New Delhi: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has urged the Union government to expedite consideration of key infrastructure projects and address the state’s environmental concerns during a meeting with Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav in New Delhi.
Shivakumar submitted a set of requests covering the Sharavathy pumped storage project, the Mekedatu drinking water project, the Western Ghats eco-sensitive area notification and the inclusion of a sugar factory within an eco-sensitive zone.
The Chief Minister sought early consideration and recommendation of the proposed 2,000 MW Sharavathy Pumped Storage Project, stating that Karnataka had submitted the required clarifications and the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS) report sought by the Standing Committee.
He also requested early consideration of the geo-technical survey proposal for the Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir and Drinking Water Project, which involves drilling 20 boreholes. According to the state government, the proposal does not currently involve diversion of the protected area.
On the Western Ghats, Shivakumar sought deferment of the finalisation of the seventh draft notification identifying ecologically sensitive areas until the state government’s High-Level Committee submits its report and the physical survey is completed within a year.
The Chief Minister also sought the removal of Eco Cane Sugar Energy Limited from the Eco-Sensitive Zone, stating that the factory was established before 2016 and supports more than 500 workers and 5,000 families.
The state government said it remained committed to balancing environmental protection with sustainable development, energy and water security, and the livelihoods of people in Karnataka.
