Protests in Arunachal as Centre clears Dibang project

Green nod to Arunachal's Dibang project

The Environment Ministry has given green clearance to the 2,880 MW Dibang project in Lower Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh. The clearance is valid for 10 years from the date of commissioning and 5 years post this, the Ministry has ordered an impact study to be carried out for downstream areas. However, people in the region are protesting against the decision and allege that the Government has granted clearance without taking into consideration the imminent danger to the evironment, life and property of the downstream region. 

Delhi Government slashes sewer, water development charges to 80%

The Delhi Government has offered to cut sewer, water development charges to one-fifth for unauthorized colonies, if they take the connections of the same within three months. The Government has also ordered the Delhi Jal Board to organize special camps to help residents apply for the same and take up campaigns to make people aware of the new rates. In the meantime, Delhi Jal Board will extend piped-water supply and sewerage services to a number of new colonies.

Government proposes new draft rules for coal power

The Environment Ministry has proposed fresh rules for coal-based power plants, with an aim to significantly cut down the pollution that they create in the country. In the new norms, the Ministry will include dangerous sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxide and mercury in the list of pollutants which need to be reduced by both new and old units. Also, a proposal regarding reducing the water used by these units by restricting the withdrawal of fresh water has been made. Post the release of these norms, the Governement has sought repsonse from both stakeholders and public by June 15.

14 reminders but still no funds for Renukaji dam project

Despite receiving forest clearance early this year, the 175 m high Renukaji dam, that will supply water to Delhi, has not taken off due to lack of funds. The Himachal Pradesh Government which has sought Rs 1,981.35 crore assistance from the Centre has sent 14 reminders to the latter but has not received any response for the same. These funds are 90% grants which the Centre agreed to pay last year, but has yet to release a single penny.

NGT asks for report on River Regulation Zone

While hearing a petition against encroachments on the floodplains of the Yamuna and Hindon river, the National Green Tribunal has ordered the Environment Minsitry to submit the Expert Committee Report on the River Regulation Zone. The order has come following a petition filed with the NGT against the coming up of concrete structures and farm houses on the floodplains of the two rivers in Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Per the petiton, nearly 4,000 acres of land on these floodplains has been encroached.

This is a roundup of important policy matters from May 18-25, 2015. Also read last week's news updates.

Lead image source: SANDRP