Q. What role do environmental NGOs and activists play in influencing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) outcomes for major projects in India? Cite four examples with all important details.

Model Answer:

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

Environmental NGOs and activists play a crucial role in influencing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) outcomes for major projects in India. Their involvement includes:

• Raising public awareness about potential environmental impacts
• Conducting independent studies to challenge or supplement official EIAs
• Mobilizing local communities and stakeholders
• Filing legal petitions and Public Interest Litigations (PILs)
• Pressuring government bodies for transparency and compliance

Four notable examples of NGO and activist influence on EIA outcomes:

1. Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) and Sardar Sarovar Project:
– NBA challenged the EIA process, highlighting inadequate rehabilitation plans
– Resulted in World Bank withdrawing funding and project modifications

2. Vedanta’s Bauxite Mining Project, Niyamgiri Hills, Odisha:
– Local activists and international NGOs exposed violations in the EIA
– Supreme Court mandated local gram sabha consultations, leading to project cancellation

3. Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, Tamil Nadu:
– People’s Movement Against Nuclear Energy questioned the EIA’s adequacy
– Led to additional safety measures and delayed project implementation

4. Mumbai Coastal Road Project:
– NGOs like Conservation Action Trust highlighted EIA shortcomings
– Resulted in temporary work suspension and ongoing legal battles

These examples demonstrate how environmental NGOs and activists have significantly influenced EIA outcomes through various strategies, often leading to project modifications or cancellations.

Conclusion: NGOs and activists serve as crucial watchdogs, enhancing the EIA process’s effectiveness and environmental governance in India.