The Ministry of Power recently released a press statement on April 5, 2023, regarding a study carried out by the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS) on the incidents of landslides in the vicinity of hydro power projects. The study was conducted using remote sensing and GIS technology, and aimed to understand the relationship between hydro power projects and landslides.
The press release and study by the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS) did not specifically mention the relationship between Joshimath landslides and hydro power projects.
Key Findings of the Study
The IIRS carried out the study in nine NHPC power stations and projects, including Subansiri Lower in Arunachal Pradesh, Teesta-V & Rangit in Sikkim, Salal, Dulhasti & Uri-II in J&K, Chamera-I & Parbat-II in Himachal Pradesh, and Dhauliganga in Uttarakhand. The study was based on the preparation of landslide inventory maps from 10 years before the start of construction until the current status of the projects.
The report highlights that in most cases, the landslide area decreased considerably in comparison to before the construction of the projects. The study revealed that the construction of hydro power projects and related activities, as well as post-commissioning hydrological conditions, might have helped stabilize the area.
Further, the report shows that the size of the hydro power projects, the size of the reservoir, local geology, soil, and land cover conditions (especially vegetation cover) all seem to play a role in mitigating landslides in the project areas.
The Role of Remote Sensing and GIS Technology
The report was prepared using satellite image-based interpretation and was subject to the resolution and availability of satellite images. The use of remote sensing and GIS technology allowed for a more comprehensive and accurate analysis of the relationship between hydro power projects and landslides.
Conclusion
The study conducted by the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS) provides valuable insights into the relationship between hydro power projects and landslides. The findings show that the construction of hydro power projects and related activities, as well as post-commissioning hydrological conditions, might have helped stabilize the area. Additionally, the size of the projects, the size of the reservoir, local geology, soil, and land cover conditions all seem to play a role in mitigating landslides.