After BJP-CAP, Opposition SDF Voices Discontent Over EAC’s Approval for Reconstruction of Teesta-III Dam

Bhutia also criticised SKM for allowing the dam's reconstruction despite opposing hydropower projects before 2019.

After strong criticism from the BJP-Sikkim unit and Citizen Action Party-Sikkim, the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) has also voiced concerns over the recent approval granted by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) under the Union Environment Ministry for the reconstruction of the 1,200 MW Teesta-III Hydroelectric Project in Mangan district.

In a video statement released on Wednesday, SDF spokesperson Rikzing Norbu Dorjee Bhutia criticised the state government for not conducting a public hearing before granting approval.

“I demand the state government to discuss the matter of new dam reconstruction with the people of Sikkim,” said Bhutia.

He also demanded a white paper on the utilisation of funds received for rehabilitation after the 2023 GLOF disaster, alleging that the government had failed to compensate the victims adequately.

The SDF further demanded that the SKM-led state government disclose the remaining percentage of shares owned by the state in Sikkim Power Investment Corporation Limited (SPICL).

Bhutia also criticised SKM for allowing the dam’s reconstruction despite opposing hydropower projects before 2019.

The SDF spokesperson questioned BJP-Sikkim over its contradictory position, noting that while the Union government, led by the BJP, had approved the dam’s reconstruction, its Sikkim unit opposed the project.

“I request BJP-Sikkim not to create confusion among our people and to take a clear stand on the matter,” Bhutia said.

The Teesta-III Dam, Sikkim’s largest hydro project, was washed away during the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in October 2023. Despite this, the EAC has conditionally approved its reconstruction, drawing opposition from various political parties.

The EAC approved the project on 10 January, requiring necessary approvals from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and the Central Water Commission (CWC).

The Sikkim Urja Limited, developers of the original dam, plan to construct a new 118.66-metre-tall concrete gravity dam, replacing the previous 60-metre-tall rockfill concrete-faced dam.

Also Read: CAP Slams Environment Ministry’s Approval for Teesta-III Dam, Cites Lack of Public Hearings

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