministry of Earth Science said. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/role-of-district-agro-met-offices-in-supporting-farmers/article68623499.ece  (10 Dec. 2024)

60% chance of La Nina conditions to develop by year-end The latest update from the World Meteorological Organisation Global Producing Centres of Long-Range Forecasts on Sep 11 indicates a 55 per cent likelihood of a transition from the current neutral conditions (neither El Nino nor La Nina) to La Nina conditions during Sep-Nov 2024. “This likelihood increases to 60 per cent from Oct 2024-Feb 2025, with the chance of El Nino redeveloping during this time being negligible,” the WMO said. https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/la-nina-conditions-may-develop-by-year-end-world-meteorological-organisation/cid/2047288  (11 Sept. 2024)

CareEdge Ratings has highlighted that while the overall monsoon performance has improved from last year, the agriculture sector still faces risks due to uneven rainfall distribution. Key agrarian regions in Northern India and the Gangetic plains have significant rainfall deficits, affecting Kharif sowing, which is 97% complete. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/agriculture/regional-rainfall-deficits-threaten-agriculture-despite-improved-monsoon-performance-careedge-report/articleshow/113227668.cms  (10 Sept. 2024) 

Will monsoon retreat be delayed? There is speculation over this due to the intensification of the current low-pressure system and the expected development of another one over the Bay of Bengal later in the month. While some experts say that the 4-month seasonal rains will extend their stay, others such as Mahesh Palawat of Skymet India believe it is “unlikely”. He says that the expected development of an anticyclone over Pakistan in mid-Sep will set in motion the process of the monsoon’s withdrawal from w Raj. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/india/will-the-monsoons-retreat-be-delayed-this-year-too/ (9 Sep 2024)

The SW Monsoon — among the wettest in years with aggregate rainfall 8% over the LPA during the season — may begin its withdrawal from some parts of northwest India around Sep 22.

If that happens, it will be the earliest the monsoon has started withdrawing from northwest India in 8 years. Last year, it started withdrawing only around Sep 25, and in 2022, IMD had announced on Sep 30 that monsoon has withdrawn from Punjab, Chandigarh Delhi, parts of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan. It however continued raining and experts said IMD had announced commencement of withdrawal prematurely.

There is 22.7% excess rain in the first 12 days of Sep with 32.3% excess over northwest India; 47.4% deficiency over east and northeast India; 45.1% excess over central India; 64.1% excess over peninsular India. Overall, since the season began, there is 8% excess rainfall since June 1. There is 19% excess over central India; 5% excess over northwest India; 16% deficiency over east and northeast India and 24% excess over Peninsular India. Monsoon normally begins withdrawal on Sep 17 and withdraws completely from the country on Oct 15. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/withdrawal-of-monsoon-may-begin-from-sept-22-says-imd-101726166374066.html  (13 Sept. 2024)

Halfway through September, the monsoon has not shown any signs yet of retreating. Meteorologists are ‘almost certain’ that the persistent rains that began in June will continue over Northwest India till October — marking another year of an unusually long monsoon season for the region. When the four-month season draws to an end, it has been observed that the monsoon has been taking 7-14 days more to withdraw from various states in North India. The season now lasts much longer than it did before 1940 — spelling trouble for farmers. Last year, the monsoon retreat began from West Rajasthan on September 25 — eight days later than its normal date of September 17. In 2022, it was late by three days (September 20), but a year before, it did not start withdrawing until October 6 — a delay of over three weeks.

Interestingly, even though it spent more time over Northwest India, the monsoon still managed to finally leave South India by October 15 — in time for the arrival of the north-east monsoon. The reasons behind these unusual delays have eluded scientists so far. According to them, it could be a part of a ‘multi-decadal natural variability’ — changes that the monsoon exhibits each decade. https://www.news18.com/india/how-is-it-still-raining-in-mid-september-science-behind-unusually-long-monsoon-over-north-india-9048134.html  (12 Sept. 2024)

Since June 1, when the four-month monsoon season starts, the country has received 836.7 mm rainfall, eight per cent higher than the normal of 772.5 mm. East and northeast India recorded 16 per cent below-normal rainfall while the other three zones — northwest, central and south India — recorded four per cent, 19 per cent and 25 per cent excess rainfall, respectively. https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/southwest-monsoon-may-start-withdrawing-between-september-19-and-25-says-india-meteorological-department/cid/2047595  (12 Sept. 2024)

Rajasthan After 49 years, monsoon rainfall crosses 600mm mark After nearly 49 years, the state received an average rainfall of above 600mm, something which it experienced last in 1975 when it recorded 665.4mm, the Met office said on Monday (Sept. 09). Rajasthan has so far received an average rainfall of 642mm from June 1 to Sept 9 this year compared to 409mm recorded during this period in 2023, the Met office said. “This is 58% higher compared to what we received last year. In 1975, the state recorded 665.4mm from June 1 to the last week of Sept. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/after-49-years-monsoon-rainfall-crosses-600mm-mark-in-rajasthan/articleshow/113214914.cms  (10 Sept. 2024)

Ajmer: Rains lashed the city for the third day on Sunday (Sept. 08), resulting in the leaking of water from Anasagar Lake for the first time from Baradari. A house also collapsed in Mangliyawas. The check dam at Foysagar also leaked, and the SDRF is trying to stop the rushing water by using sandbags. For the third consecutive day, the road from TB hospital to Bajrangarh remained closed as roads and houses are flooded. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ajmer/ceaseless-downpour-for-three-days-leaves-ajmer-in-shambles/articleshow/113208120.cms  (10 Sept. 2024) In the last 24 hours till 8.30 am on Monday (Sept. 09), Bharatpur received 224 mm of rain, Kundal in Dausa recorded 111 mm rain while it was 86 mm in Dungarpur’s Dhambola, 81 mm in Pratapgarh, 77 mm in Bagidora of Banswara and 75 mm in Baran, it said. https://theprint.in/india/heavy-downpour-in-parts-of-rajasthan-bharatpur-records-224-mm-of-rain/2259331/  (09 Sept. 2024)

Agra Incessant rains leaves Taj Mahal’s garden submerged, Water leaks in main dome. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/incessant-rain-in-agra-leaves-taj-mahals-garden-submerged-water-leaks-in-main-dome-1823506  (14 Sept. 2024)

FLOOD 2024

SANDRP Blog Imprudent management of SSP & other Narmada dams could create avoidable flood disaster in Sept 2024? Narmada Valley could again be facing avoidable flood disaster this month due to imprudent management of dams in the basin. Most large dams like Indira Sagar, Sardar Sarovar, Bargi, Tawa and Omkareshwar are full or almost full. IMD has preducted flash floods over the next two days. More rain is on the way. CWC has forecast massive increase in inflows. The dams are still not taking advance action by releasing water to the extent downstream river can take the outflows. There is need to urgently take action in this regard as there is sufficient actionable information for advance release of water as this article shows. https://sandrp.in/2024/09/11/imprudent-management-of-ssp-and-other-narmada-dams-could-create-avoidable-flood-disaster-in-sept-2024/  (11 Sept. 2024)

