MoEFCC gives green clearance for project in Greater Nicobar

The Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has approved the Centre's ambitious Rs 720 billion multi-development projects in Greater Nicobar Island, India's southernmost point and a strategically important area. Last year, the ministry gave the project preliminary approval. The ambitious plans of the Indian government include the construction of an international container transhipment terminal, a military-civil dual-use airport, a solar power plant, and an integrated township. The Indian Navy will be in charge of the port and its development. The MoEF has approved the diversion of more than 130 sq km of forest land and the felling of approximately 850,000 trees for the project. The project is likely to have an impact on the area's mangrove cover and coral reef. The Shompen and Nicobarese tribes live on Greater Nicobar Island. Galathea Bay National Park and Campbell Bay National Park are both close to the project site. Also read: Adani Ports buys 49.38% stake in Indian Oiltanking Gadkari to launch major road work in Bengal’s Siliguri