By Our Staff Reporter
New Delhi, 29 Apr: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami called on Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil here today and discussed the progress of proposed hydropower projects in Uttarakhand. The leaders also discussed the development and construction of hydropower projects aimed at accelerating Uttarakhand’s social and economic growth.
During the meeting, Dhami sought Central approval for eight hydropower projects, including seven with a combined capacity of 647 MW and another project of 114 MW capacity.
Dhami reiterated Uttarakhand government’s commitment to ensuring cleanliness, an uninterrupted flow of water, and environmental conservation of the Ganga and other rivers. He also stressed that the state is pursuing sustainable development in alignment with expert recommendations.
The CM reminded the Union Minister that the 114 MW Sela Urthing Hydroelectric Project, located in Pithoragarh on Dhauliganga, does not fall within the Ganga basin. He noted that Uttarakhand does not impose restrictions on hydroelectric projects in river valleys outside the Ganga and its tributaries. In light of the facts, the Union Minister was urged by the CM to approve the project and issue necessary directives to officials.
Additionally, Dhami requested approval for seven other hydroelectric projects with a combined power generation capacity of 647 MW. He claimed that these projects ‘align’ with the recommendations of the committee chaired by the Cabinet Secretary of the Government of India and the requests put forth by the Uttarakhand government.