नर्मदा पर बांधों के गेट नहीं खोले जाने के कारण आई बाढ़, गांवों में भरा पानी साउथ एशिया नेटवर्क ऑन डेम, रिवर्स एंड पियूपिल (SANDRP) के अनुसार यह सारा पानी सरदार सरोवर बांध में आने की संभावना है। मध्य प्रदेश में नर्मदा नदी पर बने बरगी (96 प्रतिशत भरा हुआ), तवा (94 प्रतिशत), इंदिरा सागर (97 प्रतिशत) और ओंकारेश्वर (72 प्रतिशत) जैसे बड़े बांध लगभग भर चुके हैं। ये सभी आंकड़े 29 अगस्त 2024 तक नर्मदा नियंत्रण प्राधिकरण के दैनिक जलाशय बुलेटिन से लिए गए हैं। ऐसी स्थिति में इन सभी बांधों में आने वाले दिनों में संभावित अतिरिक्त जलप्रवाह को अवशोषित करने की बहुत कम क्षमता बची हुई है। ऐसे में जब भारी बारिश के कारण इनमें और पानी आया तो उसे वे संभालने की स्थिति में नहीं थे।

कायदे से इन बांधों को भी आने वाले दिनों में संभावित जलप्रवाह के लिए जगह बनाने के लिए तुरंत पानी छोड़ना शुरू करना चाहिए था। सरदार सरोवर बांध और इंदिरा सागर बांध के लिए 1 सितंबर 2024 तक सीडब्ल्यूसी का 7-दिवसीय पूर्वानुमान भी पुष्टि करता है कि संबंधित बांधों में जलप्रवाह 3 सितंबर 2024 को चरम पर पहुंचने वाला है, जो 1 सितंबर को होने वाले जलप्रवाह से कई गुना अधिक है। https://hindi.downtoearth.org.in/natural-disasters/flood-occurred-due-to-not-opening-the-gates-of-dams-on-narmada  (12 Sept. 2024)

नर्मदा घाटी में पुनर्वास की मांग तेज नर्मदा बचाओ आंदोलन के बैनर तले आज कसरावद गांव में जल सत्याग्रह शुरू हुआ, क्योंकि सरदार सरोवर बांध का जलस्तर 136 मीटर से ऊपर पहुंच गया है। इस जलस्तर वृद्धि के कारण नर्मदा घाटी के सैकड़ों गांवों में हजारों परिवारों के मकान और खेत डूबने के कगार पर हैं। यह स्थिति तब आई है जब पुनर्वास की प्रक्रिया अब भी अधूरी है और कई परिवारों का जीवन और भविष्य असुरक्षित है। 2023 के मानसून में भी जलस्तर बढ़ने से 170 से अधिक गांवों के मकान और हजारों एकड़ कृषि भूमि जलमग्न हो गई थी। इस साल भी किसानों, मजदूरों, मछुआरों और अन्य समुदायों के हजारों परिवारों के मकानों पर वही संकट मंडरा रहा है। सरदार सरोवर का जलस्तर 136 मीटर के पार पहुंच चुका है, और ऊपरी बांधों के जलाशय भी पूरी तरह से भरे हुए हैं। https://www.deshgaon.com/voices/narmada-valley-faces-rising-waters-homes-and-hopes-on-the-brink-of-submergence/  (14 Sept. 2024)

Medha Patkar along with affected villagers stage Jal Satyagrha. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeOWCNFxd4M  (15 Sept. 2024)

बरगी बांध: विस्थापितों की सुरक्षा की मांग, गेट खुले रखने की अपील विस्थापित एवं प्रभावित संघ के अध्यक्ष राज कुमार सिन्हा का कहना है कि प्रशासन ने बारिश के पूर्वानुमान और मौसम विभाग की चेतावनी के बावजूद समय रहते आवश्यक कदम नहीं उठाए। उन्होंने यह भी कहा कि बांध के जल स्तर को नियंत्रित करने के लिए गेटों को समय पर नहीं खोला गया, जिससे विस्थापित बस्तियों में पानी भर गया और कई गांवों को भारी नुकसान उठाना पड़ा। संघ की मांग है कि बांध के गेट खुले रखे जाएं ताकि आने वाले दिनों में और अधिक पानी जमा न हो सके और बांध के निचले इलाकों में रहने वाले लोगों को सुरक्षित रखा जा सके। इस बीच, नर्मदा घाटी विकास प्राधिकरण ने जल प्रवाह को नियंत्रित करने के लिए कदम उठाए हैं, लेकिन स्थिति अभी भी गंभीर बनी हुई है। https://www.deshgaon.com/voices/bargi-dam-demand-for-safety-of-displaced-people-appeal-to-keep-the-gates-open/  (13 Sept. 2024)

एकलबारा की बरसी: प्राण प्रतिष्ठा से पहले ही जहां विस्थापित हो गए राम, नर्मदा की धाराओं में डूब गया गांव. https://www.deshgaon.com/special-stories/voices-from-ekalbara-a-village-drowned-in-the-name-of-development/  (15 Sept. 2024)

जबलपुर और आसपास के इलाकों में लगातार हो रही भारी बारिश के कारण स्थिति गंभीर हो गई है। बरगी बांध के आसपास के क्षेत्रों में जलभराव और बाढ़ का खतरा बढ़ गया है। बुधवार (Sept. 11) को बांध के 11 गेट पहले ही खुले थे, और आज सुबह 6 और गेट खोलने पड़े, जिससे नर्मदा नदी में 4,300 क्यूमेक पानी छोड़ा जा रहा है। लगातार पानी छोड़े जाने से नदी के किनारे बसे गांवों पर बाढ़ का खतरा मंडराने लगा है। बरगी विस्थापितों की समस्या गंभीर बरगी बांध से विस्थापित पदमी नारायणगंज मंडला के ग्रामीणों की स्थिति सबसे अधिक चिंताजनक है। भारी बारिश और बांध से छोड़े जा रहे पानी के चलते इन गांवों के घरों में पानी घुस गया है। ग्रामीणों के घर और फसलें जलमग्न हो चुकी हैं, जिससे उनकी रोजी-रोटी पर संकट आ गया है। https://www.deshgaon.com/voices/floods-worsen-in-madhya-pradesh-as-bargi-dam-releases-water-displaced-villagers-in-crisis/  (11 Sept. 2024)

जबलपुर क्षेत्र में हुई लगातार बारिश से बरगी बांध के 11 गेट मंगलवार शाम को खोल दिए गए हैं। इससे नर्मदा में तेजी से पानी बढ़ने लगा है। जबलपुर के बरगी डैम से पानी छोड़े जाने के बाद अब नर्मदापुरम जिले में खतरा बढ़ गया है। क्योंकि तवा डैम के भी गेट खुल गए हैं। इससे नर्मदा नदी खतरे के निशान की तरफ तेजी से बढ़ रही है। प्रशासन ने सभी जिलों को अलर्ट घोषित कर दिया है।

