Vedanta's Green Copper Ambitions: A New Chapter for Tamil Nadu

Vedanta's Sterlite Copper unit seeks approval from Tamil Nadu authorities for its green copper plant initiative. The Madras High Court has directed that fresh applications are necessary, following past violations. Despite previous challenges, Vedanta aims to demonstrate the integration of industrial growth with environmental sustainability in Tamil Nadu.

Vedanta's Sterlite Copper unit is poised to submit a new application to Tamil Nadu authorities for its proposed green copper plant, as the Madras High Court recently clarified.

The court's decision came in response to a writ petition by Vedanta, which urged the Tamil Nadu government to address its plans to alter the original copper production process in favor of environmental initiatives. The Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G Arul Murugan, acknowledged previous consent breaches leading to the industry's closure. The court emphasized that a formal application, rather than mere representations, is essential for the project's consideration.

Advocate PR Kovilan, representing a pro-environment citizens group, noted the opportunity for Vedanta to officially pursue its green copper manufacturing aspirations, highlighting the potential for harmonious coexistence of industrial progress and environmental care. As Vedanta prepares to proceed, it underscores a pivotal moment in Tamil Nadu's trajectory towards sustainable development.

(With inputs from agencies.)