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Young Scientists Challenge Mega Projects in India
28 Sep
Summary
- Scientists are documenting local biodiversity and cultural ties.
- Data reveals discrepancies in official environmental impact assessments.
- Young researchers collect evidence to support local opposition.
Young scientists from Thane, Pune, and Mumbai are actively supporting local communities in Murbad who are opposing the Kalu Dam and Malshej Ghat Pumped Storage Project (PSP). These researchers are conducting detailed biodiversity surveys and documenting the deep cultural connections between local tribal communities and the landscape.
Their aim is to generate scientific evidence strong enough to be used in legal challenges against the projects. Initial findings have already identified significant discrepancies, with nearly double the species count compared to the draft environmental impact assessment for the PSP. Researchers are also noting errors in the draft EIA, such as misattributed fish species data.
The Adani Group, involved in the PSP, has stated that project assessments show no anticipated impact on local flora, fauna, or communities. However, local opposition, supported by scientific data, continues to grow, with several villages passing resolutions against the projects.
