The Union Minister for Enviroment and Forests Mr Jairam Ramesh has said the Centre will take action under the provisions of the Forest Conservation Act, if illegal diversion of forestland for non-forestry purposes is found to have taken place at Munnar in Idukki district.<br/>Addressing media persons in Kochi after a discussion to elicit public views on the proposed notification on Coastal Regulation Zone, Mr Jairam Ramesh said the priority is to protect the ecological wealth of Munnar. He said the moratorium on new ports in the country will be reviewed only after receiving the impact assessment report by the Institute of Ocean Management, Chennai which is expected in November.<br/>The Minister said no fresh projects will be given environmental clearance in critically polluted areas till state governments come up with credible action plans. He said the decision on Bt Brinjal will be announced on Wednesday without ignoring public sentiments on the issue. He, however said, nobody will be happy, whatever be the decision.<br/>
News On AIR | February 8, 2010 7:13 PM
Centre to take action on illegal diversion of forestland