बैतूल जिले के सारनी में पानी की आवक बढ़ गई। जिसके चलते सतपुड़ा बांध (satpura dam sarni) के 14 में से 5 गेटों को 1-1 फीट तक खोलकर पानी छोड़ा गया। जिसके बाद सुबह 9.30 बजे गेटों की संख्या बढ़ाकर 7 कर दी गई। जिससे तवा नदी में 12755 क्यूसेक पानी छोड़ा।

विदिशा जिले के हलाली बांध और संजय सागर बांध के गेट खोलने पड़े हैं। सम्राट अशोक सागर (हलाली डैम) के कार्यपालन यंत्री रमेश चौहान ने बताया कि हलाली में शत प्रतिशत जल भराव हो जाने पर जलस्तर को नियंत्रित करने के लिए मंगलवार की दोपहर 12 बजे बांध के तीन गेट आधा मीटर खोले गए, जिससे लगभग 131 क्यूमेक्स पानी डिस्चार्ज होगा। आवश्यकता पडऩे पर गेटों की ऊंचाई और अधिक बढ़ाई जा सकती है।

शिवपुरी में मड़ीखेड़ा के चार गेट खोल दिए गए हैं। लगातार 680 क्यूसेक पानी छोड़ा जा रहा है। पूरी रात से जहां शिवपुरी में बारिश हो रही है और सिंध के कैचमेंट में भी बारिश होने से डैम में पानी बढ़ गया। गेट आज सुबह 9 बजे खोले गए। https://www.patrika.com/bhopal-news/monsoon-fury-imd-issues-rain-alerts-warns-of-flash-flood-in-several-district-danger-of-flood-in-narmada-river-18978311  (11 Sept. 2024)

SANDRP Blog Lower Yamuna Basin: 11 Rivers Crossed old HFLs in just 2 days in Sep 2024 It is interesting to see that at least 11 rivers at as many flood monitoring sites of Central Water Commission (CWC) located in Bundelkhand region (4 sites) and lower Yamuna basin (7 sites) have crossed old Highest Flood Level (HFL) just in 2 days on September 12-13, 2024. These sites are in 3 different states of Madhya Pradesh (7 sites), Uttar Pradesh (3 sites) and Rajasthan (1 site). It is noteworthy here that this is happening even as Upper Narmada basin adjacent to these areas is also facing floods due to simultaneous high rainfall on both sides of the ridge. https://sandrp.in/2024/09/14/lower-yamuna-basin-11-rivers-crossed-old-hfls-in-just-3-days-in-sept-2024/  (14 Sept. 2024)

Yamuna river today at Gokul Barrage, Mathura. While lower segment of river is in severe flood, intermittent rain spells in Himalayan catchment has resulted in constant releases from Hathnikund Barrage enabling river gain significant flows all through upper and middle segment. Video by Nakul ji. https://fb.watch/uCF6hJB9Hw/  (14 Sept. 2024)

Yamuna rivers a while ago at Pachnada in Etawah & in Hamirpur this morning. After good rainfall spells in last 3days, lower segment of river is witnessing significant rise & hs crossed danger level at Juhikha, Auraiya, Kalpi, Hamirpur. Pics by Udaybhan ji from Pachnada & Merapur. pic.twitter.com/ZnEMp096PK

— SANDRP (@Indian_Rivers) September 14, 2024

Yamuna rivers a while ago at Pachnada in Etawah in Hamirpur at Ekdala in Fatehpur last evening. Following good rainfall spells in last 3 days, lower segment of river is witnessing significant rise in water level and has crossed danger level at Juhikha, Auraiya, Kalpi, Hamirpur sites. Pics shared by Udaybhan ji Pachnada, Udaybhan ji Merapur (Hamirpur) and Jaikant ji from Ekdala.

SANDRP Blog August 2024: Tonga Dam Breach floods MP villages A breach in earthen Tonga dam has flooded half a dozen villages in Sabalgarh tehsil of Morena district in Madhya Pradesh. The breach occurred in intervening night of August 12-13, 2024. According to ETV Bharat, it was built in 1889 by the royal Scindia family and the 135-year-old dam has 193 MCM reservoir capacity. It has about 450-meter-long main concrete wall and two long earthen embankments to impound the water. The dam was filled upto about 80 percent at the time of the breach. However, National Register of Large Dams should have listed such a dam, but there is no dam by the name of Tonga dam (neither in NRLD 2019, nor in in 2023 edition), nor does NRLD list any MP dam commissioned in 1889, the earliest commissioned large dam listed is in 1895. The reservoir capacity listed above seems too high for it not to be listed in NRLD. https://sandrp.in/2024/09/11/august-2024-tonga-dam-breach-floods-madhya-pradesh-villages/  (11 Sept. 2024)

Rajasthan Giri Nanda Dam in Bar (Beawar) is full this year, only second time in its 58 years of existence. Last time it was full was in 1999.

Maharashtra Villagers claiming crack in embankment of Masalga dam Amid claims by villagers that an embankment of the Masalga dam in Latur’s Nilanga tehsil has developed a crack, authorities on Sept 9 said all fears of a breach were unfounded. In a release issued during the day, Masalga project executive engineer Amarsinha Patil said a technical inspection is underway and that there was no danger to the structure. As a precautionary measure, six gates were opened by 10 centimetres for water discharge to reduce the storage level on Sept 6, the official said. “The water being released is nominal. There is no danger to nearby villages, residents of which have been given precautionary warning. The dam has a total storage capacity of 14.676 TMC with an irrigation area of 1,664 hectares. People must not believe false information,” the release said. https://theprint.in/india/amid-villagers-claiming-crack-in-embankment-of-masalga-dam-officials-say-no-danger-of-breach/2259510/  (09 Sept. 2024)

Odisha Power generation halts in Machkund HEP due to flashfloods Following incessant rain in Koraput district, power generation in Machkund project was temporarily stopped after flood water seeped through walls of the dam, the project authorities informed on Sept 9. Floodwater has entered 80 MW Unit No. 2 of the power project. Efforts are on to flush out flood water and resume operations. Due to heavy rains, the main reservoir is over flowing with flood water over danger mark, said sources and added that 5 gates of the project have been opened to release the 23000 cusecs flood water. Similarly, 20,000 cusecs is released from Machkund’s D Dam through 4 gates into the Machkund river. https://odishabytes.com/power-generation-halts-in-machkund-project-due-to-flash-floods-in-odishas-koraput/  (09 Sept. 2024)

Heavy rainfall, triggered by a depression over the Bay of Bengal since Friday night, led to water levels rising in the Jolaput reservoir and surrounding areas. Officials said that despite opening five gates to release excess water, the reservoir level was at 2,746.60 ft on Monday, just shy of its 2,750-ft capacity. The overflow caused backwaters to flood the D-dam of the project.

