While Himachal Pradesh government is making efforts to harness the hydro-power potential of rivers in the state, projects already functioning are now facing allegations of not releasing required level of water downstream thus posing threat to aquatic life due to water scarcity.
Based on a complaint, National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPPCB) to look into the matter and take appropriate action in accordance with law.
NGT has also asked HPPCB to furnish a report in the matter within one month.
An application was moved before the principal bench of NGT alleging that hydro-stations in Himachal Pradesh are not measuring the flow rate of water released downstream during the lean season.
Scarcity of water, therefore, is causing higher pollution level and harm to aquatic life. The application states that about 15-20% of average lean season flow was required to be maintained.
Keeping in mind the fragile ecology of environment and to address issues concerning riparian water rights, drinking water, health, aquatic life, wild life, fisheries, silt and even to honour sensitive religious matters the hydro power projects in state have to ensure minimum flow of 15 per cent water downstream of the diversion structure at all times, including lean season which stretches from November to March.
Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, directed the HPPCB to look into the matter and take appropriate action in accordance with law and furnish a factual and action-taken report within a month.
The tribunal would conduct further hearing on September 25.
Reference- Economic Times