WIO opposes drawing of river water for Posco project

BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha government's move to allow Posco project to draw water from rivers like Mahanadi and Hansua is facing opposition from activists.

"This is unfortunate. There is genuine opposition by farmers and public against diversion of Mahanadi and Hansua water for Posco at the cost of drinking water for Cuttack and irrigation water at Hansua," said Ranjan Panda, convenor, Water Initiatives Odisha ( WIO).

Stating that any diversion of water from Hansua would lead to serious problems for farmers and their produce, the initiative demanded a fresh environmental impact assessment and public hearing.

"How can the Odisha government give permission to Posco by deviating from the original proposal without going for a complete assessment of the water availability, impact of the drawal and related construction and other activities?" asked Panda.

Terming the state's move as a clear violation of environmental laws, Panda demanded roll back the decision.

"We urge upon the Odisha government to immediately withdraw this decision and go for fresh environmental impact assessment of these new proposals," WIO said in a statement.