Himalayan rivers face a hydropower surge | Science
In May 2023, India’s Forest Advisory Committee greenlit the controversial Etalin Hydropower Project, which is set to generate a staggering 3,097 megawatts of hydroelectric power. This ambitious initiative involves the construction of dams on the Dri and Tangon rivers, necessitating the diversion of water from a significant 1,175 hectares of forested land, which equates to the loss of approximately 278,000 trees. This project is part of India’s broader strategy to bolster its energy security and transition towards cleaner energy sources. However, the environmental implications of such a large-scale project cannot be overlooked. The Himalayan region, where these rivers are located, is not only crucial for biodiversity but also serves as a lifeline for the local communities that depend on these waterways for their livelihoods.
In a parallel development, China’s Lower Yarlung Tsangpo Hydropower Project, which began in July 2023, poses additional challenges to the intricate ecological balance of the region. This project is expected to alter the water flow into India’s Brahmaputra River, raising concerns about water availability and quality for millions of people downstream. While hydropower is often heralded as a clean energy solution, the environmental threats posed by such projects are significant. They can disrupt local ecosystems, displace communities, and lead to long-term ecological damage. Experts emphasize the importance of regional collaboration to address these challenges, suggesting that cooperative efforts among countries sharing these vital water resources could help mitigate environmental and societal risks while ensuring energy security.
The juxtaposition of India’s and China’s hydropower initiatives highlights the delicate interplay between energy needs and environmental stewardship in the Himalayas. As nations pursue aggressive energy strategies to meet growing demands, the potential consequences on biodiversity and local communities must be carefully considered. The future of these projects will largely depend on the ability of regional stakeholders to engage in dialogue and find sustainable solutions that balance energy development with ecological preservation.
In May, India’s Forest Advisory Committee approved the Etalin Hydropower Project, which aims to generate 3097 MW of hydroelectric power to meet the country’s energy needs. This will require building dams on the Dri and Tangon rivers, which will divert water away from 1175 ha of forest (278,000 trees) (1, 2). Similarly, China’s Lower Yarlung Tsangpo Hydropower Project, which commenced in July, will affect water flow into India’s Brahmaputra River (3). Although hydropower can provide energy security and support the transition to clean energy, these and other Himalayan rivers are vital for biodiversity and for the livelihoods of local communities. Hydropower projects pose environmental threats. Regional collaboration could mitigate environmental and societal risks while safeguarding energy security.
Eric
Eric is a seasoned journalist covering Health news.
