NTPC gets environment ministry’s green signal for Mouda project

Barely weeks after farmers demanded higher compensation from National Thermal Power Corporation’s (NTPC) Mouda power plant, the project has been recommended for clearance by the expert appraisal committee of the ministry of environment and forest (MoEF).

The ministry got 17 written responses from locals — the local MLA, ex-MLA and a former member of parliament — most of them opposed the mid-size coal power plant near Nagpur.

The plant, with a capacity of 1,320mw, will go towards meeting a large part of the additional power requirement of Maharashtra. The cost of the project will be Rs6745.29 crores.

The clearance, however, also carries many conditions.
In an attempt to ensure it does not cause any environmental concern, the committee has asked for an environmental cell for the proposed site, comprising at least one expert in environmental science or engineering, occupational health and social scientist.
It also said Arup Roy Choudhury, chairman and managing director of NTPC shall be held responsible for the implementation of environmental regulations and social impact improvement/mitigation measures.

The committee also asked for a well-designed rainwater harvesting system, which will be put in place in six months. Also, an action plan and road map for the implementation will be submitted to the ministry in six months.

As per the minutes of this meeting, the committee said, “The project proponent shall also adequately contribute in the development of the neighbouring villages. Special package with implementation schedule to provide free potable drinking water supply in the nearby villages and schools will be undertaken in a time-bound manner.”

“The company will provide a separate budget for community development activities and income generating programmes. Vocational training programme for possible self employment and jobs shall be imparted to identify villagers free of cost.” it added.

The committee also said that 100% fly ash disposal shall be ensured from the fourth year of operation of the plant.