“Four gates of the D-dam were opened to release the floodwaters, but as the water level in Jolaput reservoir kept rising, it began entering the turbines. We had to stop power generation to avoid short-circuit,” said Kureshu Pradhan, assistant engineer, Machkund project.

Shutdown of the hydel project has resulted in a loss of 80MW of power generation per hour. Pradhan said water entering the turbines had washed away the lubricant, making it difficult to predict when operations could resume. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/machkund-hydel-project-turbines-inundated/articleshow/113207323.cms  (09 Sept. 2024)

Hirakud Dam Water to be released to avoid flooding Chhattigarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai talked to his Odisha counterpart, Mohan Charan Majhi, for releasing water from Hirakud Dam to avert flooding in villages of Raigarh district, which fall within the submergence area of Hirakud Dam. In response, Odisha CM Majhi immediately ordered the release of the necessary amount of water from the dam, to prevent potential loss of life and property in over two dozen villages, informed a Chhattisgarh govt spokesperson. CG CM Sai expressed his gratitude to the Odisha CM. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/raipur/odisha-to-release-water-from-hirakund-dam-to-avert-flooding-in-raigarh/articleshow/113295784.cms  (12 Sept. 2024)

Andhra Pradesh Prakasam barrage: Work on to cut stuck boats Work to cut and remove the three boats that crashed into the Prakasam Barrage gates and got stuck at its three gates were progressing on Sept 11. Around 50 expert hands, including 11 personnel from the Sea Lion Offshore Diving Pvt Ltd in Visakhapatnam, were at work. “Scuba divers using gas cutters underwater are cutting one boat at a time into two halves. The parts will either be pulled to the river banks or let into the river downstream based on their size,” KV Krishna Rao, a retired EE of the water resources department overseeing the operation said. It would take at least three days to complete the operation. The fourth boat, which disappeared underwater, is yet to be located. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/andhra-pradesh/work-on-to-cut-boats-stuck-at-prakasam-barrage-gates-1823007  (12 Sept. 2024)

Govt to rope expert divers Despite several attempts using heavy cranes to remove the wooden boats each weighing around 40-50 tonnes, the team couldn’t find any success. All efforts to detangle the boats were met with no luck. The boats had collided with some of the barrage’s gates on the night of September 1. “The exercise, which had been going on since Monday, was abandoned on Tuesday (Sept. 10), as the cranes could not remove the boats which got entangled together with a plastic rope. As they got filled with sand, this only added to the pressure. They got stuck up against the barrage gates,” Ramanaidu said. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/andhra-to-rope-in-expert-divers-to-free-boats-stuck-near-prakasam-barrage-101726083473226.html  (12 Sept. 2024)

Prakasam barrage: Investigation on into boat collapse Five boats weighing 40-50 tonnes each crossed gates 67, 69 and 70 of Prakasam Barrage during high flood and hit the counterweight. Fortunately, the boats did not cause any damage to the main structure or the gates of the barrage. With each boat valued at Rs 40-50 lakh, tying 3 boats worth all that with a single plastic rope raises a lot of doubts.

– The barrage served the combined Krishna, Guntur, Prakasam and West Godavari districts for about 100 years from 1854 to 1952. After the barrage was damaged by the floods in 1952, the government reconstructed it and named it after former Chief Minister Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu. Efforts are on to find the fifth boat as so far only four boats were being mentioned. https://www.ap7am.com/en/86314/investigation-on-into-collision-of-five-boats-with-prakasam-barrage-minister  (09 Sept. 2024)

The AP police arrested two men, identified as K. Ushadri and K. Rammohan, after their boats allegedly crashed into the Prakasam Barrage on September 1 during heavy floods, damaging a gate. Totally 4 boats had crashed into the barrage. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/owners-of-two-boats-that-crashed-into-prakasam-barrage-arrested/article68622531.ece  (09 Sept. 2024) Conspiracy angle being suspected. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/conspiracy-in-boats-hitting-prakasam-barrage-ap/articleshow/113207270.cms  (10 Sept. 2024)

The CM also mentioned the incident at Prakasam barrage, where three boats were abandoned amidst the flood. “Had the boats hit the column instead of the counterweight, the outcome would have been far worse,” he said, and vowed to expose and punish the “criminals operating under political cover.” Home minister Vangalapudi Anita, who reviewed the flood situation in north Andhra with district collectors on Tuesday (Sept. 10), said that police are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident concerning the three abandoned boats that hit a floodgate of Prakasam barrage recently. Two individuals have been taken into custody, and police are focused on identifying those behind the alleged conspiracy, she said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/cm-naidu-inspects-flood-damage-in-budameru-promises-action-against-negligence/articleshow/113240693.cms  (11 Sept. 2024)

Central team assess flood impact RP Sisodia, special chief secretary for disaster management, highlighted that initial estimates of the damage of Rs 6,882 crore, with the possibility of increasing further. A breakdown of the losses revealed that the roads and buildings department suffered the most, with damage estimated at 2,165 crore, followed by the irrigation department at Rs 1,569 crore, and urban development at Rs 1,160 crore. Additional departments, including agriculture, fisheries, horticulture, energy, and panchayati raj, also reported significant losses. The state govt allocated Rs 750 crore for rehabilitation efforts, which include rebuilding infrastructure and providing relief to the affected population. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/central-team-assesses-flood-damage-in-vijayawada/articleshow/113275320.cms  (12 Sept. 2024)

The CM has announced a compensation of Rs 25,000 per ha for rain-flood-related loss to paddy in the state this time. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/andhra-pradesh/naidu-announces-rs-25000hectare-aid-for-paddy-farmers-hit-by-floods-1822964  (12 Sept. 2024)

Telangana Floods breach 773 water tanks, urgent repairs estimated at 560 cr Recent floods and heavy rains have caused significant damage, with the irrigation department reporting that 773 water tanks and canals have been breached. To address this, an estimated 560 crore will be needed for urgent repairs. This includes 75 crores for temporary fixes and an additional 483 crores for permanent repairs to the affected water bodies and canals. The department stated that the Nagarjuna Sagar’s left canal at Kagitham Ramachandrapuram has breached due to backwaters from the Palair reservoir. Additionally, they reported that 285 minor irrigation sources had been damaged and breached.

