NEW DELHI: To address the security and strategic interests of the nation, the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has simplified the procedure of forest clearances for defence and strategic border road projects falling within 100 km aerial distance from the LAC (Line of Actual Control) with China. Launching a web portal for online submission and monitoring of forest clearance proposals, Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday said the MoEF has accorded general approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, for diversion of forest land required for projects of strategic importance.
The relaxed norms will be beneficial for the construction and widening of two lane roads by the Border Road Organisation (BRO) and other agencies that the Ministry of Defence entrusts with the job, in the area falling within 100 km aerial distance from the LAC.
General approval for diversion of forest land required for setting up of Army stations, ammunition depots, training centres, schools, hospitals and residential quarters within 100 km aerial distance from the LAC was under active consideration of the ministry.