District Committee Urges Halt to Barun River Hydropower Project

The District Coordination Committee (DCC) of Sankhuwasabha has formally requested the government to deny permission for a proposed hydropower project on the Barun River. The committee cited significant concerns regarding the river's religious importance, potential environmental damage, and the need to conserve the Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation Area.

In a letter addressed to the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, the DCC urged against approving the 132 MW Lower Barun Khola Hydropower Project. This project is planned for Syalshila in Bhotkhola Rural Municipality-4. DCC Chief Suman Shakya emphasized the Barun River's deep religious and cultural value, stating it requires protection.

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The Barun River holds significant religious and cultural importance and needs to be protected.

Supporting a previous decision by the Bhotkhola Rural Municipality's executive meeting, the DCC advocates for preserving the Barun River as a religious heritage site. They also oppose any hydropower construction within the national park and conservation area, urging authorities to adhere to the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act and related protected area policies.

The committee highlighted that Sankhuwasabha possesses substantial hydropower potential, estimated at around 6,000 MW from various rivers, with significant capacity already connected to the national grid or under development. However, they warned that the Barun River project could negatively impact religious sentiments, the local environment, and the region's overall ecosystem. The Barun River holds importance for both Hindu and Buddhist communities, with local traditions and the annual Makar Mela festival linked to its banks.

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The committee warned that constructing the hydropower project on the Barun River could affect religious sentiments, the environment and the overall ecosystem of the region.