Maharashtra Reviews 3,000-MW Karjat Pumped Storage Project

Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik Reviews 3,000-MW Karjat Pumped Storage Project Amid Environmental Concerns

Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik has started reviewing Torrent Power’s proposed 3,000-megawatt (MW) Saidongar-I pumped storage project in Karjat taluka of Raigad district. The project, located near the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, has drawn attention because of concerns about its possible impact on forests, trees, wildlife, and local communities.

The state government is examining the environmental concerns while exploring ways to protect as many trees as possible. The project has also received support from the state leadership because of its potential to strengthen Maharashtra’s clean energy supply.

Forest Minister Ganesh Naik Reviews Karjat Power Project

Ganesh Naik said the project had received approval before he took charge of the Forest Department. However, he confirmed that the government was reviewing the matter and looking at ways to reduce its environmental impact.

The minister said efforts would be made to save as many existing trees as possible at the project location. He also stated that additional trees would be planted at other suitable locations to support forest conservation and maintain environmental balance.

The review comes as the proposed project has become a major topic of discussion in Maharashtra, with political leaders and environmental groups raising questions about its impact on the surrounding forest area.

Political Leaders Raise Concerns Over Tree Cutting and Wildlife Protection

Several Opposition leaders have opposed the proposed Karjat pumped storage project, highlighting concerns about large-scale tree cutting and possible damage to the region's natural environment.

Among those who have raised objections are Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray, Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal, and NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar. Ruling NCP leader and actor Sayaji Shinde has also expressed opposition to the proposal.

Opposition leaders have claimed that around 32,000 trees could be cut in the Karjat-Bhimashankar region for the project. Environmental groups have also highlighted concerns about biodiversity, forest cover, wildlife habitats, and the livelihoods of people living in nearby areas.

These concerns have increased public attention on the project and the need to balance infrastructure development with environmental protection.

Maharashtra Government Highlights Clean Energy Benefits

While environmental concerns remain under review, the state government has highlighted the project's potential contribution to Maharashtra's future energy requirements.

Minister of State for Power Meghana Bordikar has supported the project, stating that it would help provide clean energy to the state.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has also backed the proposal, emphasizing the long-term benefits of pumped storage technology for reliable electricity generation. He said the environmental impact would be temporary compared with the long-term benefits of clean energy production.

Fadnavis also announced plans to plant 90,000 trees as part of the environmental measures. He added that land covering an area twice the size of the project site would be allocated to the Forest Department.

Karjat Pumped Storage Project and Maharashtra's Renewable Energy Goals

The proposed 3,000-MW Saidongar-I project is expected to support Maharashtra's growing demand for reliable electricity. Pumped storage projects help store energy by moving water between reservoirs at different elevations. The stored water can later be used to generate electricity when demand increases.

This technology can support renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power by helping manage changes in electricity generation and demand.

The Karjat project has therefore become an important discussion point in Maharashtra's clean energy planning. At the same time, the government's ongoing review highlights the importance of considering forest protection, biodiversity, and local environmental concerns before moving ahead with major infrastructure projects.

As the review continues, the focus remains on finding a responsible approach that supports Maharashtra's energy needs while protecting its natural resources and surrounding communities.