What is the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation's proposed project near Malshej Ghat?

The Tehri Hydro Development Corporation has proposed a 1,200 MW pumped hydropower project in the Kalu River valley, near Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra.

Are there environmental concerns with the Malshej Ghat hydropower project?

Yes, three villages in the project area are designated as eco-sensitive, and the project is located near a wildlife sanctuary, prompting environmental impact assessment.

What is a pumped storage hydropower project like the one proposed for Malshej Ghat?

Pumped storage hydropower uses elevation differences between two reservoirs, pumping water up and releasing it through turbines during high demand to generate electricity.

Home / Environment / Eco-Sensitive Ghats May Host Mega Hydropower Project

Eco-Sensitive Ghats May Host Mega Hydropower Project

22 Nov

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Summary

A 1,200 MW pumped hydropower project is proposed near Malshej Ghat.
Three villages in the project area are designated eco-sensitive.
The project requires 310 hectares, including 74 hectares of forest land.

Eco-Sensitive Ghats May Host Mega Hydropower Project

An expert panel has given preliminary approval for a 1,200 MW pumped hydropower project proposed by the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation in the Kalu River valley, near Maharashtra's Malshej Ghat. This project, estimated to cost Rs 6,815 crore, involves constructing a rock-filled dam for an upper reservoir.

Of significant concern is that three villages within the project's footprint are designated as eco-sensitive in the Centre's 2024 draft notification for Western Ghats protection. The project site is also located just 3 km from the Kalsubai Harishchandragad wildlife sanctuary, necessitating careful environmental impact assessment.

The proposed project will utilize a closed-loop system, meaning it won't continuously draw water from the river. It requires 310 hectares of land, with 74 hectares designated as forest land. The environmental clearance process will involve public hearings and a site visit by a sub-committee.

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