– In a recent review meeting, Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy noted several shortcomings identified during his recent field inspections, particularly the lack of consistent monitoring of regulators and shutters at irrigation projects, which could potentially lead to significant mishaps. He also had highlighted that the shutter of an irrigation project was swept away during the process of lifting the gates. He warned that chief engineers would be held accountable for any future incidents that may occur. https://www.siasat.com/telangana-floods-breach-773-water-tanks-urgent-repairs-estimated-at-560-cr-3096520/  (15 Sept. 2024)

Haryana: -झज्जर: शुक्रवार (Sept. 13) को आई तेज बरसात के कारण नहर में हुए तेज बहाव से जिले के अंतिम छोर से निकलने वाली खानपुर माइनर टूट गई। माइनर टूटने के कारण नहर का पानी साथ लगते गांव गोरिया, खानपुर, खोरड़ा, बहु झोलरी की गलियों व घरों में घुस गया। माइनर टूटने से पानी खेतों में बहने लगा। जिस कारण करीब 600 एकड़ फसल जलमग्न हो गई। शनिवार की सुबह जब ग्रामीणों ने उठकर देखा तो गांव की गलियों में करीब दो से तीन फुट तक हुए जलभराव ने उनकी चिंता बढ़ा दी। इतनी अधिक मात्रा में हुए जलभराव के कारण जनजीवन प्रभावित रहा। https://www.haribhoomi.com/state-local/haryana/jhajjar/news/rainfall-brought-disaster-jhajjar-khanupar-minor-broke-600-acres-crops-submerged-public-life-affected-47052 (14 Sept. 2024) क्षेत्र से होकर गुजर रही खानपुर व चिड़िया माइनर के टूटने से ओलिंपियन मनु भाकर के गांव गोरिया व समीपवर्ती गांव खोरड़ा में बाढ़ जैसे हालात बन गए हैं। सुबह जब ग्रामीण सोकर उठे तो उन्हें अलग ही तरह की विपदा का सामना करना पड़ा। दिन चढ़ने के साथ-साथ गांव की गलियों तक पानी पहुंचना शुरू हो गया था। दोनों गांवों की करीब 12 हजार की आबादी एकाएक आई इस मुसीबत से प्रभावित हुई है। खास तौर पर निचले इलाके में रहने वाले करीब 30 से ज्यादा परिवारों को पलायन तक करना पड़ा है। गांव के जोहड़ से लेकर फिरनी तक के एरिया में हर जगह पानी ही पानी दिखाई दे रहा है। https://www.jagran.com/haryana/jhajjar-flood-situation-in-manu-bhaker-village-situation-worsened-in-two-villages-due-to-breakdown-of-khanpur-chidiya-miner-villagers-forced-to-migrate-23796994.html  (14 Sept. 2024)

HFL BREACH

Madhya Pradesh:- 1 River Banjar in Narmada basin at Mukki site in Balaghat district has crossed old HFL 678.96 meter dated 30.06.2005 and set 680.28 meter as new HFL at 08:00 hour on 11.09.2024 which is 1.32 meter higher than old HFL. Present flood level is 678.84 meter at 14:00 hour on 11.09.2024 with falling trend.

2 River Banjar a tributary of Narmada (wrongly mentioned as Narmada river by CWC) at Balai at Narayanganj site in Mandla district has crossed old HFL 423.02 meter dated 13.10.2022 at 03:00 hour on 11.09.2024. Present flood level is 423.59 meter at 14:00 hour on 11.09.2024 with rising trend.

3 River Sonar a tributary of Ken river in Ganga basin at Narsinghgarh site in Damoh district has crossed old HFL 335.5 meter dated 16.09.2023 at 11:00 hour on 11.09.2024. Present flood level is 335.9 meter at 14:00 hour on 11.09.2024 meter with rising trend.

4. River Nun in lower Yamuna basin at Masoodpur site in Gwalior district has crossed old HFL 212.75 meter dated 09.07.2019 at 05:00 hour on 12.09.2024. Present flood level is 214 meter at 09:00 hour on 12.09.2024 with rising trend.

5. River Pahuj in lower Yamuna basin at Unnao at Balaji site in Datia district has crossed old HFL 208.18 meter dated 15.08.2019 at 02:00 hour on 12.09.2024. Present flood level is 208.8 meter at 09:00 hour on 12.09.2024 with rising trend.

6. River Asan in Yamuna basin at Jaraina site in Morena district has crossed old HFL 172.67 meter dated 18.08.2020 at 14:00 hour on 12.09.2024. Present flood level is 176.5 meter at 20:00 hour on 12.09.2024 with rising trend.

7. River Sind in Yamuna basin at Seondha site in Datia district has crossed old HFL 143.7 meter dated 04.08.2021. Present flood level is 143.74 meter at 20:00 hour on 12.09.2024 with rising trend.

8. River Vesli in Yamuna basin at Gata site in Bhind district has crossed HFL 141.39 meter attained on 08.07.2024.

9. River Pana in Yamuna basin at Sarva site has crossed HFL 161.36 meter attained on 07.07.2024.

Uttar Pradesh: – River Dhasan a tributary of Betwa in Lower Yamuna basin at Lahchuraghat in Jhansi district has crossed old HFL 175.07 meter dated 23.08.2022 and set 176.71 meter as new HFL at 04:00 hour on 12.09.2024. Present flood level is 176.05 meter at 08:00 hour on 12.09.2024 with falling trend.

River Khari in Yamuna basin at Kiraoli site in Agra district has crossed old HFL 165.93 meter dated 24.08.2020.

River Ujjina at Parkham site in Mathura district has crossed old HFL 171.26 meter dated 13.03.2020.

Rajasthan: – River Uttangan a tributary of Yamuna at Baretha site in Dholpur district has crossed old HFL 159.55 meter dated 03.08.2019. Present flood level is 159.95 meter at 19:00 hour on 12.09.2024 with rising trend.

Haryana River Ujjina in Yamuna basin at Piprauli site in Nuh district has crossed old HFL 186.98 meter dated 13.10.2022 at 24:00 hour on 14.09.2024. Present flood level is 187.12 at 21:00 hour on 15.09.2024 with rising trend.

West Bengal: – River Bairabanki and Taraphini at DP Ghat site has crossed old HFL 56.42 meter date 01.09.1978 at 07:00 hour on 15.09.2024 and has set 56.995 meter as new HFL at 10:00 hour on 15.09.2024. Present flood level is 56.505 meter at 22:00 hour on 15.09.2024 with falling trend.

River Ichhamati at Bajitpur site in North 24 Parganas have crossed old HFL 11.765 meter dated 02.09.2020 at 22:00 hour on 14.09.2024. Present flood level is 11.87 meter at 09:00 hour on 16.09.2024 with rising trend.

