Underground Works in Forest Land

The Union Ministry of Environment has recently clarified its stance on underground works in forest land. This clarification pertains to projects related to linear development, irrigation, and hydel energy. It asserts that such underground activities are akin to underground mining and are exempt from compensatory afforestation requirements. This decision was influenced by a request from the Rajasthan government regarding tunnel construction for water resource projects.

Definition of Underground Works

Underground works refer to construction activities that take place below the surface. This includes tunnel construction for railways, roads, and irrigation. The ministry classifies these activities as environmentally friendly. They do not disturb the surface ecosystem, including flora and fauna.

Environmental Impact Assessment

The ministry’s guidelines indicate that underground works do not disrupt the ecological balance of forest areas. Tunnels allow for the passage of water and infrastructure without damaging the surface environment. This assessment aligns with the ministry’s previous guidelines, which have been in place since April 2018.

Exemption from Compensatory Afforestation

Compensatory afforestation is a practice where developers must plant trees to compensate for deforestation caused by development projects. However, the recent clarification states that underground works do not require such compensatory measures. The rationale is that these projects do not cause surface disturbance.

Guidelines from the Forest Advisory Committee

The Forest Advisory Committee has supported the ministry’s position. In a meeting held on January 27, it was concluded that tunnel construction for irrigation and hydel projects should be treated similarly to underground mining. This stance is based on the belief that these projects are environmentally benign.

Implications for Future Development Projects

This clarification could have implications for future development projects in forest areas. It may expedite the approval process for projects involving underground construction. The decision aims to strike a balance between development needs and environmental preservation.

Stakeholder Reactions

Responses to these guidelines have been mixed. Proponents argue that it facilitates necessary infrastructure development. Critics express concerns about potential long-term environmental impacts. The ministry asserts that thorough assessments will ensure ecological safety.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the implications of the new guidelines on underground works in forest land.
2. Critically discuss the concept of compensatory afforestation and its importance in environmental policy.
3. Analyse the role of the Forest Advisory Committee in shaping environmental regulations.
4. Point out the potential environmental risks associated with increased underground construction activities.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the implications of the new guidelines on underground works in forest land.

1. Streamlined approval processes for underground projects may accelerate infrastructure development.
2. Potential for increased investment in linear and hydel projects due to reduced regulatory burdens.
3. Risk of overlooking surface ecosystem impacts despite claims of environmental friendliness.
4. Possibility of setting a precedent for future projects in sensitive ecological areas.
5. Enhanced focus on balancing developmental needs with environmental conservation efforts.

2. Critically discuss the concept of compensatory afforestation and its importance in environmental policy.

1. Compensatory afforestation aims to offset deforestation by planting trees elsewhere.
2. It serves as important mechanism to maintain forest cover and biodiversity.
3. Critics argue it may not effectively compensate for lost ecosystems and habitats.
4. Importance lies in promoting sustainable development and ecological balance.
5. Recent exemptions for underground works challenge the traditional understanding of compensatory measures.

3. Analyse the role of the Forest Advisory Committee in shaping environmental regulations.

1. The committee advises the government on forest conservation and development policies.
2. It evaluates proposals for projects impacting forest land, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.
3. Influences guidelines based on ecological assessments and stakeholder inputs.
4. Recent support for the new guidelines indicates its evolving role in balancing development and conservation.
5. Acts as a bridge between governmental policies and environmental advocacy groups.

4. Point out the potential environmental risks associated with increased underground construction activities.

1. Underground construction may lead to unforeseen geological disturbances affecting surface ecosystems.
2. Potential groundwater contamination from construction activities or inadequate management.
3. Long-term impacts on wildlife habitats that are not immediately visible.
4. Risk of cumulative impacts from multiple underground projects in sensitive areas.
5. Need for comprehensive monitoring and assessment to mitigate adverse effects on the environment.