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The State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) is set to solicit legal counsel following the National Green Tribunal's (NGT) repeal of the environmental clearance for Technopark Phase 3's expansion. The project, managed by Dragonstone Realty Private Limited, involves substantial mixed land-use development.
Recently, SEIAA convened a meeting where it was resolved that they will seek advice from the Standing Counsel about possible appeal procedures in light of this judgment. Further, the Advocate General or an Additional Advocate General will be requested to represent the case if a review petition is submitted by the project proponent.
SEIAA sources have insinuated that they complied with all necessary procedures during the environmental clearance issuance. They also expressed a belief in the importance of presenting the facts correctly and accurately. In this regard, a comprehensive report will be dispatched to the Standing Counsel when the case is under scrutiny by either the High Court or the NGT.
In a strategic move, SEIAA has delegated Jude Emmanuel, an environmental scientist, to provide essential support to the Standing Counsel throughout the case. Emmanuel's expertise will prove valuable in presenting the technical aspects of the case before the apex court, NGT, and the High Court.
The revocation of the environmental clearance, initially granted to Dragonstone Realty Pvt. Ltd by SEIAA, came after the NGT found that the approval of the main Phase-3 projects and its expansion was an infringement of a Supreme Court dictum. The NGT emphasized that such project splitting was an inappropriate approach.
The NGT has consequently directed SEIAA to reconsider the proposal and ascertain that Dragonstone Realty Pvt. Ltd conducts a cumulative impact assessment for the entire Phase-3 project. This assessment will help identify required mitigation measures to alleviate any potential adverse environmental impacts stemming from the construction of the main project.
The NGT, in its order, also urged the Union ministry to take suitable action against the authorities culpable for the Phase-3 project's environmental clearance approval. They further critiqued the SEIAA for not considering the project holistically and for treating Phase-3 as an expansion without due diligence.
In conclusion, as SEIAA navigates the legalities of the NGT's order, it's clear that the Technopark Phase 3 project faces significant obstacles. The ultimate resolution will likely serve as a precedent for future environmental clearance processes, highlighting the importance of holistic consideration and cumulative impact studies in such projects.
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