The Sankhuwa Khola Hydropower Project (SKHP) is a 41.06 MW run-of-river project developed by Gurans Hydro Pvt. Ltd. in Silichong Rural Municipality, Sankhuwasabha, and Salpachilihchho Rural Municipality, Bhojpur, Nepal. The project is designed to generate an average of 233.92 GWh of electricity annually.
According to the project's Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), the project requires 16.306 hectares of land, including 6.841 hectares of forest land, and will involve felling approximately 1,505 trees. Construction activities may cause soil erosion, dust and air pollution, water sedimentation, and waste pollution. The diversion weir and reduced downstream river flows may also disrupt aquatic ecosystems and affect local livelihoods.
Affected communities include Indigenous Kulung, Mewahang Rai peoples concerned about their ancestral lands, natural resources, cultural heritage, and right to Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC). The project may also place additional pressure on local infrastructure and services due to the expected influx of approximately 500 construction workers.
The Sishuwa-Sankhuwa Water, Land, and Settlement Protection Struggle Committee demands cancellation of the project, suspension of construction, and an independent investigation into alleged irregularities in the EIA. It also calls for recognition of Indigenous Peoples' rights under ILO Convention No. 169 and UNDRIP, protection of ancestral territories and river ecosystems, and meaningful participation of affected communities in decisions concerning their lands and livelihoods.
LAHURNIP is providing legal advice to the affected communities in defending their rights and protecting their ancestral territories and livelihoods.