CLOUD BURSTS

Himachal Pradesh रामपुर में बादल फटने से आई बाढ़ शिमला जिला के रामपुर उपमंडल की बधाल पंचायत में शनिवार (Sept. 14) रात करीब 11 बजे बादल फटने के बाद शिकारी नाले में बाढ़ आ गई। इससे जानी नुकसान तो नहीं हुआ, लेकिन कई बीघा सेब के बगीचों में मलबा घुसने से नुकसान हुआ है। मलबे की चपेट में आने से एक परिवार बच गया। रात को जैसे ही परिवार ने आवाज सुनी तो सभी सुरक्षित स्थान की ओर भाग गए। मलबा मकान के पास तक पहुंच गया। https://www.jagran.com/himachal-pradesh/shimla-flood-caused-by-cloud-burst-in-rampur-monsoon-will-be-active-from-september18-23797658.html  (16 Sept. 2024) उपमंडल रामपुर की बधाल पंचायत के शिकारी नाले में शनिवार (Sept. 14) देर रात बादल फटने से बाढ़ आ गई इस घटना में किसी प्रकार का जान माल का नुकसान तो नहीं हुआ, लेकिन कई बीघा सेब के बागीचे इसकी चपेट में आ गए। https://www.divyahimachal.com/2024/09/badhal-cloud-burst-apple-orchards-destroyed-due-to-cloud-burst-in-rampur/  (16 Sept. 2024)

Uttarakhand 7 killed, 320 rescued after cloudbursts Seven people were killed in Kedarnath in cloudbursts and landslides. Three members of a single family lost their lives. Lencholi, Gaurikund and Sonprayag are the worst-affected areas in Rudraprayag district. Around 320 people have been rescued. 200 people have been evacuated to GMVN guest houses and police stations for safety. NDRF, SDRF and other relief teams are on the ground for the rescue operations. https://www.newindianexpress.com/videos/videos-nation/2024/Aug/01/seven-killed-320-rescued-after-uttarakhand-cloudbursts-3  (01 Aug. 2024)

LANDSLIDES

Study Climate change, Infra behind rising landslide frequency A study prepared by RMSI, a geospatial and technology company that works in assessing natural and man-made disasters, analysed landslide patterns in several states, comparing them to other landslide-prone regions. It has concluded that the frequency and severity of landslides are increasing. The report further confirmed that climate change is playing a significant role in increasing landslide risk. This is in turn fueling several climatic factors like intense rain in several parts of the country.

– The RMSI study projects that annual precipitation intensity will increase substantially in the coming decades. For example, Mangaluru city in Karnataka is expected to see a 36% increase in annual precipitation intensity by 2050, while Guwahati in Assam may experience a 21% increase by 2080. However, the report emphasises that climate change is not the sole culprit. Rapid infrastructure development, particularly the expansion of road networks in hilly regions, has contributed to increased landslide vulnerability. Human activities such as deforestation and vegetation removal have further exacerbated the problem. The study found that areas with slopes between 25-45 degrees are particularly susceptible to landslides, suggesting that construction activities in these regions should be carefully managed.

– There is a clear link between rapid infrastructure development and India’s increasing frequency of landslides. “When we disrupt natural landscapes—whether by clearing vegetation, altering water absorption patterns, or expanding roads and buildings in fragile areas—we destabilize slopes, making them more prone to failure,” Pushpendra added. The report calls for more cautious development practices, especially in areas with low-grade metamorphic rocks, medium-grade metamorphic rocks, and soft sedimentary rocks. It emphasises the importance of preserving natural landscapes to maintain slope stability and reduce landslide risk. https://www.indiatoday.in/environment/story/climate-change-rapid-infra-growth-behind-rising-landslide-frequency-in-india-2597760-2024-09-11  (11 Sept. 2024)

Report  भूस्खलन का पूर्वानुमान, कहां तक पहुंची सरकार की तैयारी? किसी भी इलाके में किसी भी समय भूस्खलन होने की संभावना का पहले से पता लगाने वाली शुरुआती चेतावनी प्रणाली यानी अर्ली वॉर्निंग सिस्टम (ईडब्ल्यूएस) भारत में अभी भी प्रयोग के स्तर पर है। ऐसा तब है जबकि भारत, “लैंडस्लाइड एटलस ऑफ इंडिया” के मुताबिक, सबसे ज्यादा जोखिम वाले दुनिया के शीर्ष चार देशों में से एक है। दुनियाभर में बारिश से होने वाले भूस्खलन का 16 प्रतिशत तो सिर्फ भारत में होता है।

वायनाड में त्रासदी आने से मुश्किल से दो हफ्ते पहले 19 जुलाई को भारत ने अपना पहला भूस्खलन ईडब्ल्यूएस शुरू किया था। भारतीय भूवैज्ञानिक सर्वेक्षण (जीएसआई) के तहत स्थापित एनएलएफसी ने 23 जुलाई से तीन क्षेत्रों- पश्चिम बंगाल के कालिम्पोंग और दार्जिलिंग जिलों के अलावा तमिलनाडु के नीलगिरी जिले के लिए दैनिक पूर्वानुमान बुलेटिन जारी करना शुरू कर दिया है। यह हिमाचल प्रदेश, उत्तराखंड, सिक्किम, पश्चिम बंगाल, तमिलनाडु और केरल के 13 अन्य भूस्खलन संभावित जिलों के लिए भी पूर्वानुमान बुलेटिन जारी कर रहा है, लेकिन प्रयोग के तौर पर। https://hindi.downtoearth.org.in/natural-disasters/landslide-forecast-how-far-has-the-governments-preparation-reached  (16 Sept. 2024)

Uttarakhand -A devastating incident occurred on the Kedarnath yatra route when boulders fell between Sonprayag and Gaurikund, trapping a group of pilgrims. Unfortunately, five people lost their lives, while three others were injured and have been rescued. The rescue operation is facing challenges due to continuous rockfall. https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/Sep/10/landslide-on-kedarnath-route-death-toll-climbs-to-five-2 (10 Sept. 2024) -सोनप्रयाग भूस्खलन क्षेत्र में आज मंगलवार (Sept. 10) को रेस्क्यू के दौरान मलबे में दबे चार शव और निकाले गए। मृतकों की संख्या अब पांच हो गई है। तीन घायल अस्पताल में भर्ती हैं। सोमवार (Sept. 09) देर शाम केदारनाथ से लौट रहे आठ यात्री सोनप्रयाग में ऊर्जा निगम के पावर हाउस के समीप भूस्खलन जोन में पहाड़ी से गिर रहे पत्थर व मलबे में फंस गए। https://www.amarujala.com/dehradun/kedarnath-dham-landslide-in-sonprayag-passengers-hit-by-stones-falling-from-the-hill-died-and-injured-2024-09-10 (10 Sept. 2024)

पिथौरागढ़ के धारचूला– तवाघाट हाईवे पर भयानक भूस्खलन लैंडस्सलाइड की ये घटना कैलाश मानसरोवर मोटरमार्ग के चेतुलधार के पास हुई है. जिसके कारण इस मार्ग पर आवागमन पूरी तरह से बंद हो गया है. जिससे चलते लोगों की आवाजाही बाधित हो गई है. उत्तराखंड में इस साल मॉनसून सीजन में अभीतक 74 लोगों की मौत हो चुकी है. आपदा में इस साल सबसे ज्यादा मौत रुद्रप्रयाग जिले में 20 लोगों की हुई है. वहीं, सबसे कम जनहानि अल्मोड़ा जिले में हुई है. अल्मोड़ा जिले में दो लोगों ने आपदा के चलते जान गंवाई है. इस साल मॉनसून सीजन में करीब 44 लोगों के लापता होने की सूचना है. इसमें से 20 लोग तो चारधाम यात्रा मार्ग पर 31 जुलाई को लापता हुए थे, जिनका अभी तक कुछ पता नहीं चल पाया है. https://www.etvbharat.com/hi/!state/terrible-landslide-on-pithoragarh-dharchula-tawaghat-highway-uttarakhand-news-uts24091503088  (15 Sept. 2024)

