Energy minister K.J. George defends Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project

Minister for Energy K.J. George said that the Karnataka Power Corporation limited has taken up the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project to meet the energy demands during peak hours. “It has been a challenge to meet the requirements at peak hours,” he told journalists during his visit to Lakkavalli in Tarikere taluk on Monday (October 6, 2025).

Mr. George said the energy requirement would reach the highest point between 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and 6 a.m to 8 a.m. The Sharavathi PSP, proposed to generate 2,000 MW, would help meet the demand. “The officers have explained the necessity of the project to people at the project location. If still there are any doubts among the public, a team of officers would visit again and clarify them,” he said responding to protests opposing the project.

Afforestation programme

The opposition to power projects from certain sections of society was expected. “There are misconceptions about the project among some people. The officers are engaged in the efforts to clear them. There is no truth in the remarks that the project will affect the flow of the river. The pipeline will be laid underground and the area above can be used for afforestation,” the minister said.

Regarding the cutting of trees, Mr. George said the trees would be cut after following the set procedures. “If one tree is cut, we will plant 10 saplings as part of compensatory afforestation programme,” he said.

The minister took part in the inauguration of a 30-bed community health centre at Lakkavalli. He was accompanied by Health and Family Welfare minister Dinesh Gundurao, MLA G.H. Srinivas and others.