Want parity in rules for hydro-power projects: Harish Rawat

The Uttarakhand government has sought parity in environmental clearances for hydro-power projects in the state and has put up its views categorically and strongly before the Supreme Court, Chief Minister Harish Rawat said on Tuesday.

Interacting with reporters in Bijapur, he said there cannot be two set of rules - one for Uttarakhand and other for hill states like Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir.

"People have made so much fuss about these hydro-power projects in Uttarakhand," he said.

The chief minister also slammed some sections of the society who he alleged had made Uttarakhand a "test land for environmental conservation", adding the people of the state were responsible enough to preserve and protect the environment in the state.

To a question about the fate of the annual 'Char Dham Yatra', especially due to inclement weather, Rawat said the day the doors of the shrines will open, the yatra will begin.

"There are difficulties, and for the staff working to restore the area in seven-eight feet deep ice it is indeed difficult. We have made alternative plans and hope to kick-start the annual pilgrimage on time," Rawat added.