JD(U) for separate ministry to preserve the Himalayas

NEW DELHI: Stressing that hydropower projects in the Himalayan region will damage the fragile environment of the hills, JD(U) today demanded a separate ministry and a policy for the Himalayas.

JD(U) president Sharad Yadav slammed the government for not releasing the Chopra Committee report, which was constituted after Uttarakhand flash floods and attempting to neutralise the findings of the report.

"As many as 450 hydropower projects have been proposed on the Ganga river and its tributaries in Uttarakhand. Besides, the implementation of these projects, the consequent deforestation, mining, blasting, movement of heavy machinery and other activities destruct the environment," he said.

Briefing reporters, Yadav stressed for a separate ministry and a policy for Himalayas.

"There should be a separate for ministry for the Himalayas. There must be a policy for Himalayas. If the Himalayas are not protected, then the nation cannot be saved," he said.