Karnataka Forest Department Recommends Diversion of Forest Land for Power Storage Plant
The Karnataka Forest Department has recently made a recommendation to divert 23.3 hectares of forest land in Sandur taluk, Ballari district. The proposed diversion is for the establishment of a 130 MW power storage plant by JSW Renewable Energy Limited, with an estimated cost of Rs 640 million. While ongoing discussions are underway regarding a separate pumped storage project within the Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary, senior forest officials from the Ballari Circle have supported the clearance of the land in Sandur.
Project Site Located Outside Protected Areas
The Ballari Circle’s senior forest officials have justified their support for the project by highlighting that the proposed site falls outside the boundaries of any national park, sanctuary, elephant corridor, or protected area. This positioning is significant as it aligns with the provisions outlined in the Forest Conservation Act of 1980, potentially allowing for the permissibility of the power storage plant in this specific location.
Nearby Wildlife Sanctuaries and Proposed Tree Felling
During an inspection conducted by forest officials, it was noted that the proposed site is situated 8 km away from the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary and 17.1 km from the Gudekote Sloth Bear Sanctuary. Additionally, as part of the project requirements, a total of 2,539 trees have been marked for felling.
Endorsement by Chief Conservator of Forests and JSW’s Commitments
The Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) for the Ballari Circle has endorsed the proposal, taking into consideration the location’s distance from protected wildlife sanctuaries and the lack of ecological interference caused by the development. Moreover, JSW Renewable Energy Limited has already acquired 23.7 hectares of land in Agasanur village, Siruguppa taluk for compensatory afforestation. In addition to this, the company has committed to make a net present value (NPV) payment of Rs 29 million.
The recommendation made by the Karnataka Forest Department signals a potential step towards the realization of the power storage plant proposed by JSW Renewable Energy Limited. With support from senior forest officials and the adherence to relevant environmental regulations, it highlights the balance between development and environmental sustainability. As the project progresses, it will be interesting to observe the positive impact on the renewable energy sector in Karnataka and the paradigm shift towards greener energy solutions.
