Environment ministry exempts forest clearance rules for road development

07 Dec 2021 CW Team

The ministry of environment, forest and climate change has exempted the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and state road user agencies from forest clearance if the right of way (RoW) belongs to them.

The clarification released to state governments on October 26, 2021, by the MoEFCC's forest conservation division states that if the possession of land rests with MoRTH or NHAI or state road constructing agency, it is not a 'forest' according to the government records, and the same land is under 'non-forest use' before October 25, 1980, then terms of FCA would not apply.

Kishor Rithe, the state wildlife board member, told the media that the move would make way for unrestricted development and influence wildlife and its corridors.

The MoEFCC decision is based on a meeting of the group of infrastructure conducted on August 24 under the chairmanship of road transport minister Nitin Gadkari to address clarity on applicability of FCA over RoW roads, possession of which rests with the NHAI or state governments.

Image Source

Infrastructure Urban

07 Oct 2025

India To Invest $37 Billion To Boost Petrochemical Capacity

India is set to become a major global player in the petrochemicals industry, driven by a planned capital expenditure of $37 billion (Rs 3.1 trillion) aimed at reducing import dependency and enhancing self-sufficiency, according to S&P Global Ratings.In its latest report titled “First China, Now India: Self-Sufficiency Goals Will Add To Petrochemicals Supply”, S&P said India’s large-scale capacity expansion—mirroring China’s earlier push—will likely intensify oversupply pressures in Asia’s petrochemical markets.Currently the world’s third-largest petrochemical consumer a..

Indian Railways Expands Global Exports Of Rail Equipment

Indian Railways has announced that it is rapidly emerging as a global exporter of railway equipment, including bogies, coaches, locomotives, and propulsion systems, under the government’s ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ initiative.According to an official statement, India’s railway products are now reaching over 16 international markets, reflecting the country’s growing capacity to design, develop, and deliver world-class rail solutions.Metro coaches have been exported to Australia and Canada; bogies to the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia; propulsion systems t..

RailTel Awards Rs 163 Million Contract To RTNS Technology

RailTel Corporation of India Limited (RailTel), a Mini Ratna Public Sector Undertaking, has awarded a domestic work order worth Rs 163 million to RTNS Technology Private Limited.The contract, issued on 30 September 2025, involves the supply and installation of equipment and related services for one of RailTel’s key customers. The project underscores RailTel’s commitment to advancing technology and communication infrastructure through collaboration with domestic system integrators.RTNS Technology Private Limited, an ISO-certified system integrator, provides comprehensive solutions for perim..