Assam: FAC defers clearance for controversial projects in reserved forests

Guwahati: The Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) has deferred granting ex-post facto forest clearance to two construction projects in the Hailakandi and Geleky reserved forests of Assam, citing violations of the Forest Conservation Act.

The committee has directed the regional office of the Union Environment Ministry to take action against responsible officers and halt ongoing construction.

The projects in question involve the construction of police battalions in Hailakandi's Innerline Reserved Forest and exploratory drilling by ONGC in Geleky Reserved Forest.

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The FAC has instructed the Assam government to exclude the diverted forest area for ONGC's drilling and submit a revised proposal.

They sought action against MK Yadava, the former principal chief conservator of forests, Assam, who allowed the illegal diversions.

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The FAC, in its meeting on August 27, expressed concern over the illegal construction activities in Hailakandi and Geleky reserved forests.

In Geleky Reserved Forest, the FAC has instructed the Assam government to exclude the diverted forest area for ONGC's exploratory drilling and submit a revised proposal.

The committee has also ordered the regional office of the environment ministry to initiate action against those involved in the violations.