SIBLAC tells to MEF over the surging threat to environment from Mega Hydel Projects

source VoiceofSikkim on Jun 26, 2010

25 June, New Delhi
To
Mr. Jairam Ramesh
Hon’ble Union Minister of State
(Independent Charge)
Ministry of Environment & Forest
Government of India
Paryawaran Bhawan, CGO Complex
New Delhi 110003

Sub: Haphazard Mega Hydel Power Projects in Sikkim vis-à-vis systematic genocide of Sikkimese identity

It is very strange and disgusting that despite popular rejections and protest against most of the haphazard mega hydel-power projects in Sikkim that has posed immense threat to our local environment, demography, National Security and geography, your Ministry is simply acting like a mute spectator.

These mega hydel projects particularly in the Dzongu area where alone more than six mega projects are either being cleared or under the process of commissioning as against the mere indigenous and vanishing tribal population of 6000 is beyond imagination.

Your Ministry speaks big about global climatic changes and concern but for all practical purposes you care least sidelining the basic facts prevailing in remote parts like Sikkim in your own country.

Your Ministry, without verifying the ground realities and recommendations of reputed national environmentalists and institutes, accords go ahead to all and sundry in Sikkim for reasons best known to you.

Under the circumstances, I once again request you to give a rethink to all the projects as already given go ahead by you in Sikkim. You must appreciate that development, an important factor, however should not and must not be at the very cost of one’s identity and survival.

With highest regards.

Tseten Tashi Bhutia
Former Minister, Sikkim
Dated: June 25, 2010 Cum
Camp: New Delhi