The National Green Tribunal has upheld the National Environment Appellate Authority decision to suspend environmental clearance for the proposed 2,640 MW thermal plant of NCC Ltd.

The implementation of the thermal plant at Sompeta in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh has hit the environmental hurdle and faced with resistance from local villagers.

The tribunal has directed the Government to consider fresh hearing on the project.

Local organisations such as Paryavarana Parirakshana Sangham, which spearheaded the movement against the NCC project, have welcomed the tribunal order.

Their contention is that the Government allotted 972 acres for the power project, which includes wet lands and also serves as a drinking water source to locals. Therefore, the project location is not right and against local interests.

When contacted, Mr Y.D. Murthy, Senior Vice-President Finance, NCC, said that the company has given up on the Sompeta project and instead executing a project in Nellore district of the State. The project is at advanced stage of implementation after achieving financial closure.

“However, we are hopeful that the Government and people will reason out and take an appropriate decision in considering the power project. We had everything ready for the project execution when locals raised the issue,” he explained.

The Government had directed stoppage of work in 2010 at the site after violent protests by local farmers leading to police firing and death of three locals.

vrishi@thehindu.co.in

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