Proposed Mini-Hydel Project In Kodagu Raises Concern Over Threat To Western Ghats Ecosystem

Environmentalists have raised concerns that mini and micro hydel projects could cause irreversible damage to the fragile ecology of the Western Ghats. Photo: For representative purpose only

Madikeri: A proposal for the construction of a mini-hydel power project across the Kumaradhara river in Kodagu district has sparked concern among conservationists, especially at a time when safeguarding the fragile Western Ghats ecosystem remains a crucial environmental priority.

The proposed project, titled the Sri Shantamallikarjuna Mini Hydel Project, aims to divert about 2.8 hectares of forestland in Kumarahalli village, located in Somwarpet taluk, according to a report in The Hindu. The proposal, submitted by M/s Poorna Pragna Infrastructure from Hassan district, is currently under scrutiny by the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Madikeri Division, for evaluation and recommendations.

Environmentalists, however, have raised red flags, warning that such ventures—often categorised as mini or micro hydel projects—can cause irreversible damage to the delicate ecology of the Western Ghats. They argue that these smaller projects are increasingly being used to bypass strict environmental scrutiny while collectively contributing to large-scale habitat disruption.

Wildlife conservationist Giridhar Kulkarni has urged the Forest Department to reject the proposal, pointing out that the project site lies in close proximity to the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary—a vital elephant corridor and a protected area that shelters several species listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

In The Hindu report, Mr. Kulkarni highlighted that the proposed site falls within the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of the sanctuary, as notified in June 2017, and is situated barely 2.5 km from its boundary. “The region has already witnessed significant habitat loss due to infrastructure expansion, unchecked tourism, and earlier hydel projects. Any new project will further fragment wildlife habitats and intensify human-elephant conflicts,” he warned.

He further cautioned that disrupting the river’s natural flow could harm the local riverine ecosystem, compounding the effects of soil erosion and landslides that have repeatedly affected Kodagu in recent years. Kulkarni called upon authorities to prioritise conservation and prevent any further deterioration of the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats landscape.

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