Chhattisgarh impact

Environment impact assessments (EIAs) and the process for clearing projects in Chhattisgarh don't inspire faith. Jindal Steel and Power Limited's (JSPL's) expansion is a case in point. The plant received environment clearance for increasing its capacity from 600,000 tonnes per annum of sponge iron to 720,000 tonnes per annum on August 3, 2004. This expansion required 41 hectares (ha), which were available within the plant's existing premises. Within a fortnight of receiving clearance, JSPL applied for clearance for yet another expansion. This time the expansion will spread over three villages: Saraipalli, Gorkha and Kalami.

The EIA did not indicate the number of people who would be affected by the expansion and the number of villages within the area likely to be affected was grossly underestimated