Coal projects awaiting environmental clearance

Twenty-nine coal projects meant for power generation in the country are awaiting environmental clearance, the Lok Sabha was informed today.

"Coal India has requested the Environment ministry to expedite the process of environment clearance," Jairam Ramesh, who holds the charge of the ministry, said in a written reply.    

He said, the number of coal projects pending environment clearance is 29, of which four projects have been recommended for environmental clearance and in respect of the remaining 25 projects, clarification sought by the Expert Appraisal Committee (thermal and coal mining) are awaited.

The minister further stated that the project proponents have been advised to prepare environmental impact assessment report along with environmental management plans to address the green issues so that the proposals can be expeditiously granted environmental clearance.

Regarding infrastructural projects, Ramesh while replying to another query, said that as on date a total of 17 infrastructural projects from various states await environmental clearance.

"Generally decisions on the projects are taken within 105 days of the receipt of complete information, as provided for the Environment Impact Assessment notification, 2006," the minister added.