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Bhadradri power plant gets NGT nod
It appears that decks have been cleared for the resumption of 4x270 MW Bhadradri Thermal Power Station (BTPS) works that came to a grinding halt a few weeks ago. The southern bench of the NGT reportedly made it clear that it’s not possible to direct the project proponent to demolish the structure already put up near Manuguru in Khammam district.
Hyderabad: It appears that decks have been cleared for the resumption of 4x270 MW Bhadradri Thermal Power Station (BTPS) works that came to a grinding halt a few weeks ago. The southern bench of the NGT reportedly made it clear that it’s not possible to direct the project proponent to demolish the structure already put up near Manuguru in Khammam district.
It may be mentioned here that the NGT had issued a stay on the construction of the plant in December following a petition filed by the Human Rights Forum (HRF). The HRF alleged that TSGENCO began construction of the plant violating several environmental laws. The petitioner also complained that TSGenco had taken up the construction activity without obtaining environmental clearances from the MoEF which is mandatory.
The petitioner again moved the tribunal alleging that TSGenco was continuing its construction operation despite the ex-parte orders. The MoEF sent senior scientist MT Karuppiah to take stock of the situation at the plant.
The site inspection report submitted by Karuppiah on January 11 stated that the project proponent had already commenced and continuing the construction activities without obtaining prior environmental clearances and the ‘Consent for Establishment’ from the State Pollution Control Board.
Following this, the tribunal allowed the TSGenco to file objection, if any, with regard to the site report submitted by the MoEF. Moreover, the tribunal also made it clear to the TSGENCO that appraisal of the plant by MoEF cannot be allowed.
Against this backdrop, the tribunal on Monday reportedly dismissed the plea of the petitioner (HRF). Further the tribunal stated that it’s not possible to direct the third respondent (TSGENCO) to demolish the structure already put up.
The tribunal in its order also told the MoEF to proceed with the appraisal process of the plant. In the event of the Environmental Appraisal Committee (EAC)’s acceptance, the appraisal can be carried on. The MoEF should issue appropriate orders within eight weeks in regard with the Environmental Clearance (EC).
This apart, the tribunal told the Pollution Control Board (second respondent) to initiate appropriate penal action against the TSGENCO for violation of Environment Impact Assessment (EIA).
Speaking to The Hans India, TSGENCO Chairman and Managing Director D Prabhakar Rao said: “We will adhere to the directions of the tribunal. The government will try to get the EC as early as possible.
After obtaining the EC, we will resume the construction and work full throttle to complete the plant.” Referring to the direction to the PCB to take appropriate penal action against the TSGENCO, the HRF (petitioner) AP&TS General Secretary VS Krishna said: “The tribunal order clearly indicates that there was a brazen violation of environmental, WALTA and other acts by the project proponent.”
