NTPC runs into another green hurdle in Chhattisgarh

NTPC had applied for Environmental Clearance for ensuring a production capacity of 18.72 million tonne per year from both underground and open cast operations and the output would be used for the 4,000 MW Lara super thermal power project. Of the total project cost of Rs 677 crore,Rs 214 crore is to be utilised towards rehabilitation operations.

The environment ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) said the area was frequented by several endangered species such as elephant,bear and leopard,a fact NTPC did not mention in its Environment Impact Assessment-Environment Management Plan Report. The EAC has observed that “the wildlife plan is under preparation and approval of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Chhattisgarh is yet to be obtained”. The panel has asked the company to ensure that its conservation plan provides for corridors within the project area for safe passage of animals.

The EAC has also observed that being predominantly a tribal area,trees felled would impact the livelihood of the villagers who are dependent on Mahua and minor forest produce and the project would also disturb their water resources. It asked NTPC to address the issue of providing alternate livelihood to the tribals and furnish details. The Committee has desired that the provision under the Tribal Development Plan be increased to Rs 10 crore from Rs 5 crore and that the expenditure on corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities be at the rate of Rs 5 per tonne of coal or more.

The EAC has deferred the consideration of NTPC’s proposal as there were a number of objections raised during the public hearing. It asked the company to act on issues raised during the hearing and to furnish the details with budgetary provisions.