Home / Environment / Tiger Reserve Project Delayed Over Ecological Fears
Tiger Reserve Project Delayed Over Ecological Fears
11 Jul
Summary
- Project deferred due to location within protected tiger reserve.
- Alternative sites outside reserve are now under consideration.
- Ecological impact on wildlife habitats is a major concern.
The Union Environment Ministry's Expert Appraisal Committee has postponed approving Terms of Reference for the ₹1,875-crore Koraiyar reservoir project. The project, proposed in Tirunelveli district, is facing scrutiny due to its planned location within the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR), a protected area of high ecological importance.
The committee has instructed the Water Resources Department to investigate alternative sites beyond the KMTR. The reservoir's original plan aimed to irrigate 9,091.5 hectares, harness monsoon flood flows, and aid groundwater recharge. However, the potential impact on tiger habitats and endemic species has become a significant obstacle.
Significant land, including forest land, would be submerged by the proposed 43-metre dam. The committee noted that the project proponent had not yet secured Stage-I forest clearance. Concerns were also raised about the lack of thorough examination of alternative locations.
Alternative sites within the Chittar river basin, outside the tiger reserve, were suggested. These could potentially meet irrigation goals with reduced environmental impact and lower investment. The committee is awaiting a comprehensive analysis of these alternatives, including site-specific studies and ecological assessments.
