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The National Green Tribunal has allowed the INR 90,000 crore Great Nicobar infrastructure project to move ahead, stating that the environmental clearance already granted includes adequate safeguards. The tribunal found no grounds to interfere after examining objections related to ecological impact, forest diversion, and tribal rights. It noted that issues raised by petitioners had been reviewed earlier by a high-powered committee. While disposing of the pleas, the tribunal directed authorities to ensure strict compliance with all clearance conditions during project execution.
The National Green Tribunal has upheld the environmental clearance granted to the Great Nicobar mega infrastructure project, observing that the approval process had incorporated sufficient environmental safeguards. The tribunal concluded that the concerns raised in multiple petitions did not warrant cancellation or suspension of the clearance and that regulatory authorities had followed due process. Advertisement
The project, estimated to cost around INR 90,000 crore, is planned over nearly 166 square kilometres in Great Nicobar Island. It includes a container transshipment port at Galathea Bay, an international airport with dual civilian and defence use, a gas- and solar-based power plant with a capacity of about 450 MVA, and an integrated township. The development requires diversion of approximately 130 square kilometres of forest land in a region known for rich biodiversity.
The tribunal noted that environmental and wildlife-related concerns had already been examined by a high-powered committee constituted earlier to assess the clearance conditions. According to the tribunal, the committee's recommendations were incorporated into the final approval, along with mitigation measures related to forest conservation, wildlife protection, and monitoring mechanisms.
Petitioners had argued that the project could cause irreversible damage to fragile ecosystems and affect the rights and livelihoods of indigenous communities such as the Shompen and Nicobarese tribes. They also questioned the adequacy of impact assessments and compliance with environmental laws. The tribunal acknowledged these concerns but stated that they had been addressed within the framework of the clearance and subsequent reviews.
While disposing of the cases, the tribunal directed project authorities and regulators to strictly adhere to all environmental clearance conditions. It also made it clear that any deviation or non-compliance during implementation could invite regulatory action.
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