Chhattisgarh's Hasdeo-Arand Forest Faces Major Coal Mining Approval

The Environment Ministry's advisory panel has given its in-principle approval to a controversial coal mining project in Chhattisgarh's Hasdeo-Arand forest. The decision allows the cutting of approximately 4.48 lakh trees, raising significant environmental concerns.

The project, located in Surguja district's Kente Extension Opencast Coal Block, is being developed by the Adani group and was allocated to Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited in 2015. Environmental advocates are alarmed, pointing out the potential for irreversible ecological damage.

Hasdeo-Arand's unique ecosystem supports dense Sal forests, rich biodiversity, and species such as elephants, sloth bears, and leopards. Concerns include disruption to the nearby Lemru elephant corridor, with fears that elephant movements could be hindered.

The FAC noted environmental studies indicating risks of soil and gully erosion, adding pressure on the decision. Alok Shukla from Chhattisgarh Bachao Andolan highlighted the threat to local water sources and habitats, emphasizing the impact on tribal communities.

While the committee recommended phased mining operations and compensatory afforestation, these have not assuaged concerns over long-term ecological degradation and its broader implications.

(With inputs from agencies.)