NGT stays LPG terminal construction at Kochi.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has stayed the construction of the LPG terminal proposed by the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) at Puthu Vypeen.

It was on a petition from two local residents, who contended that the Environmental Clearance issued for the project had expired and the company was carrying out construction in the inter-tidal zone, that the South Zone Bench of the NGT issued the order on Wednesday.

While ordering the company to maintain the status quo at the site, the Bench directed that a multidisciplinary team inspect the site and report on the alleged violations.

The petitioners contended that the company was constructing the terminal at a different spot though it had obtained the clearance for construction. The Environment Clearance granted for the project mandated that it shall be constructed between 200 metres and 300 metres from the High Tide Line.

However, the construction was progressing in the intertidal zone and in the distance between the High Tide Line and 200 metres, he said. The NGT ordered that a committee consisting of representatives of the Ministry of Environment and Forest, Elamkunnappuzha gram panchayat, and the Kerala Coastal Zone Management Authority inspect the site and file a report when the Bench meets on August 2.

THE HINDU