Mundra SEZ: Adani asks for additional forest land

The state government has allocated the Adani Group 2008.41 hectares reserve forest land in Mundra for the MPSEZ at a cost of Rs 96. 60 crore. The land has been given on the right-to-use basis as per the Government of India order dated September 30,2009 and as per the Forest Conservation Act,1980.

An official added: “The Forest Department has raised objections,and suggested many riders if the land needs to be given. The company has failed to cite reasonable cause for demanding additional forest land now. The Adanis might have to arrange for alternate non-forest land in the Lion corridor in lieu of land sought in Mundra.”

He further said: “The Mundra land is now used by the villagers so the company will also have to suggest alternate ways for villagers or agree to give passage rights. The said area has excellent deshi babul (Acacia nilotica),so the company will need alternatives for this. If the CMO clears these riders and the company agrees to act upon it,then the state government will give in-principle approval to the company and recommend MoEF for final approval.”