RJD MP Sudhakar Singh writes to Bihar CM to set up hydroelectric projects in the Kaimur Hills

The recent proposal by RJD MP Sudhakar Singh to establish hydroelectric projects in the Kaimur Hills of Bihar marks a significant discussion point for India's energy future, regional development, and environmental sustainability. This initiative, directed to the Bihar Chief Minister, seeks to address Bihar's persistent energy deficit while simultaneously aiming for a host of co-benefits, including carbon emissions reduction, local employment generation, and overall development of the Kaimur region.

Bihar, historically an energy-deficient state, heavily relies on thermal power and power purchases from the national grid. This dependency often leads to higher energy costs and vulnerability to supply disruptions. The state's per capita energy consumption remains lower than the national average, underscoring the urgent need for robust energy infrastructure. The Kaimur Hills, part of the Vindhyan range, present a promising landscape for hydroelectric potential due to their topography and river systems. While detailed hydrological surveys would be necessary, the region's geographical characteristics suggest viable sites for small to medium-sized hydro projects. The background context, therefore, is rooted in Bihar's quest for energy self-reliance and sustainable development, aligning with India's broader renewable energy targets.

The proposal itself is multi-faceted. Beyond strengthening Bihar's energy self-sufficiency, it champions environmental protection through reduced reliance on fossil fuels, leading to a decrease in carbon emissions. This aligns with India's commitments under the Paris Agreement, particularly its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2070. Furthermore, the generation of employment for local youth and the overall development of the Kaimur region are crucial social and economic objectives. Such projects can bring infrastructure, improve living standards, and provide economic opportunities in often underdeveloped areas.

Key stakeholders in this proposal include RJD MP Sudhakar Singh, who initiated the call, and the Bihar Chief Minister and the State Government, who would be responsible for evaluating and implementing such projects. Local communities in the Kaimur region are critical stakeholders, as they would be directly impacted by land acquisition, potential displacement, and the benefits of employment and development. Environmental groups and experts also play a vital role, ensuring that projects adhere to ecological norms and minimize adverse impacts on biodiversity, especially considering the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary in the vicinity. Potential private and public sector energy companies would be involved in the technical and financial execution of these projects.

This initiative matters significantly for India's development trajectory. Regionally, it addresses disparities by focusing on an underdeveloped area like Kaimur. Nationally, it contributes to India's energy security and its transition to a cleaner energy economy. Hydroelectric power, while renewable, is not without its environmental costs, such as habitat fragmentation, altered river flows, and potential displacement. Therefore, robust Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and social impact assessments, as mandated by the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and its associated rules, would be crucial. The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, would also be invoked if forest land is diverted.

Historically, India has a long track record of large-scale hydroelectric projects, like the Bhakra Nangal Dam, which have been instrumental in post-independence development, providing both power and irrigation. However, these projects also faced criticism regarding environmental degradation and human displacement. Learning from these experiences, modern hydro projects often emphasize run-of-the-river schemes and smaller scales to mitigate impacts. Bihar's specific context, being prone to floods, also raises the potential for multi-purpose projects that could integrate flood control with power generation.

From a constitutional perspective, electricity falls under the Concurrent List (Entry 38 of List III of the Seventh Schedule), allowing both the Union and State governments to legislate. Water, however, is primarily a State subject (Entry 17 of List II). This interplay necessitates cooperation and coordination. The Electricity Act, 2003, provides the overarching framework for the generation, transmission, distribution, and trading of electricity in India. Furthermore, the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), particularly Article 38 (promoting welfare of the people) and Article 39 (directing policy towards securing economic justice and preventing concentration of wealth), provide the normative framework for such development initiatives aimed at public good and equitable resource distribution.

Future implications involve a thorough feasibility study, environmental clearances, and securing financial investment. If implemented sustainably, these projects could significantly boost Bihar's energy matrix, provide critical employment, and foster regional growth. However, careful planning, transparent decision-making, and active community engagement will be paramount to navigate potential challenges and ensure that the benefits truly outweigh the costs, making it a model for sustainable development in India's aspiring states.