Walhi rejects electricity plan

Walhi rejects electricity plan

PALU, Central Sulawesi: The local chapter of the Indonesian
Environmental Forum (Walhi) rejected a plan to develop a water-
powered electricity generator, fearing it would cause
environmental damage to the Lore Lindu National Park.

"Walhi rejects the development of PLTA PLN III or PLTA Gumbasa
since it would stand on national park land," the chapter's
executive director, Harley, said on Sunday.

The local administration planned the project in a bid to cater
for electricity demand in the province. But Harley said he could
not accept any reason to harm the environment and ecosystem of
the park.

Meanwhile, the Central Sulawesi administration spokesman,
Longki Djanggola, played down Walhi's suspicion, saying that the
generator would be built outside the park.

"The generator's turbine will be placed some nine kilometers
away from the national park," he said. He admitted, however, that
the generator would need water supply from the park. (jun)