After a long delay, the Tamil Nadu Government’s plan to expand Cuddalore port has got environment and CRZ clearance from the Centre. The plan, which will cost Rs.1.35 bn, is to enhance the cargo handling capacity by constructing two additional berths, with the necessary modifications to the existing breakwaters. An expert appraisal committee of the Environment Ministry granted clearance subject to conditions, including independent monitoring by a government or institute to evaluate impact during dredging. No underwater blasting is permitted. The port, which has existed since pre-Independence days, came close to being defunct for want of dredging to make the existing wharf operational for multi-cargo handling, including coal, fertiliser, cement and containers. Contact: Dr A Arun Thamburaj, Vice Chairman & CEO, FAC, Tamil Nadu Maritime Board. Address: No. 171, South Kesavaperumal Puram, Off Greenways Road, Raja Annamalaipuram, Chennai-600 028. Tel: 044-2495 0420. Website: www.tnmaritime.com