Government to deal firmly with legal roadblocks in infrastructure projects: Prakash Javadekar

After taking charge of the department six months ago, he has almost cleared 80 projects. The union minister plans to bring major reforms in coastal regulation act, redefining the buffer zone in the forest region after adequate consultations with Maharashtra government.

In a shocking revelation he said, “ Almost every single decision taken by the ministry of environment often lands in prolonged legal battle. And most surprisingly, we did not even have a full fledged legal cell to expeditiously tackle the problems.” Now, while safeguarding the environmental guidelines in every single case, we would also have a mechanism to deal firmly with PILs which come in the way of projects.

To bring the change within the department, Javadekar has convened a three “shibirs” (camps) comprising 200 officials related to the ministry and its subsidaries in Banglore, Chennai and Kolkotta. It will be zone wise where brain storming session would be held to evolve new plans and policies related to ministry of environment.

The union minister who has ensured there is perfect balance between development and environment has noted that legal challenges which are amongst the highest faced by the ministry of environment needs to be expeditiously dealt to keep the pace of development intact.

As a first step forward he has directed his ministry to file the caveat along with the decisions taken to give “green nod” to projects. He believes, “ The government cannot engage in prolonged legal battle on non-issues.”

Citing several examples in Maharashtra he said, “ A blanket ban on projects in Sindhurdurg and Ratnagiri districts of Konkan region citing eco-sensitive zone was absolutely ridiculous.” The enforcement of decision meant a villager could not even acquire the local red laterite stone required for the repair and construction of houses.

The union minister indicated that often the experts reports were exaggerated when it came to its enforcement by the department. As a result, often overreaction adversely affected the projects in the region.

In case of Mumbai, he said, “ The enforcement of 500 metres no development zone along the coastal stretch needs to be reviewed. While the government believes the environmental safeguards cannot be compromised to retain the greenery, it cannot be blindly executed and stall the development work.” Javedakar said, “ The centre is positively considering the coastal road project.” Admitting,. “ The decision to give environment clearance to Chatrpati Shivaji Statue in Arabian Sea was taken after careful study and verifying all the environmental norms.”