By this month-end, the Centre will decide the fate of 24 hydroelectric power projects to be set up on Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers. An expert panel, which is studying the environmental and ecological impact of these projects post the tragedy that struck Uttarakhand two years ago, is expected to share its findings, revealed the Centre in its submissions to the Supreme Court. The apex court is monitoring the continuation of the hydro power projects which has been stuck subject to the report of the expert panel.
Appearing for Centre, Additional Solicitor General PS Narasimha informed the Court that the expert panel comprising a host of experts in fields of ecology and environment had held several meetings and are in process of finalising the report by October 31. Once the report is available, the Centre will file the report with regard to each pending project.
The Bench of Justices Dipak Misra and PC Pant posted the matter for November 15 seeking parties appearing for the companies, PIl petitioners and State Government to file their replies or objections to the report. The 24 projects include firms like NTPC, NHPC, THDC, GMR Hydro Power General Pvt ltd and Super Hydro Pvt ltd.