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The Assam government has informed that no Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies have been conducted for the Sagarmala Projects in the state, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said in a written reply in Lok Sabha.
EIA is the evaluation of the environmental impacts of a proposed project, considering socioeconomic, cultural, and human health impacts. In India, EIA is supported by the Environment Protection Act of 1986.
Sonowal informed the Lok Sabha that the Government of India has given in-principle approval for 100% financial assistance under the Sagarmala Scheme for the development of eight smaller terminals and two slipways along the National Waterways-2 on the Brahmaputra river in Assam.
The minister instructed the Assam government to revise the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), obtain clearances, and initiate the tendering process, signalling progress in project implementation.
Sagarmala Projects in Assam
The Sagarmala Project, announced by the Indian Government in 2015, aims to promote port-led development by using the country's 7,500 km coastline to improve infrastructure for transporting goods to and from ports efficiently and cost-effectively.
In Assam, the Sagarmala Program includes ten projects worth Rs 1,185 crore focused on waterways development and connectivity. These projects consist of four completed projects worth Rs 157.4 crore and six ongoing projects valued at Rs 1,028 crore.
The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways will provide 100% financial assistance for developing eight smaller terminals and two slipways along National Waterways-2, with a total outlay of Rs 645.56 crore. The Assam government has been asked to revise Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), obtain clearances, and initiate the tendering process.
The passenger terminals at Bahari, Dhubri, Disangukh, Ghagor, Goalpara, Guijan, Kurua, and Matmora are expected to be completed in 27 months. The slipways at Majuli and Dhubri are expected to be completed in 36 months.
Environmental Concerns
The minister in Lok Sabha revealed the absence of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies for the Sagarmala Projects in Assam, raising concerns among environmentalists and local communities. EIA evaluates potential environmental impacts of proposed projects, backed by the Environment Protection Act of 1986 in India.
Sonowal says no EIA studies for Sagarmala Projects in Assam. In 2022, environmental and social screening and scoping were done for passenger terminals. This highlights a gap in environmental planning for the Sagarmala Scheme.
The Sagarmala Projects in Assam, presented to the Lok Sabha, highlight challenges and opportunities. They promise to boost infrastructure, potentially leading to economic growth and improved connectivity. The lack of comprehensive environmental impact studies raises concerns about potential ecological disruptions in the sensitive river ecosystems of Assam.
Looking ahead
As projects progress, there’s a growing demand for transparent environmental assessments. Stakeholders, like local communities, environmental groups, and policymakers, emphasize sustainable development aligned with ecological preservation.
The next months will be crucial as the Assam government revises DPRs and initiates the tendering process. The authorities’ approach to environmental concerns while pushing for infrastructural development will be closely watched.
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