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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.