There are numerous cases where commercial projects or companies have been granted approvals putting people at risk who are affected by the environmental projects. It is extensively perceived that financial gains are usually prioritized at the cost of public interest. Well, environmental clearance, EC, is a mandatory process that involves you getting a clearance from the government regarding certain projects that may cause environment-related pollution. The government has made a list of projects that need an EC letter from MOEF such as thermal power plants, mining, infrastructure and etc. The EIA notification classifies the projects into two: A) Get clearance from the ministry of environment, forest and climate change. B) Get clearance from the state environmental impact assessment.
BELOW LISTED ARE A FEW STEPS THAT THE PROCESS CONSISTS OF:
- Project advocates identify the location of the proposed plant only after making sure it’s in compliance with the sitting guidelines. If the site doesn’t agree with the guidelines, the proponent is required to identify other sites for the project.
- The project proponent is then required to evaluate if the proposed project falls under the view of environmental clearance. If it is mentioned under the schedule of the notification, the proponent carries out an EIA study either directly or under the assistance of a consultant. If your project falls under category B, the project conducts the state government t for clearance that further classifies into B1 and B2 projects.
- Once the EIA report is ready, the investor connects with the concerned SPCB (State Pollution Control Board) and the State Forest Department. The SPCB assess the quality and quantity of effluents to be generated by the proposed unit and the efficacy of the control measures proposed by the investor to meet the standards.
- The public hearing is a mandatory step of the process to get environmental clearance for specific development projects. This offers a legal space for people to come face to face with the project proponents and the government expressing their concerns.
And some more steps that a consultant with help you with. Once all the requisite documents from the project authorities are received and public hearings have been held, an assessment of the project is conducted from the environmental angle to be completed within 90 days. The clearance granted shall be valid for five years for the commencement of the operation of a project. You can ask the consultant for assistance with half yearly compliance report and more. Connect with the best today!
