MANDI: The Himachal Pradesh government is facing fierce opposition from local communities in Lahaul-Spiti after signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Telangana government on March 29, 2025, for the construction of two hydroelectric projects Miyar (120 MW) and Seli (400 MW) in the tribal district.
The move has been widely criticised for disregarding the region’s fragile climate, ecology and tribal rights.
Under the banner of Lahaul-Spiti Ekta Manch, various public organisations in the district have come together to oppose the government’s decision. They have warned of a large-scale mass movement if the agreement is not revoked.
Govt ignoring public sentiments: Ekta Manch
Speaking on behalf of the organisation, Lahaul-Spiti Ekta Manch convener Rigzin Hayerappa and president Sudarshan Jaspa said that the Himachal Pradesh government is “determined to erase the identity of Lahaul-Spiti by pushing forward these projects against the will of the local population”.
“This decision will not be tolerated under any circumstances. The people of Lahaul-Spiti are now prepared for a decisive struggle to protect their land, ecology and future,” they asserted.
Local leaders demand immediate cancellation
The Himachal Pradesh government’s decision to sign the MoU without consulting local communities has also sparked political debate.
Former Himachal Pradesh minister and BJP ex-MLA from Lahaul-Spiti Ramlal Markandey has strongly opposed the state government’s agreement on hydro projects in Lahaul-Spiti, stating that it went against public sentiment.
Markandey, addressing the people of Lahaul-Spiti, assured them of his unwavering support, saying, “Your brother and your son stands with you. The Himachal government is determined to erase the existence of Lahaul-Spiti. I will always stand with my people to protect the interests of the region. I demand the immediate cancellation of this agreement.”
He emphasised that during his tenure in the government, he had publicly opposed hydroelectric projects, leading to the cancellation of nearly 11 such projects in the past.
Referring to the disasters in Kinnaur and Uttarakhand, he cautioned against the potential risks posed by these projects.
Representatives from other organisations have also unanimously demanded the immediate cancellation of the MoU, warning of strong resistance if their concerns were not addressed.
Prominent voices from region join protest
Prominent figures leading the opposition include BS Rana, Prem Chand Katoch, Vikram Katoch and Prem Lal Yoterpa from Save Lahaul-Spiti outfit, zila parishad member Kunga Bodh, Khoksar pradhan Sachin Merupa, Heera Ram Gaud of Chanderbhaga Struggle Committee; Sonam Targe and Tenzin Takpa from Spiti Civil Society; Nawang Tamba and Ranjit Krofa from Jan Chetna Samiti; Sudarshan Thakur and Virender Thakur from Gramin Yuva Sangathan & Sheli Struggle Committee; Padma Thille and Tenzin Katoch from the Jispa Dam Struggle Committee and Vinod Kumar Larje and Arun Rana from the Tandi Struggle Committee.
These leaders have issued a stern warning to the government, stating that if the agreement was not revoked, they would launch a widespread protest movement across the district.
Growing environmental concerns
Environmentalists and local activists have repeatedly raised concerns about the negative impact of the large-scale hydropower projects in ecologically sensitive regions like Lahaul-Spiti.
Experts argue that deforestation, disruption of water sources and threats to local biodiversity could have long-term consequences for the region.
Munish Sood
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