The recent uproar from multiple green collectives and environmental organizations is centered around their protests against the Anakkayam Small Hydro Electric Project in Kerala. Situated closely to the Athirapally Hydel Electric Project, the site of the project has sparked major concerns among environmentalists. With the project unfolding in the buffer zone of the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve (PTR) and inclining to the establishment of a 5.617-km-long tunnel within the forest, several key issues have arisen.
Key Aspects of the Anakkayam Small Hydro Electric Project
A significant feature of this upcoming project is its positioning in the buffer zone of the PTR. Alongside, the project implies significant infrastructural changes such as creating a lengthy tunnel within the lush forest. The aftermath of these alterations is expected to create a ripple effect on the ecological balance.
Environmental Consequences Tied to the Project
Implementation of the project would compel approximately 20 hectares of deforestation, leading to the clearance of nearly 1900 large trees and a more substantial number of smaller trees. The area, already categorized as ecologically sensitive due to the occurrence of a massive landslide in 2018, is predicted to witness colossal loss in terms of biodiversity. The destruction will not just be limited to the flora but spans over to various fauna species found in this region.
Concerns Regarding Absence of Consent
The project was approved without obtaining consent from the local Kadar tribe, who possess the right of Community Forest Resources (CFR) according to the Forest Rights Act, 2006. The land proposed for the project coincides with the 400 sq km of forest land granted to the Kadar tribe as CFR. This tribe has been bestowed the responsibility of protecting and conserving the habitat, making their approval even more crucial.
Insights on the Athirapally Hydel Electric Project
The Athirapally Hydro Electric Project (AHEP) was approved by the Kerala government in June 2020. Situated on the Chalakudy river in the Thrissur district of Kerala, this project has also been subjected to numerous oppositions and protests. The root cause being its projected detrimental effects on the already fragile river ecosystem at Athirappilly and various other associated environmental threats.
About Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, a well-protected ecological portion in the Nelliampathy-Anamalai landscape of the Southern Western Ghats in India, is located in the Palakkad District of Kerala. It earned the status of a Tiger Reserve during 2008-09. Being home to the world’s first scientifically managed teak plantation, the reserve also houses the largest and oldest teak tree, named “Kannimara,” reportedly 350 years old.
Hence, the Anakkayam Small Hydro Electric Project, despite promising development and energy generation, raises profound questions about its environmental implications, infringement of tribal rights, and potential harm to the delicate ecosystems of Kerala.
Last Modified: February 9, 2024