Environmental justice in the hydropower sector of Nepal : A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Lincoln University

Abstract

Hydropower development on a global scale is prioritised as an efficient, cost-effective and renewable source of energy production. However, the proliferation of hydropower development is often debated due to its various social and environmental implications. Such implications of hydropower development are framed within environmental justice concerns. How environmental justice in hydropower development is perceived depends largely upon the local context, which urges further exploration of environmental justice concepts in the distinct socio-environmental scenarios. The overarching aim of this thesis is to examine how environmental justice concepts are implemented in the hydropower sector of Nepal. The research employed qualitative methods. Key legislation document analysis, along with fieldwork that encompassed in-depth interviews with a diverse range of people and field-level observation were carried out. The research incorporates national-level context along with exploring hydropower development dynamics at a local level through field investigation at two distinct hydropower project sites – the Tanahu Hydropower Project and the Arun-3 Hydroelectric Project. The research also examined the wider social, cultural and political development of Nepal to frame the overall context of environmental justice. This thesis argues that the dominant account of the 'national' development of the country through the development of hydropower projects, in most instances, bypasses addressing environmental justice concerns. Such environmental justice concerns are more often related to the complex historical, cultural, and social contexts of Nepalese society. The dominant policies and practices adopted by the nation that prioritise economic growth have undermined the distinct concerns of marginalised groups, such as the Dalit communities and Indigenous peoples. This thesis also illustrates that, despite federalist state structures that prioritise democratic practices, these practices are overpowered by a top-down governance system limiting the influence of local people and local government bodies in key decision-making processes of hydropower development. The hegemony of central governance power is apparent despite some progressive legislative attempts. This thesis highlights the importance of incorporating a context-sensitive approach into environmental justice frameworks. The thesis signifies the importance of analysing environmental justice concerns, particularly in non-Western contexts like Nepal, which reflects persistent caste-based discrimination and distinct forms of Indigeneity.

Keywords: Environmental Justice, Hydropower Project, Dalits, Indigenous Peoples, Nepal.