NGT halts highway expansion in Chevella for tree protection

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has postponed a recommendation for the expansion of National Highway-163 in Chevella, India. This decision came after concerns were raised about the potential harm to banyan trees along the road. A full study is needed to address these issues before any progress can be made. The case was brought by three local environmentalists who pointed out gaps in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process. One major worry was that a public hearing, which is typically required, did not occur. The NGT emphasized that environmental assessments should include community input, especially if land acquisition is involved. The NHAI argued that no new land was needed for the project. However, the tribunal stated that previous land acquisitions meant the public hearing was necessary. The report also highlighted that the EIA was conducted before a mandated biodiversity assessment from the Zoological Survey of India was received. This raised concerns about the validity of the environmental review. The tribunal criticized the NHAI for not considering alternatives to protect the banyan trees. It noted that many of the trees proposed for relocation are large, and past efforts to move such trees have often failed. The EIA also lacked data on the success of relocating these trees. Additionally, suggestions were made to acquire more land to preserve the unique heritage of the old banyan trees. The NGT pointed out that failing to explore options and the premature approval of the EIA show that the project has not met the required environmental standards.