Disregard of aquatic shrews in the Environmental Impact Assessment reports regarding hydropower dams in the Nepal Himalayas

• DOI: 10.1002/rra.4238
• Publication Date: 2024-01-12T04:29:55Z
• Authors: Sagar Dahal; Kaustuv Raj Neupane; Bashu Dev Baral; Simon Poulton
• Keywords: Shrew; Mammal

Abstract The rate of hydropower dam construction on rivers is increasing in emerging economies South Asia, to achieve economic development goals. These large infrastructure projects are likely have many negative consequences freshwater species but not yet received much consideration. Among small mammalian species, water shrews seriously impacted by these structures. This paper aims determine if been considered during the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) hydro project sites, as well present sightings from Nepalese with potential. We reviewed 44 EIA reports such Nepal using a set four criteria and 15 questions analyze methods impact assessment for mammals presence each built area. study found that number mammal reported varied five 55 no relationships between structure's size any shrew were studies. In almost all reports, term aquatic ecosystem was prioritized over mammals, latter assessment. major reason considering probably due lack robust capture shrews, or survey focused only terrestrial mammals. Aquatic Animal Protection Act fully assured be followed majority monitoring parameters indicators available Ignoring while constructing plants serious threat their persistence. also Himalayan Barun River elegant Upper Tamakoshi Nepal. Therefore, better understanding among developers, concerned agencies, essential.