Environmental implications of Pancheshwar dam in Uttarakhand (Central Himalaya), India

The present study outlines major concerns and potential environmental consequences of the proposed Pancheshwar high dam in Uttarakhand (Central Himalaya), India. We evaluate the risks associated with the project in the light of environmental impact observed for the Tehri project in the region and the geological understanding developed over the years. Three major factors and their likely impacts analysed relate to (i) sediment mobilization from glacial-paraglacial zones and unstable slopes, (ii) infrastructure development, and (iii) seismicity. We highlight the need to reassess geo-environmental implications of the project in the ecologically sensitive Kaliganga valley.