NGT Mandates Fresh EC For Coal Source Switch
Why focus: Clusters with SO2 rules for TPP regulation focus; tests EIA notification mechanics and NGT mandates in GS3 Environment MCQs.
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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BEFORE: Thermal power plants could switch their fuel source (e.g., from imported to domestic coal) simply by complying with default conditions, skipping the lengthy Environmental Clearance process. NOW: Changing the coal source is treated as a material change requiring prior Environmental Clearance and a fresh Environmental Impact Assessment under Regulation 7(2) of the EIA Notification 2006.
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BEFORE: The MoEFCC used administrative Office Memorandums to grant blanket procedural exemptions for coal sourcing flexibility. NOW: The NGT has struck down these memorandums, ruling that administrative orders cannot create de facto legislative exemptions that bypass scientific scrutiny and public hearings.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the environmental regulations for thermal power plants in India? 1. Under the EIA Notification 2006, any change in the raw material mix that could increase the pollution load requires prior Environmental Clearance. 2. The National Green Tribunal has the jurisdiction to quash administrative Office Memorandums issued by the MoEFCC if they violate statutory environmental laws.