In Lakhimpur district, Assam, the Ranganadi River has once again turned turbid, covered with black sediments due to the release of industrial waste from the 405 MW Panyor Hydro Electric Project’s dam, operated by the North East Electrical Power Corporation (NEEPCO) in Yazali, Arunachal Pradesh. Since January 8, darkened water and foul odor have been reported downstream, alarming residents and affecting the riverine ecosystem. This has led to the death of fish and other aquatic species, while cattle owners have been forced to prevent their animals from drinking the contaminated water.
Concerns are growing among local villagers about the potential health impacts and environmental damage, as similar incidents occurred in 2019. The pollution in the river is not just affecting aquatic life but poses a risk to public health by potentially contaminating groundwater.
NEEPCO issued a notice on December 26, 2024 (potentially a typo), stating that water release from the Ranganadi dam due to maintenance work would occur from January 7 to March 15 and might contain silt unsuitable for consumption. However, the Lakhimpur district administration was not informed until three days ago, raising questions about NEEPCO’s transparency and responsibilities.
Affected areas like Bogoleejan, Borbeel, Pachnoi, and others near North Lakhimpur have been experiencing the flow of contaminated water, leading to heightened fears about the sustainability of livelihoods and the already vulnerable ecosystem worsened by annual monsoon floods and erosion.
Residents are demanding accountability from NEEPCO for the continuous and severe impact of their operations. This situation underscores the urgent need for better communication, effective mitigation strategies, and sustainable practices to protect the fragile ecology and communities dependent on the Ranganadi River.
Original Source: https://nenow.in/north-east-news/assam/assam-neepcos-dam-repair-work-turns-ranganadi-turbid-again-in-lakhimpur.html
Category : Assam,Northeast News
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Publish Date: 2025-01-12 16:01:00
