NGT Halts Infrastructure Projects in Kolleru Wetland + UPSC?.ToString()?? UPSC?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has restrained the Andhra Pradesh government from proceeding with six major infrastructure projects in the ecologically sensitive Kolleru wetland. The decision was made by the Southern Zonal Bench of the NGT, citing concerns over environmental and hydrological impacts. The ruling emphasizes the need for legal compliance and mandatory environmental clearances before proceeding with such projects.
Key Takeaways
The Andhra Pradesh government planned six infrastructure projects under the 'A.P. Krishna - Kolleru Salinity Mitigation Projects Corporation Limited' with a total capital outlay of ₹2,952 crore.
The NGT's intervention came after noted environmental activist T. Patanjali Sastry challenged the government's order (G.O. Ms. No. 63, dated December 2, 2020), arguing that the projects lacked ecological and scientific assessments.
The tribunal ruled that all necessary clearances must be obtained from regulatory bodies, including the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), the A.P. Coastal Zone Management Authority (CZMA), the A.P. Pollution Control Board (PCB), and the National Board for Wild Life (NBWL).
The projects involve constructing three regulators-cum-roads across the tidal water channel, Upputeru, which is a crucial part of the Kolleru ecosystem.
The NGT emphasized that potential negative impacts on the wetland's hydrology, biodiversity, and eco-sensitive zone must be thoroughly evaluated before proceeding.
Do You Know?
Kolleru Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India, located in Andhra Pradesh, and serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds.
The lake falls under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation of wetlands, highlighting its global ecological importance.
Upputeru, the tidal water channel mentioned in the ruling, serves as a natural drainage system for the lake, playing a vital role in maintaining its water balance and biodiversity.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established in 2010 for expediting environmental cases and ensuring strict enforcement of environmental laws in India.
Static Points about Kolleru Wetland
Location: Situated between the Krishna and Godavari deltas in Andhra Pradesh, Kolleru is one of India’s largest freshwater lakes.
Ecological Significance : It acts as a natural flood-balancing reservoir and supports rich biodiversity, including fish, birds, and plants.
Ramsar Site : Designated as a Ramsar site in 2002, Kolleru is protected under international agreements for its wetland conservation value.
Threats : Over the years, the wetland has faced threats from encroachments, pollution, and unsustainable development projects.
Conclusion
The NGT's ruling highlights the critical need for sustainable development, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas like Kolleru wetland. While infrastructure projects are vital for economic progress, they must align with environmental protection laws to ensure long-term ecological balance. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of expert-driven, scientifically-backed conservation efforts in India’s wetlands.