Supreme Court to Hear Petitions Against Adani's Wind Power Project

The Sri Lanka Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing on October 14 for five petitions challenging the Adani Group's wind power project in Mannar. Environmental NGOs argue the project threatens biodiversity and migratory birds. The court has mandated objections to be filed by September 13.

The Sri Lanka Supreme Court has scheduled October 14 for the hearing of five fundamental rights petitions against the Adani Group's wind power plant in Mannar. This follows concerns raised by environmental NGOs over threats to biodiversity and migratory birds.

Respondents, including the government, the Board of Investment, and the Central Environmental Authority, have been directed to submit objections by September 13, as ordered by the three-member bench of the apex court.

The Wildlife and Nature Protection Society, which filed the case, criticized the Cabinet's decision to classify the Adani project as a bilateral venture between Sri Lanka and India, describing it as illegal and environmentally damaging. Additionally, the group opposed the exclusion of Viddathalathivu from being a forest reserve to facilitate the project.

Previously, the Supreme Court had granted the government and Adani Group three weeks from June 18 to file preliminary objections to the petitions. The controversial project includes 484 MW wind power stations with a total investment of USD 750 million, significant for Sri Lanka's goal of achieving 70% renewable energy by 2030.

(With inputs from agencies.)