The Union government has established a three-member Group of Ministers (GoM) to evaluate the environmental effects of the Rs 76.22 Bn Vadhvan Port project in Maharashtra’s Palghar district. Headed by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, the GoM also includes Sarbananda Sonowal and Bhupender Yadav, who leads the Ministries of Ports and Environment respectively.

The GoM will analyse the environmental impact assessment presented by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), an expert body. It is also authorised to consult additional experts and refer matters for further technical opinions before submitting recommendations.

This initiative follows the Supreme Court’s directive in a hearing on February 28 regarding several petitions filed by the National Fishworkers Forum and environmental groups challenging the project's clearance. The apex court clarified that all related activities, including land acquisition, are subject to future judicial orders.

NEERI has been tasked with assessing expert reports as per the terms set by the Ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee. Its findings will be submitted through the Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.

The GoM’s recommendations will influence whether environmental clearance for the project is upheld or reconsidered.

Source:Maritime News