Sharavati Hydroelectric Project

GS III-Infrastructure

Context:

Karnataka’s Sharavati Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project (PSHP), a ₹8,000 crore initiative, faces environmental concerns and corruption allegations.

About the Project:

• Capacity: 2,000 MW pumped storage system.
• Reservoirs Used: Talakalale (upper) & Gerusoppa (lower).
• Function: Water is pumped uphill during off-peak hours and released to generate electricity.
• Infrastructure: Includes tunnels and pumping stations for Bengaluru’s drinking water supply.

Concerns:

1. Environmental Impact:
   • Deforestation: 360 acres of Sharavathi Valley Lion-Tailed Macaque Wildlife Sanctuary will be cleared.
   • Threatened Species: Lion-Tailed Macaque, Great Indian Hornbill at risk.
   • Habitat Disruption: Wildlife corridor between Gerusoppa-Kyadagire & Govardhanagiri-Jog forests will be affected.
2. Legal Violations:
   • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Violates Section 29, which restricts habitat destruction in sanctuaries.
   • Procurement Law Breach: Tender period of 21 days violates Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements Act, 1999.
3. Energy Efficiency Concerns:
   • Karnataka’s peak power demand rose by 62% in 8 years.
   • However, the project consumes 24% more electricity than it generates, making it inefficient.

About Sharavati River:

• Location: Western Karnataka; flows 128 km westward into the Arabian Sea at Honavar.
• Hydropower Contribution: Generates 40% of Karnataka’s hydropower.
• Jog Falls: One of India’s highest waterfalls (253m drop).
• Tributaries: Haridravathi, Hilkunji, Mavinahole, Yennehole, Hurlihole, Nandihole, and Nagodihole.