BJP Sikkim demands immediate halt to Teesta-III Hydropower Project approval over environmental concerns
BJP Sikkim expressed confidence that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the government would act swiftly to address these concerns and prevent any further harm to Sikkim’s environment and its people.
LOCAL
The BJP Sikkim has officially written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Bhupendra Yadav, urging immediate action regarding the clearance granted for the controversial Teesta-III Hydropower Project. The letter, written by BJP Sikkim President D.R. Thapa, raises concerns over the lack of scientific reassessment, outdated public consultation, and potential environmental risks associated with the project.
On January 10, 2025, the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) granted clearance to the Teesta-III Hydropower Project, which has faced severe opposition due to the devastating consequences of the October 4, 2023, South Lhonak glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF). The disaster led to the destruction of the previous Teesta-III dam and tragically claimed the lives of 40 individuals. In light of this, BJP Sikkim stresses that the approval fails to address critical safety and environmental concerns, and a thorough reassessment is urgently needed.
BJP Sikkim has outlined three key demands in the letter:
- The approval should be suspended until the completion of all pending scientific studies, including a revised assessment of Probable Maximum Flood (PMF), and an independent verification of the findings.
- A fresh Environmental Impact Assessment ( EIA ) should be conducted, taking into account the updated climate data, GLOF risks, and the evolving hydrological conditions in the region, which were not adequately considered in the original assessment.
- The public consultation held in 2006 is no longer relevant, as it predates the recent environmental changes and disaster. A new hearing must be held to allow Sikkim’s citizens to voice their concerns and participate meaningfully in the decision-making process.
The BJP Sikkim stated the importance of balancing development with environmental responsibility, highlighting that the Teesta River is vital to the state’s ecology and economy. The party stressed that the future of the river should be handled with the utmost care, prioritizing the safety and sustainability of the region.
BJP Sikkim expressed confidence that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the government would act swiftly to address these concerns and prevent any further harm to Sikkim’s environment and its people. The party reaffirmed its commitment to responsible and sustainable development, ensuring the protection of the state’s fragile ecology for future generations.