The Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project to be Executed with Minimal Environmental Impact: George

Kalpa Media House | Bangalore |

Energy Minister KJ George and Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Ishwar Khandre, in a display of unity and shared responsibility, convened a high-level meeting. This meeting brought together senior officials from both departments to discuss the implementation of the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project. The meeting’s focus was to ensure that the project proceeds without harming the forest or environment, a goal they are both committed to.

Energy Department officials, led by Minister KJ George, assured Forest Minister Ishwar Khandre that the pumped storage project, part of the existing Sharavati Jal Vidyut Yojana, will result in minimal forest impact. With this assurance, the Forest Minister directed his department to prepare and submit a proposal for the necessary permissions from the Central government within the next month.
Energy Minister K. J. George stated, “The Sharavati Pumped Storage Project involves using water from the existing power-generating reservoir, pumped back up through motor pumps to generate more electricity. This project is expected to produce approximately 2,000 megawatts of power with minimal impact on the environment and forests. Therefore, I urge the Forest Department to take the necessary steps to grant the required permissions,” he requested the Forest Minister.

In response, Forest Minister Ishwar Khandre reiterated his commitment to the project’s environmental impact. He stated that a meeting with the relevant officials would be scheduled to discuss and take appropriate action. He also instructed senior department officials to offer guidance to the district forest officers and to submit a report within a month to secure the necessary forest and environmental clearances from the central authorities.
KPTCL Managing Director Pankaj Kumar Pandey and senior officials of KPCL and the Forest Department attended the meeting. Their expertise and guidance will be crucial in ensuring the successful and environmentally responsible execution of the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project.