Shivamogga

: Environmentalists fighting to save the

Sharavathi Valley

on Monday opposed the proposed thousand crore

pumped storage electricity generation

project and drinking water plans in the protected valley, which serves as a habitat for the lion-tailed macaque.
The environmentalists announced plans for a large-scale demonstration in Shivamogga on March 19 to oppose the projects. The Sharavathi Nadi Kanive Ulisi Horata Okkuta leader, Sagar-based activist

Akhilesh Chipli

, told reporters that the demonstration targets both the Sharavathi Integrated Hydropower Project and the proposal to divert the Sharavathi River to Bengaluru.
Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) is proceeding with integrated hydropower development without adhering to regulatory guidelines. The authorities have prepared a DPR for the projects. When RTI requests were made for the report, access was denied. "Despite KPCL's assurances about project cancellation and DPR submission following an appeal, concerns persist about their credibility," he stated.
The initiatives pose risks to both environmental systems and communities residing downstream of the Sharavathi River until its confluence with the sea at Honnavar in neighbouring Uttara Kannada district. The situation presents a stark contrast: Honnavar requires freshwater for agriculture and fishing, while the power generated would serve Bengaluru's commercial centres. "Project approval would displace numerous families. Similar to the Yettinahole project affecting the Netravathi River, this initiative lacks scientific basis and transparency. It threatens pristine forest areas and could contribute to climate change issues. The project appears to be an inappropriate use of public funds," he stated.

A demonstration and public meeting are scheduled at Seenappa Shetty Circle (Gopi Circle), with participation expected from religious leaders and environmental advocates.
The Siddaramaiah administration allocated funds for the Sharavathi pumped storage project, which aims to reuse water for power generation between Talakalale and Gerusoppa of Sagar. Environmentalists noted that while a DPR exists, it remains undisclosed to avoid complications. The administration is reassessing its plan to channel river water to Bengaluru. The organisation previously conducted protests against drinking water projects in 2017 and 2023.
BLURB
The Sharavathi Nadi Kanive Ulisi Horata Okkuta leader, activist Akhilesh Chipli, said the demonstration targets both the Sharavathi Integrated Hydropower Project and the proposal to divert Sharavathi River to Bengaluru