Context:

• Despite strong opposition from environmentalists, the governments of Assam and Meghalaya have jointly decided to set up a 55 MW hydropower project on the Kulsi River. The decision has sparked concern due to the river’s ecological significance—especially as a breeding and nesting ground for the endangered Gangetic river dolphin.

About the Kulsi River

• Location: South-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra River
• Ecological Significance:
  • Recognized as one of the last remaining habitats of the endangered Gangetic dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica) in Assam.

River Course and Origin:

• Origin:
  • Formed by the confluence of Khri, Krishniya, and Umsiri rivers.
  • All three originate in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya at elevations over 1800 metres.
• Naming:
  • Referred to as Khri in its upper course.
  • After merging with Krishniya and Umsiri, it is named Kulsi.
• Flow Path:
  • Flows northwest through Meghalaya, entering Assam at Ukium.
  • Traverses the Kamrup district of Assam, passing Kulsi village.
  • Ultimately joins the Brahmaputra River near Nagarbera.

Physical Features:

• Total Length:
  • Approx. 220 km (100 km in Meghalaya and 120 km in Assam)
• Catchment Area:
  • Total drainage area: 3,770 sq. km
    • Hill catchment (Meghalaya & parts of Assam): 3,085 sq. km
    • Plain catchment (Assam): 685 sq. km

Environmental Concerns

• Endangered Species:
  • Home to the Gangetic river dolphin, a species protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and classified as endangered by the IUCN.
• Threats from Hydropower Project:
  • Altered water flow and habitat fragmentation
  • Disruption of dolphin migration and breeding patterns
  • Possible submergence of ecologically sensitive areas

Conclusion:

The Kulsi River is more than a watercourse; it is a critical ecological corridor supporting endangered aquatic life. The proposed 55 MW hydropower project, while aimed at boosting regional energy, could significantly threaten biodiversity—especially the survival of the Gangetic river dolphin. Sustainable alternatives and comprehensive environmental assessments are essential before proceeding with infrastructure development in such sensitive ecosystems.