Environmental Clearance
In India it is a crucial process that ensures projects adhere to environmental regulations.
Let’s explore the key steps involved:
Determine whether your project falls under Category A or Category B based on the
EIA schedule. Category A projects require clearance from the Ministry of Environment,
Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), while Category B projects are cleared by the
State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA).
Screen the project to assess its potential environmental impact.
Identify key issues and stakeholders during the scoping process.
Identify key issues and stakeholders during the scoping process.
Engage with the public, local communities, and other stakeholders.
Gather feedback and address concerns.
Gather feedback and address concerns.
Submit the application for Terms of Reference (TOR) and Environmental Clearance
(EC) online through the PARIVESH portal2.
Include project details, environmental impact assessment (EIA) reports, and mitigation plans.
Include project details, environmental impact assessment (EIA) reports, and mitigation plans.
The MoEFCC or SEIAA reviews the application.
Expert Appraisal Committees (EACs) assess the EIA report and recommend approval or rejection.
Expert Appraisal Committees (EACs) assess the EIA report and recommend approval or rejection.
The EAC evaluates the project’s environmental impact, mitigation measures, and compliance.
If approved, the EC is granted.
If approved, the EC is granted.
The process of obtaining environmental clearance in India typically involves the following
timeline:
Assessment and Evaluation: Once all necessary documents and data are received from
the project authorities, and if public hearings are required, the assessment and
evaluation of the project from an environmental perspective are completed within 90
days.
Decision Notification: The Ministry conveys its decision within 30 days after the assessment is completed.
Clearance Validity: Once granted, the environmental clearance remains valid for five years from the start of project operations.
Decision Notification: The Ministry conveys its decision within 30 days after the assessment is completed.
Clearance Validity: Once granted, the environmental clearance remains valid for five years from the start of project operations.
Please note, this timeline can vary based on the specific project and its complexity.
