Controversial Power Plant Project in Mirzapur Faces Environmental Hurdles

A 1600-megawatt coal-based thermal power plant project in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, faces scrutiny from environmental authorities. The project requires forest land for a water pipeline and road access, and its location falls within a forest area according to a 1952 notification, pending official status under the Indian Forest Act of 1927.

The proposed 1600-megawatt coal-based ultra supercritical thermal power project in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, faces significant scrutiny from environmental authorities.

The National Green Tribunal recently took note of media reports indicating the project's location falls within a forest as per a 1952 gazette notification. However, it is still pending official status under the Indian Forest Act of 1927.

The project, despite not involving direct forest land, requires 8.35 hectares for essential infrastructure. Concerns over the protection of local flora and fauna, including endangered species like the sloth bear, have been raised. There are calls for compliance with rigorous environmental laws before proceeding.

(With inputs from agencies.)