Centre's Panel Grants In-Principle Approval To Etalin Hydropower Project In Arunachal Pradesh

The Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) has granted “in-principle” approval to the Etalin Hydropower Project (3,097 MW) in Arunachal Pradesh’s Dibang Valley, a region designated as a high conservation value area due to its rich biodiversity, reported Hindustan Times.

The decision, recorded in the FAC meeting held on 26 May, breathes new life into a project that was scrapped in 2023 following public protests and scientific objections.

FAC, a statutory body under the Union Environment Ministry, also approved the diversion of 313.88 hectares of unclassed forest for the Tato-II Hydro Electric Project (700 MW) on the Siyom River, while deferring a decision on the Attunli Hydroelectric Project (680 MW) on the Talo River.

The 3,097 MW Etalin project, now overseen by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd, will result in the felling of 2.7 lakh trees and the diversion of 1,175.03 hectares of unclassed forest.

The area is home to a wide array of wildlife including endangered species such as the Himalayan Serow, Asiatic Golden Cat, and King Cobra, and supports around 680 bird species, including 19 globally threatened species.

Despite prior rejections, FAC has now “recommended the proposal for grant of in-principle approval subject to fulfilment of general, standard and following specific conditions," after new plan was submitted in May.

These include handing over 424.83 hectares used for temporary structures back to the forest department and implementing a Rs 29.50 crore biodiversity management plan by the Wildlife Institute of India.

A high-level empowered committee, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Dibang Valley, will address local concerns.

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