Kalimpong, December14: 

The NHPC has assured that the existence of Tribeni, the confluence of Teesta and Rangit rivers, would not be affected due to the construction of the proposed combined Teesta Low Dam Projects (TLDP) I and II.

The Union government undertaking was commenting on the reports that Tribeni would be endangered due to the project besides jeopardizing the tourism sector and local beliefs.

In a press statement, the NHPC informed that approvals are mandatory for multiple State and Central agencies for commencement of any construction work. The combined TLDP project is proposed to be located around 2 km upstream from Tribeni confluence and hence, in no way it shall affect either tourism or religious beliefs of the local people, it said.

Further the construction of TLDP-I and II will start only after taking all necessary approvals from the Central and State governments and Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, said the NHPC.

The survey work for the project was taken up for finalisation of DPR only after signing the memorandum of agreement with the West Bengal government and WBSEDCL last July, the NHPC informed.

Regarding allegations of damaging NH 10 through TLDP III and IV, the NHPC said it has already been earlier clarified that road formation breaches are mainly due to improper, inadequate drainage and cross-drainage works along he highway. The TLDP-III nd IV reservoir operations re not linked to the damage n the road, it said.

NHPC undertakes repair f any damages that are observed close to the reservoirs, it as informed.

The power developer added that it also contributes in economic and social development of local people through CRS and SD activities besides creating job opportunities. Nearly 800 eople from Rambi and Kalijhora have been given employment through contractors in TLD-III and V power stations apart from providing self-employment o many in the adjoining reas, said the NHPC.