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Forests Fall for Power: Tribes Lose Homes
2 Nov
Summary
- 32,000 trees to be cleared for a 3,000-MW power plant.
- Tribal families face loss of livelihood and natural resources.
- Deforestation may impact rainfall in distant regions.
A controversial 3,000-MW pumped-storage hydropower project in Maharashtra's Western Ghats is proceeding, with plans to clear more than 32,000 trees. The project, costing Rs 13,505 crore and expected by 2029, has already seen the felling of approximately 1,100 trees near Karjat.
This deforestation directly impacts indigenous Katkari tribal families who rely on the forest for firewood, food, and traditional medicines. They were not adequately recorded under forest rights, leading to a lack of compensation for their ancestral dependence on the land.
Ecological concerns are also mounting, as a study indicates that clearing such a vast forest area could disrupt moisture transport, potentially reducing rainfall in distant regions like the Cauvery basin.
While the project aims to reduce Maharashtra's reliance on coal-fired power, critics highlight the significant conservation and human rights issues. The project also affects an area previously designated for high protection by an expert panel.
Torrent Power, the developer, has stated plans for a hospital and job creation, while acknowledging the need for conservation measures and promising to use rainwater for the reservoirs.