 पिथौरागढ़ के पिपली खड़िया खान में भारी भूस्खलन, 6 मकान ध्वस्त  पिथौरागढ़ के बेरीनाग में बुधवार (Sept. 11) देर रात्रि से लगातार हो रही बारिश के कारण पिपली खड़िया खान के पास भूस्खलन हुआ है, जिससे खड़िया खान से 300 मीटर की दूरी पर स्थित मनगड़ गांव के 6 घर ध्वस्त हो गए हैं. मकान ध्वस्त होने के कारण स्थानीय लोगों में दहशत का माहौल है. खतरे की जद्द में आए मकानों को व्यक्तियों ने खाली करा दिया था, जिससे किसी के हताहत होने की खबर नहीं है. इससे पहले देर शाम पंचायत घर भी भूस्खलन की चपेट में आने के कारण ध्वस्त हो गया है. ग्राम प्रधान राजन सिंह और जिला पंचायत सदस्य दीवाकर रावल ने बताया की पिछले लंबे समय से खड़िया खान से गांव को खतरा और भविष्य में कोई बड़ा हादसा होने की शिकायत की जा रही थी. इससे पहले खड़िया खनन के दौरान भारी भरकम मशीनें लगाई गई थी, जिससे पूरे क्षेत्र की जमीन धंसना शुरू हो गई थी. उत्तरप्रदेश के एक व्यक्ति द्वारा खड़िया खनन का कार्य नियमों के खिलाफ किया गया था. https://www.etvbharat.com/hi/!state/6-houses-destroyed-due-to-heavy-landslide-in-pipli-kharia-khan-uttarakhand-news-uts24091206845  (12 Sept. 2024)

ENVIRONMENT GOVERNANCE

Report NBWL clears transmission lines in Gujarat’s flamingo habitat, Goa’s Mollem forest In its first post-election meeting, held after a gap of five months in July end, the standing committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) has cleared projects such as a transmission line in Little Rann of Kutch, a controversial transmission line project in Goa’s Mollem national park as well as a clutch of infrastructure projects in tiger corridors of central India, among others. The board considered 121 projects, big and small, across 12 states.

The SC-NBWL also pulled up the Madhya Pradesh tourism department for carrying out constructions in Son Gharial sanctuary and adjacent tiger corridors without permits. The minister recommended action against those responsible, the minutes showed. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/post-election-meeting-wildlife-board-clears-transmission-lines-in-gujarat-flamingo-habitat-goas-mollem-forest-9560284/  (10 Sept. 2024)

SOUTH ASIA

IWT Meeting held on Kishanganga, Ratle HEPs Pakistan and India met on Sep 10-11 in The Hague at the neutral expert forum to address disputes over the designs of India’s Kishenganga (330 MW) and Ratle (850 MW) hydropower projects. These projects, built on Pakistan’s rivers Jhelum and Chenab, have heightened tensions due to concerns about water flow impacts.

– Pakistan, led by Federal Secretary of Water Resources Syed Ali Murtaza, has raised objections to the designs. It argues that the Kishenganga project’s pondage of 7.5 million cubic metres should be reduced to 1 million cubic metres and seeks modifications to the intake and spillways. For the Ratle project, Pakistan wants the pondage reduced from 24 million cubic metres to 8 million, among other design changes. https://www.nation.com.pk/10-Sep-2024/pakistan-india-to-face-off-over-controversial-hydropower-projects-today  (10 Sept. 2024) On the issue of the Ratle Hydropower plant, Islamabad raised four objections. It wants India to maintain the freeboard at one metre; whereas, India wants to keep it at two metres. In addition, India wants to keep the pondage of 24 million cubic metres but Pakistan wants it to be restricted to eight million cubic metres. Pakistan also wants the intake of the project to be raised by up to 8.8 metres and its spillways should be raised by up to 20 metres. https://www.geo.tv/latest/563475-kishenganga-ratle-projects-neutral-expert-to-hear-pakistan-india-water-dispute-today  (10 Sept. 2024)

India-Nepal GMR ropes in SJVN, IREDA for Upper Karnali HEP GMR, the developer of the Upper Karnali hydropower project estimated to cost Rs146 billion, said the groundwork for its financial closure has begun in collaboration with SJVN & IREDA. The project has been on the drawing board since 2006. GMR Upper Karnali Hydro Power Ltd Nepal, a subsidiary of GMR Energy Ltd, is developing a 900 MW project on the Karnali river in the Achham and Dailekh districts. The three have signed an MOU for developing the project through a joint venture (JV) company in Nepal. The SJVNL and GMR will each hold 34 percent of the shares in the proposed JV, and IREDA will have 5 percent. The Nepal Electricity Authority holds a 27 percent stake.

Of the power generation, approximately 108MW will be allocated to Nepal, 500MW will be sold to Bangladesh under a long-term supply agreement with a dollar-denominated tariff, and the remaining 292MW will be available for sale in India. https://kathmandupost.com/money/2024/09/13/gmr-ropes-in-two-indian-partners-for-900mw-upper-karnali-hydel-project  (13 Sept. 2024)

India-Bangladesh The longstanding, crucial hydropolitical relations may face new challenges in the wake of this political turmoil. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/water/navigating-turbulent-waters-impact-of-bangladeshs-political-crisis-on-bilateral-water-diplomacy  (10 Sept. 2024)

No hilsa exports from Bangladesh to India Bangladesh produces 70-80% of the world’s ilish, making it a vital export product. However, the govt is prioritizing local availability during the festival. The adviser also addressed the ongoing issue of illegal ilish smuggling to India, stressing that stricter measures will be taken to stop the trade and keep the fish available in local markets.

