Sharavathi Project: Ex-Minister, Green Forum Allege Irregularities, Seek CBI Probe

Former minister K.S. Eshwarappa and the environmental forum Parisarakkagi Naavu have jointly alleged large-scale irregularities in the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project and called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry.

Speaking at a press conference in Shivamogga on Friday, Mr. Eshwarappa, who heads the Rashtrabhaktara Balaga, claimed that the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL), the implementing agency, had not yet secured environmental clearance from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). He noted that the Karnataka High Court had previously stayed project work on this ground.

Despite the lack of clearance and the court stay, Mr. Eshwarappa alleged that KPCL had already disbursed ₹380 crore to Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited, the firm awarded the project contract. He contended that this payment was made even before the formal work order was issued.

Mr. Eshwarappa held Energy Minister K.J. George accountable for the funds, stating that if the project ultimately fails to obtain MoEF&CC approval, the minister should take responsibility for the expenditure. L.K. Sripathi of Parisarakkagi Naavu was also present at the press conference.