Syllabus: GS- III &V: Ecology, Infrastructure 

Why in the News?

The proposed Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project in Arunachal Pradesh has come into focus after environmental concerns were raised over diversion of forest land in the habitat of the Critically Endangered White-Bellied Heron.

• The proposal is currently being examined by the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

About the Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project

• The Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project (HEP) is a proposed 1,200 Megawatt hydropower project on the Lohit River, a major tributary of the Brahmaputra.
• It is located in Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh, near the India-China border, making it strategically important as well.
• The project is being developed jointly by THDC India Limited and the Government of Arunachal Pradesh.
• Estimated project cost is around Rs 14,176 crore.

Key Features of the Project

• It is a Run-of-the-River project with pondage, meaning it uses the natural river flow with limited water storage.
• The project includes:
  • Construction of a 128.5 metre concrete gravity dam.
  • An underground powerhouse for electricity generation.
• Around 869 hectares of semi-evergreen forest land is proposed to be diverted for the project.

Significance of the Project

• Arunachal Pradesh has one of the highest hydropower potentials in India, estimated at over 50,000 Megawatts.
• The project can contribute to:
  • India’s renewable energy targets.
  • Energy security in Northeast India.
  • Border infrastructure development.
  • Employment and economic growth in remote regions.

Environmental Concerns

• The major concern relates to the White-Bellied Heron (Ardea insignis) that survives mainly in river ecosystems of Bhutan, Myanmar and Northeast India.
• Researchers have recorded the bird’s presence in the Lohit river basin both upstream and downstream of the project site.
• However, reports submitted during the clearance process reportedly stated that no rare or endangered species were present in the diversion area, leading to criticism.

About White-Bellied Heron The White-Bellied Heron (Ardea insignis) is a large heron species. It is the second largest living species of heron. It is one of the world’s rarest and most threatened bird species. It inhabits the wetlands of tropical and subtropical forests in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas. It is found mainly in the riverine ecosystems of Northeast India, Bhutan and Myanmar. In India, its important habitats include parts of Arunachal Pradesh, especially along the Lohit River basin. It is considered an indicator of a healthy river ecosystem. Conservation of the species also helps protect fragile Himalayan biodiversity and freshwater habitats. Key Features It is a large heron with a dark grey body and distinctive white belly. It has a slightly longer neck and compact body with shorter legs and extensive toes. The extra elongated, flexible neck with razorsharp serrated bill allows them to catch fish far in deep waters. Usually found near undisturbed rivers, wetlands and forest streams. The bird feeds mainly on fish, amphibians and small aquatic animals. Conservation Status Listed as Critically Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which provides the highest level of legal protection in India. Major Threats Habitat destruction due to hydroelectric projects, deforestation and river modification. Disturbance from human activities and infrastructure development. Declining freshwater ecosystems in the Eastern Himalayas.

Compensatory Afforestation Issue

• Since Arunachal Pradesh already has very high forest cover, compensatory plantation for diverted forest land has been proposed in Madhya Pradesh.
• Experts argue that forests of one ecological region cannot fully replace biodiversity lost in another sensitive Himalayan ecosystem.

Important Environmental Institutions Involved

• Forest Advisory Committee (FAC): Examines forest diversion proposals under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
• Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC): Assesses environmental impacts before granting environmental clearance.
• Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change: Grants final approvals.

Broader Significance

• The Kalai-II debate highlights the challenge of balancing:
  • Development and ecology
  • Renewable energy and biodiversity conservation
  • Strategic infrastructure and environmental sustainability
• The fragile Himalayan ecosystem requires scientific planning, proper impact assessment and community participation before large infrastructure projects are approved.

Important Terms Explained

• Run-of-the-River Project: Hydropower project using natural river flow with limited storage.
• Compensatory Afforestation: Plantation carried out to compensate for diverted forest land.
• Biodiversity Hotspot: Region with rich biodiversity under threat.
• Schedule I Species: Species receiving highest legal protection under Indian wildlife law.
• Concrete Gravity Dam: Dam that resists water pressure mainly through its own weight.
• Forest Advisory Committee: Statutory body dealing with forest land diversion proposals.

Exam Hook – Key Takeaways

• Kalai-II Project is located on the Lohit River in Arunachal Pradesh.
• It is a 1,200 Megawatt Run-of-the-River Hydroelectric Project.
• The project may impact the habitat of the White-Bellied Heron.
• Forest diversion proposal is under examination by the Forest Advisory Committee.
• Highlights the balance between clean energy development and ecological conservation.

 Mains Question

“Hydropower development in the Himalayan region must balance strategic needs with ecological sustainability.” Discuss with reference to the Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project.

One Line Wrap

• The Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project reflects India’s clean energy ambitions, but also underlines the urgent need to protect fragile Himalayan ecosystems and endangered wildlife.

Proposal for Arunachal’s Kalai-II hydel project skips mentioning ‘endangered bird habitat’ | India News – The Indian Express