(a) whether environmental clearance has been given to the Nagarjun Thermal Power Project in Karnataka;
(b) if so, the reasons for giving the clearance inspite of earlier objections;
(c) whether clearance has been given on the assumption that it would use only high sulphur content imported coal; and
(d) whether the plant will require an imported high cost desulphurisation plant which will increase the cost of generation?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) The proposal was accorded environmental clearance based on the appraisal and recommendation of the Expert Committee.
(c) While according environmental clearance to this project, it has been stipulated that the sulphur content in the coal shall not exceed 0.8%.
(d) The State Pollution Control Board in their NOC for this project had stipulated for installation of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) plant which has also been reiterated by this Ministry while according environmental clearance for this project.