Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project Approved by NBWL Despite Ecological Concerns
Key Points
The Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project in Karnataka has received in-principle approval from the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), despite ecological concerns about the Sharavathi Valley Lion-tailed Macaque Sanctuary. This project is crucial for enhancing grid stability and renewable energy, relevant for UPSC GS Paper 3. Last Updated: 2025-08-06
Key Facts About Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project
- Project Location: Karnataka, India
- Approval Body: National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)
- Ecological Concerns: Impact on Sharavathi Valley Lion-tailed Macaque Sanctuary
- Project Capacity: 2,000 MW
- Pumped Storage: Between Gerusoppa and Talakalale Dams
- Wildlife Sanctuary Area: 431.23 sq km
- Notable Species: Lion-tailed macaques, tigers, bison
- NBWL Established: 2003
- NBWL Composition: 47 members, chaired by the Prime Minister
- Threats to Lion-Tailed Macaques: Habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict
- Conservation Status: Endangered (IUCN Red List)
- Current Population: Approximately 4,200 individuals
India's Renewable Energy and Ecological Balance
The Sharavathi project is a significant step towards India's renewable energy goals, aiming to stabilize the grid with a capacity of 2,000 MW. However, it poses a challenge to ecological balance, particularly affecting the Sharavathi Valley Lion-tailed Macaque Sanctuary. India's commitment to increasing its renewable energy capacity must be balanced with its biodiversity conservation efforts, a critical aspect of its strategic environmental goals.
Related Government Schemes/Policies
- National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Focuses on promoting sustainable development and enhancing ecological sustainability.
- Forest Conservation Act, 1980: Regulates the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 1: Geography - Impact of projects on biodiversity
- GS Paper 2: Governance - Role of NBWL in project approvals
- GS Paper 3: Environment - Renewable energy projects and ecological concerns
- Prelims Angle: Questions on NBWL, Lion-tailed macaques, and pumped storage technology
- Mains Angle: Essays on balancing development and conservation, analysis of India's renewable energy policies
FAQ Section
- What is the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project?
The Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project is a renewable energy initiative in Karnataka, designed to enhance grid stability with a capacity of 2,000 MW.
- Why is the Sharavathi Project important?
It is crucial for India's renewable energy goals, aiming to provide stable power supply while posing ecological challenges to the Sharavathi Valley Lion-tailed Macaque Sanctuary.
- What are the key features of the Sharavathi Project?
The project involves pumped storage between Gerusoppa and Talakalale Dams, impacting a 431.23 sq km wildlife sanctuary, home to endangered species like the lion-tailed macaque.
Detailed Coverage
- Project Location: Karnataka, India
- Approval Body: National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)
- Ecological Concerns: Impact on Sharavathi Valley Lion-tailed Macaque Sanctuary
- Project Capacity: 2,000 MW
- Pumped Storage: Between Gerusoppa and Talakalale Dams
- Wildlife Sanctuary Area: 431.23 sq km
- Notable Species: Lion-tailed macaques, tigers, bison
- Major Attractions: Jog Falls, Linganamakki Reservoir
- NBWL Established: 2003
- NBWL Composition: 47 members, chaired by the Prime Minister
- Key Functions: Advise on wildlife policies, approve projects
- Threats to Lion-Tailed Macaques: Habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict
- Conservation Status: Endangered (IUCN Red List)
- Current Population: Approximately 4,200 individuals
- Research Findings: Behavioral adaptations based on human presence