Common Platform demands immediate implementation of High Power Committee’s recommendation to scrap the three hydel projects in West Sikkim

GANGTOK, 04 Jan: The Common Platform for Joint Action against Ting-Ting, Tashiding and Lethang Hydro-Power Projects has welcomed the recommendations of the State High Power Committee headed by the Chief Secretary to scrap the three projects on Rathong-Chu.
All Sikkim Educated Self-Employed & Unemployed Association [ASESE&UA] president, Nawin Kiran, said that they came to know of the decision of the Committee from a news report in a local daily [NOW! issue dated 19/12/ 2011] and confirmed through their own sources.

“We whole heartedly welcome the recommendation of the State High Power Committee and demand that the Government not delay the implementation of the recommendation of its own committee,” he said.

On the Rangchang Bridge collapse issue, Mr Kiran said that the Common Platform supports the statement made by the Lok Sabha MP, PD Rai demanding a probe into the bridge collapse by the Defense Ministry. He further suggested that the central government should investigate the matter through its investigating agency, CBI as the bridge was under the BRO therefore making it a matter of concern for the centre as well.

While, a member of Save Sikkim, PR Kharka, alleged that blasting at the project site at Lower Onglop is being undertaken on the sly and the company does not even have proper storage system for housing explosives. He also mentioned that there are frequent minor tremors in the area and the Upper Bhaluthang village above the tunnel is slowly sinking. He further demanded that for the safety of the people the government should implement the recommendation as soon as possible.

Sikkim Bhutia-Lepcha Apex Committee [SIBLAC] convener, Tseten Tashi Bhutia alleged that the common people are facing problems due to a communication gap between the Chief Minister, State High Power Committee and the power project companies.

The Common Platform demands the immediate personal intervention by the Chief Minister into the matter as we are still hoping that the government will intervene, he added.
Mr Bhutia further warned that if a positive initiative is not taken at the earliest the Common Platform will announce their physical agitation strategies soon.