Sikkim BJP Writes to PM, Environment Minister, Seeks Immediate Action on Teesta-III Project Approval

BJP Sikkim President D.R. Thapa raised concerns over the lack of scientific reassessment, absence of fresh public consultation, and environmental risks associated with the project.

The Sikkim unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change Bhupendra Yadav, demanding an immediate intervention in the recently approved clearance for the Teesta-III hydropower project.

BJP Sikkim President D.R. Thapa raised concerns over the lack of scientific reassessment, absence of fresh public consultation, and environmental risks associated with the project. The clearance, granted by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) on January 10, has sparked widespread concern, especially in the wake of the October 4, 2023, South Lhonak glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF), which destroyed the previous Teesta-III dam and claimed 40 lives.

The Sikkim BJP’s key demands include:

1. Immediate Withholding of EAC Clearance – The party has urged the government to halt the approval until pending scientific studies, including a revised Probable Maximum Flood assessment, are completed and independently verified.
2. Fresh Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) – A new EIA must be conducted, considering updated climate data, GLOF risks, and evolving hydrological conditions.
3. Fresh Public Hearing – The 2006 public consultation is outdated. The party insists on a new hearing to ensure local participation in decision-making.

The letter underscores that proceeding without addressing these concerns jeopardises environmental and structural safety. The Sikkim BJP has called for a transparent, scientifically backed approach before any further progress on the project.

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