In a Question Hour discussion on Tuesday, Minister of State for Environment and Forest Jayanthi Natarajan allayed all apprehension over violation of environment norms in construction of dams in the North-east.
Natarajan, referring to dam projects in the North-east, said there are specific steps for wildlife management that are laid down in the rules of environment and wildlife clearances. These are all considered by the National Board for Wildlife. “Specific rules are laid down," she added.
About adverse impact of Subansiri dam project on aquatics, Natarajan said dolphin has been declared a ‘National Aquatic Animal." We are extremely conscious of the need to preserve the dolphins. We will continue to take steps to make sure that there is no danger to any dolphin in any area, either in the Subansiri area or in any other area.
“It is not the depth of the dam alone, it is the entire run of the river that we need to see," the Minister said in reply.
The Minister was replying to a question by Kumar Deepak Das over adverse downstream impact of Subansiri hydropower project. He wanted to know whether the ministry has given any clearance to Subansiri hydro project, for continuation of the work.
“A minimum of three metre depth should be maintained in the dolphin habitat around Brahamputra and other rivers. There is a need for taking steps for preserving dolphins. The minimum water depth has not been maintained in the construction of the Subansiri hydro project.
Earlier, referring to major environmental offenders, Das alleged that the violation is being done in connivance with the State Pollution Control Boards. The State Pollution Control Board is also involved in this.
The National Green Tribunal has also submitted a report to the Government of India about various anti-environmental activities in the National Parks of our State, including Kaziranga. There exists unchecked growth of hospitality activities in close confines of the park. Quarrying and mining are being carried out there," he further alleged. Read the full report here.
Source: Special Correspondent, The Assam Tribune, New Delhi.
