The Union environment ministry’s sectoral expert appraisal committee (EAC) has granted preliminary terms of reference (ToR) approval for THDC’s 1,200 MW pumped hydropower project proposed near Malshej Ghat in Thane and Pune districts of Maharashtra. 

The clearance allows Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies to begin, with the EAC directing THDC to submit detailed water-utilisation mapping. The project, located in the Kalu River valley close to popular monsoon sites and within eco-sensitive villages listed under the Centre’s 2024 Western Ghats draft notification, involves a closed-loop system designed to avoid continuous river water withdrawal. Estimated at Rs 6,815 crore, the project requires 310 hectares, including 74 hectares of forest land, and lies about three km from the Kalsubai Harishchandragad wildlife sanctuary.  

The EAC has asked THDC to obtain hydrological clearances from the Central Water Commission and Maharashtra government, noting concerns that feeder streams could be affected and directing that “no such rivulets are disturbed or impacted during project establishment.” A sub-committee will conduct a site inspection before further appraisal.