The Godavari Marathwada Irrigation Development Corporation (GMIDC) has decided to set up solar energy projects on various dams under its jurisdiction. In addition, efforts will be made to restart the long-defunct hydroelectric project at the Jayakwadi dam in Paithan, which is expected to boost the corporation’s revenue.
Following the decision to make the GMIDC autonomous, Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil has directed that the salary expenditure of officers and employees should be met from the corporation’s own income. Against this backdrop, several initiatives are being taken to strengthen revenue sources.
A large-scale floating solar power project of 2,000 MW is being developed at the Jayakwadi dam through NTPC, which has already received clearance from the union Ministry of Environment. In addition, the corporation will independently develop another solar project at the same site.
Similar solar energy projects are planned at the Upper Penganga, Purna, Sindphana dams in Marathwada, as well as the Mula project in Ahilyanagar district. A project consultancy agency has been appointed to assess feasibility. Based on its report, detailed information on costs and expected revenue will be prepared before implementation begins, senior officials said.
Hydropower Project at Jayakwadi to be revived
Jayakwadi is the largest dam in Marathwada. A hydroelectric project was installed there at the time of its establishment, but it has remained non-functional for several years due to technical issues. Officials believe that reviving the project could permanently address the electricity needs of Paithan city and the tehsil.
Opposition to the project
Adv. Ganesh Raut of the Jeevanrakshak Movement raised concerns over the proposal, stating that electricity consumption should first be reduced. He warned that installing solar panels on dams could harm aquatic life, especially fish, and threaten the habitat of migratory birds. He also said that such projects could increase global warming and argued that solar panel manufacturing involves the use of coal, oil, and gas, making the project environmentally questionable.