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Pipalapanka Dam Revival: Odisha government’s renewed dam project at Pipalapanka, Ganjam district, sparks protests.
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Rushikulya River Threat: Locals and environmentalists fear the dam endangers the Rushikulya River.
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Priority to Industries: Allegations that the dam prioritizes water supply to industries, including Adani Group’s Gopalpur port, over ecological needs and
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Rushikulya Under Threat
Ecological Damage Concerns: Prafulla Samantara, along with other activists, highlight potential ecological damage and demand project withdrawal.
Rushikulya River Importance: The river flows through Kandhamal, Ganjam, and Boudh districts, originating in Daringbadi. Tributaries weakened by prior damming.
Olive Ridley Turtle Nesting: Rushikulya River mouth is crucial for Olive Ridley Turtle nesting (Arribada). Dam could increase salinity intrusion and reduce fish yield.
Climate Change Impact: Rising temperatures are skewing turtle sex ratios, further endangering the species.
Activist Opposition: Environmentalists argue the dam’s real purpose is industrial water supply, not irrigation, and cite threats to the river’s health from sand mining and industrial projects.