Opposition Grows Against Proposed Hydropower Project on Kulsi River

Rising Dissent Over Hydropower Initiative

Palasbari, June 8: A significant backlash has emerged against the planned 55-megawatt hydropower and irrigation project on the Kulsi river, following a recent discussion between Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Meghalaya's Chief Minister Conrad Sangma at the Koinadhara guest house. The two leaders reportedly reached a consensus to advance the contentious project, igniting strong opposition from local groups.

During a press conference at the Chhaygaon Anchalik Rabha Students' Union's central office in Rihabari, various organizations from the Rabha community, including the Rabha Mahila Parishad and the Sixth Schedule Demand Committee, expressed their vehement disapproval of the proposed dam on Friday.

Pradip Rabha, vice president of the ARSU central committee, criticized the decision made by both state governments and demanded an immediate halt to the initiative.

The student organization warned that if the project proceeds, they would initiate a large-scale democratic protest in collaboration with local residents. A significant demonstration is planned for June 9 in Ukium, a village situated along the Assam-Meghalaya border, with participation from various ethnic and indigenous groups.

At the press conference, Pradip Rabha highlighted that the hydropower project threatens the livelihoods and well-being of the local population. He underscored the ecological and cultural significance of the Kulsi river, which branches into Kukurmara and Chhaygaon before further dividing and flowing through Hatigarh and Kharkhori. He described the river as the lifeblood of the broader South Kamrup region.

He cautioned that the construction of a 62-meter-high concrete dam would jeopardize the area's biodiversity and endanger iconic species such as the Gangetic dolphin. The project is also anticipated to adversely affect the ecologically vital Chandubi lake. Furthermore, sudden water releases from the dam could wreak havoc on homes, agricultural land, and livestock in downstream communities.

The Rabha Students' Union urged the government to refrain from executing projects that could harm local inhabitants and instead advocated for the implementation of the Sixth Schedule in the region rather than the proposed satellite township.

Laskar Rabha, president of the Chhaygaon ARSU, confirmed that the protest on June 9 in Ukium will witness the participation of multiple communities standing united against the hydropower initiative.