4th Oct., 2018


The race was between the slow-moving turtles and the industrial projects for India’s fast developing economy – the latter won.

The expert panels of the Indian government’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) have recently recommended green clearances for two separate projects that involve nesting grounds for olive ridley turtles. The nod for green clearances may not spell happiness for the turtles even though the expert committees have tried to ensure the highest safety for the marine creatures.  

One of the projects that has sought environmental and CRZ clearance is the development of a multi-product Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and a Free Trade Warehousing Zone (FTWZ) in Kutch district of Gujarat, estimated to cost Rs. 392.43 billion (Rs. 39,243 crore).

The SEZ industrial project covers 3147.7 acres and includes a thermal power plant, a gas-based power plant and other units. 

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