NGT hearing on Polavaram: AP seeks more time to file response

Odisha Sun Times Bureau
New Delhi, Apr 28:

While Odisha and Chhattisgarh made submissions on their stand on the controversial Polavaram project during a hearing at the National Green Tribunal (NGT) today, Andhra Pradesh sought more time to make its submission.

The NGT which was conducting a hearing on a petition filed by Dari Linga of Malkangiri fixed the next date of hearing in the case for May 10.

Alleging gross violation of environmental laws by Andhra Pradesh government in going ahead with the controversial Polavaram project Dari Linga of Malkangiri had moved the NGT.

“A 2011 letter of Jairam Ramesh is very clear wherein he has accepted that no environment clearance has been granted. Now we have filed our affidavit in this matter. Andhra Pradesh appeared in this matter and they sought time to file response to the reply filed by the state of Odisha and state of Chhattisgarh. The court is pleased to grant that,” Atul Ojha petitioner’s counsel.

Notably, as many as 15 revenue villages and 10 other residential areas of Motu area would become submerged because of the project.

Further, 6818 people would need to be displaced and 7656 hectares of land would become submerged if the Polavaram project goes ahead as per its current plan.

Odisha and Chhattisgarh governments are opposed to the project.