The panel, comprising Justices K.S. Radhakrishnan and Dipak Misra, claimed that hydropower plants might be having a negative impact on the region’s environment and has directed Ministry of Environment and Forests to conduct a study.
A surfeit of large-scale hydroelectric projects in Uttarakhand and its impact on the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi river basins are a cause for concern, reported HydroWorld citing the court.
"The cumulative impact of those project components like dams, tunnels, blasting, muck disposal, mining, deforestation, etc. on the ecosystem have yet to be scientifically examined," the court added.
Meanwhile, the environmental ministry is expected to assemble a panel including representatives from the state government, Central Electricity Authority, Central Water Commission and other experts.
The study reports are expected to be submitted in the Supreme Court in the next few months.
