Context
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has stayed the operationalisation of environmental and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearances for the Mormugao Port channel-deepening project in Goa, following concerns over pollution, inadequate environmental assessment and impacts on fishing livelihoods.
Explanation
- Mormugao Port, located at the mouth of the Zuari River in Goa, is a major port on India’s western coast along the Arabian Sea.
- The proposed project involves deepening the approach channel through dredging to accommodate larger vessels and increase cargo-handling capacity.
- Dredging involves removing sediments from the seabed, which can increase water turbidity, disturb marine ecosystems and damage fish spawning grounds.
- Such projects require Environmental Clearance (EC) under the EIA Notification, 2006, issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
- Projects affecting regulated coastal areas also require Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance to safeguard coastal ecosystems and livelihoods.
- The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) evaluates environmental impacts and recommends clearance to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- The NGT, established under the NGT Act, 2010, adjudicates environmental disputes based on principles such as sustainable development and the precautionary principle.
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