Mamata blames hydropower projects in Sikkim for flooding in Bengal

PRASHANT ACHARYA

SILIGURI, : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today expressed concern over the increasing number of hydroelectric projects in Sikkim, stating that they have contributed to natural disasters in downstream regions.

During her visit to North Bengal, Banerjee pointed out that water from Sikkim and Bhutan, flowing through Teesta and Sankosh rivers respectively, has led to severe flooding in several parts of West Bengal.

“I don’t know how they were granted permission for so many hydro-power projects. We tried two ourselves and even those have not been very successful,” said the Trinamool Congress chief, while interacting with families of landslide victims at Dudhey under the Mirik block on Tuesday afternoon.

Clarifying that she holds no ill will towards Sikkim, Banerjee said, “I am not against the State of Sikkim, but if the natural flow of rivers is blocked, how can floods and landslides be controlled? The government should have thought more carefully before allowing construction of so many river-based projects.”

Banerjee further emphasized that recurring floods in Bengal are largely due to the water released from Sikkim and Bhutan. “I have repeatedly urged the Centre to set up an Indo-Bhutan River Commission, but there has been no response so far,” she added.

She also cited issues such as lack of proper dredging and desiltation as well as unilateral water releases from DVC-controlled dams, as major factors exacerbating the flood situation.

“In times of crisis, politics must never take precedence over people’s lives. The State government remains committed to standing shoulder to shoulder with those affected,” Banerjee stated. “I urge everyone to remain calm, and not fall prey to provocations. Compassion, empathy and humanity must guide us all.”