ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF HYDRO POWER PROJECT: A CASE STUDY OF THE LOKTAK HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT IN MANIPUR

Abstract

Energy is essential to modern economies and to living in the modern world. To achieve economic growth, improve living conditions, and alleviate poverty, it is essential. Access to energy is therefore considered one of the most important development goals. Due to factors such as high energy costs, unaffordable grid infrastructure, and geographically dispersed populations, providing access to the majority of the world's population can prove challenging. Renewable energy technologies, on the other hand, provide affordable and sustainable electricity to millions of people. There are a number of economically viable options for rural electrification through renewable energy technologies. In terms of renewable energy, India heavily relies on hydropower. Hydropower projects can adversely affect the environment and socio-economic well-being of the population. As an energy source, hydropower contributes to economic development and meets the growing energy needs of countries. Dam construction, however, alters water flow and sediment load, adversely impacting the environment and the population's livelihoods. Various differences exist between upstream and downstream needs, demands, and challenges. In this paper, we attempt to assess the effects of hydropower projects on society in terms of the environment as well as socio-economic conditions.