Farida Akhter, Adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock also discussed broader challenges in Bangladesh’s fisheries sector, including the decline of native fish species in rivers and open waters. Despite the country’s success in farmed fish production, the loss of over 300 native species due to reduced water flow and pollution remains a concern. https://indianexpress.com/article/world/no-ilish-export-bangladesh-india-during-durga-puja-9558870/  (10 Sept. 2024)

CHINA

Tibetan monastery now lies at bottom of dam This is about expansion of 1200 MW Yangqu HEP in Dragkar (Chinese: Xinghai) county of Tsolho (Hainan) prefecture in Qinghai province. The Yangqu HEP work started in 2010 and became operational in 2016. The expansion started in 2022 and completed in Aug 2024. Power goes to Henan province. The expansion project has submerged not only the Tibetan monastery spread over 18 ha (built in 1889) but also the homes of over 15000 people. After floodgates for the dam were closed around Aug 10 2024, reservoirs filled and water levels rose in upstream areas of the Machu River, or Yellow River in Chinese. China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) had said it would force the relocation of more than 15,500 people — nearly all ethnic Tibetans — living in 24 towns and villages in Dragkar, Kawasumdo and Mangra counties. https://www.tibetanreview.net/tibetan-monastery-now-lies-at-the-bottom-of-a-chinese-dam-dislocating-over-15000-residents-as-well/  (13 Sept. 2024)

EUROPE

Poland Dam burst triggers historic flooding A dam burst in Międzygórze, southwest Poland, late Saturday (Sept. 14) following historic rainfall, leading to severe flooding in Poland, the Czech Republic, and parts of Austria. The flood situation remains critical with evacuations underway and flood levels surpassing historic records.

The Lower Silesian municipality of Bystrzyca Kłodzka said that the dam in Międzygórze had overflowed, despite efforts to drain water and prevent the surge. The Regional Water Management Authority in Wrocław called the situation critical, prompting evacuations from lower-lying villages. The dam, built at the beginning of the 20th century in the Kłodzko Valley on Poland’s border with the Czech Republic, is 29 metres high. Its flood control reservoir can hold almost a million cubic metres of water.

There has been a major dam failure in Poland. The translation of the Polish text is:
"The current situation at the Topola reservoir seen from the helicopter."
The location is 50.48, 16.95. It seems that the spillway has failed. Immediately downstream is another reservoir. https://t.co/nR13xVMULG

— Dave Petley (@davepetley) September 16, 2024

Since Sep 13, more rain has fallen in south-west Poland than during the so-called millennium flood of 1997, and the alert level has been exceeded at 47 gauging stations across the country. In Austria meanwhile, 42 municipalities have been declared disaster zones as flood levels in the country continued to rise. The situation is particularly tense along the rivers Kamp and Kremps, which flow into the Danube. Stephan Pernkopf, deputy governor of Lower Austria, said that the region’s flood defences – strengthened after severe flooding in 2002 – were designed to withstand floods occurring statistically once every 100 years. However, with heavy rain expected to continue, meteorologists are warning that the situation could get worse. They say the Danube could reach levels seen once every 30 years in Austria’s Weinviertel and Mostviertel regions. https://www.anews.com.tr/world/2024/09/15/dam-burst-in-poland-triggers-historic-flooding-across-central-europe  (15 Sept. 2024)

Germany’s deadly floods spread along Danube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4lmFMJ9ahM  (05 June 2024)

Switzerland This is a fish ladder. It allows fish to get around a dam.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/8FGZFXQwcYvNTzck/

THE REST OF THE WORLD

Nigeria Floods affect 1 million people after dam collapse The collapse of a dam in northeast Nigeria has caused severe flooding, destroying thousands of homes and worsening a dire humanitarian crisis. The flooding in Borno State has affected a million people, the state governor said on Sept 11, straining resources as authorities scramble to rescue residents and place them in temporary shelters. Heavy rains had caused a dam to overflow on Sept 10, decimating a state-owned zoo and washing crocodiles and snakes into flooded communities. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/9/11/nigeria-floods-affect-one-million-people-after-dam-collapse  (11 Sept. 2024)

Dam collapse sweeps deadly reptiles into flooded communities Officials in northeastern Borneo say that a dam collapse has unleashed severe flooding that has prompted evacuations and has swept deadly reptiles from a zoo into communities in the area. The Alau dam collapsed Tuesday in northeastern Nigeria unleashing severe flooding that prompted evacuations and swept deadly reptiles from a zoo into communities in the area, local officials and a zoo manager said. The same dam had also collapsed 30 years ago. No death toll from the flooding has been released yet. https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/dam-collapse-nigeria-sweeps-deadly-reptiles-flooded-communities-113554817  (10 Sept. 2024)

USA Dam can worsen coastal flooding The common practice of building dams to prevent flooding can actually contribute to more intense coastal flood events, according to a new study. The study, published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Oceans (https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023JC020498), studied the effects of dams built in coastal estuaries, where rivers and ocean tides interact. Those massive infrastructure projects are surging in popularity globally, in part to help offset intensifying storms, salt intrusion and sea-level rise fueled by climate change. By analyzing data and measurements from Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, dating back more than a century, researchers determined that coastal dams don’t necessarily mitigate flooding.

– “We usually think about storm surges becoming smaller as you go inland, but the shape of the basin can actually cause it to become larger,” said lead author Steven Dykstra, an assistant professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences. Estuaries are typically shaped like a funnel, narrowing as they go inland. Introducing a dam shortens the estuary with an artificial wall that reflects storm surge waves moving inland. Dykstra compared those storm-fueled waves to splashes in a bathtub, with certain wave frequencies causing water to slosh over the sides.

– After using Charleston Harbor as a case study, researchers used computer modeling to gauge the flood response at 23 other estuaries in diverse geographic areas. Those encompassed both dammed and naturally occurring estuary systems, including Cook Inlet in Alaska. The models confirmed that the basin shape and alterations that shorten it with a dam are the key component in determining how storm surges and tides move inland. At the right amplitude and duration, waves in dammed environments grow instead of diminishing. https://www.uaf.edu/news/dams-built-to-prevent-coastal-flooding-can-worsen-it.php  (12 Sept. 2024)

Ethiopia Rainwater initiative expands clean water access to millions Ethiopia is turning to alternative water sources, including pond water harvesting, as a crucial strategy to cope with widespread water scarcity. Alongside traditional rooftop water harvesting, pond water collection is emerging as a vital source of potable water in the country. According to recent reports from the Ethiopian Water Project, only 42  per cent of the population has access to clean drinking water, with a mere 11 per cent having access to adequate sanitation services. Over the past two decades, droughts have severely impacted many regions, leaving ponds, wells and streams either dry or dangerously shallow.

– To address these challenges, the Ministry of Water and Energy launched the national rainwater harvesting initiative, My Dam at My Door. This project has expanded access to clean water across the country, reaching nearly 70 per cent of the population. A study by the Ministry of Water and Energy found that Ethiopia is better suited for rooftop rainwater harvesting over the pond technique, with over 95 per cent of the country being viable for this technique. In contrast, only 57 per cent of Ethiopia is suitable for pond rainwater harvesting, with areas receiving less than 200 mm of annual rainfall being particularly challenging for the latter method. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/amp/story/africa/africas-rain-harvesters-ethiopias-rainwater-initiative-expands-clean-water-access-to-millions  (11 Sept. 2024)

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

Also see: DRP News Bulletin 09 Sept. 2024 & DRP News Bulletin 02 Sept. 2024  

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