Environment Ministry Eases Clearance Process For Coal-Based Projects

NEW DELHI: The environment ministry has allowed developers of coal-based power, steel and sponge iron projects to apply for its clearance even as environmental and forest approval for the linked coal mine or block is under its consideration, easing the clearance process for these industries.
In its order, the ministry said that developers can apply for clearance simultaneously with that for the linked coal block or mine, however, the environmental clearance will be officially granted only after preliminary forest clearance is granted to the linked coal source.
The move comes as a relief for promoters of thermal power projects, steel and sponge iron manufacturing units using domestic coal.
At present, developers in these sectors have had to wait for a final forest and environment clearance for the linked coal source before applying for the ministry’s approval for the project.