NGT Greenlights Strategic Great Nicobar Port Project Amid Environmental Safeguards

The National Green Tribunal has approved the International Container Transhipment Terminal in Great Nicobar Island, affirming that adequate environmental safeguards are in place. This decision comes amidst concerns over possible violations of the Island Coastal Regulation Zone. The tribunal emphasizes balanced development while protecting the island's ecological and tribal communities.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has given the go-ahead for the establishment of the International Container Transhipment Terminal on Great Nicobar Island, asserting that necessary environmental safeguards are upheld in the clearance conditions.

In a recent ruling, the NGT's eastern zonal bench in Kolkata, led by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, addressed opposition to the project which encompasses the terminal, a township, area development, and a 450 MVA gas and solar power plant. Initial petitions questioned the project's clearances, citing violations under the Island Coastal Regulation Zone notification.

The tribunal emphasized that earlier concerns were addressed by a high-powered committee and acknowledged the project's strategic importance. It underscored the need for a balanced developmental approach that respects ecological and tribal aspects of Great Nicobar Island.

(With inputs from agencies.)