Interview

Bhagat Singh Koshiyari, chief minister of Uttaranchal, talks to Down To Earth

Why has the decision to close the Tehri dam tunnels been taken now?
Last year, the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation (THDC) wasn't geared up to commence operations. And there was simmering resentment over rehabilitation.

How were anti-dam protesters reined in?
We have redressed their grievances and left them with no cause for complaint.

What about all the outstanding environmental issues?
The time for all that is over. They have all been well considered in the past.

Aren't the Joshi committee recommendations still awaited?
The committee continues its work. But we will carry on with the dam construction.

Shouldn't you wait for its final report?
Local people, who are the worst hit, have given their consent. Opposition from any other quarter is irrelevant now.

Did Union minister Suresh Prabhu make any commitment about power sharing?
Prabhu has promised us complete assistance in all matters related to power and energy.

Are you acting on the Supreme Court judgement on affected people?
I have not vetted the order yet. But we are already solving their problems.

What is the government's policy towards other major hydroelectric projects?
We will decide on a case-to-case basis.

Has the government not given in to the demands of the power lobby?
We do not bow under any pressure.