Core projects may not need green nod

New Delhi: In an effort to accelerate big-ticket infrastructure projects, the government is considering changes in existing environmental laws including a withdrawal of mandatory environmental clearance ahead of modernization of airports and ports. However, greenfield projects that are developed from scratch (the airport and port projects will largely require redevelopment) will continue to require this clearance.
While companies welcomed this change, environmental activists say it will dilute India’s already weak environmental laws.
The changes being considered also include one that will address a long-time complaint of activists by making it mandatory for environmental consultants to register with the Quality Council of India, an independent body created by the government. This will prevent the recurrence of incidents where some environmental consultants have managed to obtain clearances for projects on the basis of reports that have been subsequently found to be fraudulent.
07/03/08 Padmaparna Ghosh/Livemint

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Categories: Indian Aviation- In General Mar 2008