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Just when the environment is showing signs of improvement, a hydropower project might lead to the destruction of 2.7 lakh trees in Arunachal’s Dibang Valley. By Tanvi Jain
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As many as 2.7 lakh trees are likely to be cut in the Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh for the Etalin Hydropower Project — a joint venture of Hydro Power Development Corporation of Arunachal Pradesh Limited with Jindal Power Limited.
However, the Environment Ministry’s Forest Advisory Committee (FAC), is yet to give a nod to the said project. Meanwhile, many scientists have opposed it, stating the absence of an assessment of the impact, the project will have on the environment. Reports suggest that the proposed Etalin Project and the approved Dibang Multipurpose project, both have been planned across the river, which could, therefore, lead to the destruction of a major part of the Dibang Valley. Moreover, the location of the forest lies within the pristine forests, which are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
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However, though the project has reportedly proposed compensation of plantations to be carried out across 25 pieces of land in the valley’s Anini town, the locals fear it’s not enough to cover up for the damage to such huge biodiversity.
As per reports, the project is likely to be approved only if the developer deposits money for the conservation of wildlife in the area.
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According to the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), the Dibang Valley biodiversity comprises 563 species of flora, 230 species of birds, and 21 species of mammals. Moreover, numbers from the government website further confirm that there are 159 types of butterflies, 113 species of spiders, 51 types of moths, 14 of amphibians, and 31 species of reptiles.
Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh which is considered to be one of the richest Himalayan biodiversities, is being taken care of by the Idu Mishmi community for ages.
Related: Here’s How This Arunachal-Based Tribe Is Preserving A Rare Bird Species
