BJD Protests Against Polavaram Project Developments

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), led by Naveen Patnaik, is protesting the Polavaram multipurpose project in Andhra Pradesh. The party claims the project threatens tribal lands in Malkangiri, Odisha. Recent meetings with central officials have focused on demanding a new backwater impact study. Officials have dismissed these actions as political theatrics, asserting that 75% of the project is complete.

Overview of the Polavaram Multipurpose Project

The Polavaram project is an interstate initiative on the Godavari River. It was conceived in 1980 following the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal recommendations. An agreement between Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha allowed construction with a planned reservoir height of 150 feet. The project was declared national in 2014, mandating the Union government to oversee its execution.

BJD’s Concerns

The BJD argues that modifications to the project’s design have increased flood discharge capacity from 36 lakh cusecs to 50 lakh cusecs. This change allegedly disregards potential backwater effects on Odisha and Chhattisgarh. The party warns that nearly 162 villages in Malkangiri could be submerged. They claim the maximum backwater level could rise to 174.22 feet, exceeding the original limit.

Previous Actions by BJD

During its long tenure in power from 2000 to 2024, the BJD actively opposed the project. In 2007, they filed a suit in the Supreme Court challenging various clearances. The party also urged Prime Ministers Manmohan Singh and Narendra Modi to halt construction and reassess the project’s impact on Odisha.

Current Political Context

Following their electoral defeat to the BJP, the BJD has intensified its opposition to the project. The party aims to reposition itself as a defender of Odisha’s interests, suggesting that the BJP prioritises Andhra Pradesh over Odisha. This narrative seeks to strengthen the BJD’s regional identity amid political challenges.

Concerns from Other States

States like Chhattisgarh and Telangana have also raised objections to the Polavaram project. In 2011, Chhattisgarh contested the project in court, leading to an inspection by the Central Water Commission. The Supreme Court’s reports confirmed compliance with the original project plans, but the matter remains unresolved.

Conclusion

The ongoing dispute over the Polavaram project marks complex regional dynamics and the interplay between state and national interests. The BJD’s renewed protests reflect deeper political strategies as they navigate their role in Odisha’s governance.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the implications of interstate water disputes in India.
2. Discuss in the light of regional politics, how the Biju Janata Dal’s stance on the Polavaram project reflects its governance strategy.
3. What are the environmental impacts of large-scale multipurpose projects like Polavaram? Explain.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the role of Supreme Court in resolving inter-state disputes in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the implications of interstate water disputes in India.

1. Interstate water disputes often lead to political tensions and conflicts among states.
2. They can hinder cooperative water management and sustainable development efforts.
3. Disputes may affect agricultural productivity and access to water for local communities.
4. Legal frameworks like the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act play important role in resolution.
5. Such disputes can also impact regional economic growth and infrastructure development.

2. Discuss in the light of regional politics, how the Biju Janata Dal’s stance on the Polavaram project reflects its governance strategy.

1. The BJD uses the project to rally support among local tribal populations concerned about land loss.
2. It positions itself as a defender of Odisha’s interests against perceived neglect by the central government.
3. The party’s opposition aligns with its long-standing political narrative of regional autonomy and rights.
4. BJD aims to regain political traction after losing power by denoting environmental and social concerns.
5. This stance helps solidify its regional identity amidst national political dynamics.

3. What are the environmental impacts of large-scale multipurpose projects like Polavaram? Explain.

1. Such projects can lead to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity.
2. They often result in altered water flow patterns, affecting ecosystems downstream.
3. Large-scale displacement of communities, particularly indigenous populations, can occur.
4. Potential for increased flooding and submergence of land due to changes in discharge capacity.
5. Environmental degradation may arise from construction activities and altered land use.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the role of Supreme Court in resolving inter-state disputes in India.

1. The Supreme Court adjudicates disputes based on the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, as seen in the Krishna and Cauvery river cases.
2. It appoints commissions to investigate and report on the matters, ensuring informed judgments.
3. The court’s rulings can set precedents that influence future disputes and water-sharing agreements.
4. Examples include the Supreme Court’s involvement in the Mahanadi water dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
5. Its decisions often emphasize the need for equitable sharing and sustainable management of water resources.