Centre Eases Environmental Clearance Rules Amid Adani Cement Plant Protests in Kalyan

New Delhi: The central government has announced a significant policy change, stating that cement grinding units without their own captive plants will no longer require prior environmental clearance. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has issued a draft notification regarding the amendment.

The move comes amid widespread public protests against the Adani Group’s planned cement production facility in Kalyan, Mumbai. Under the previous rules, such projects required public consultation and a detailed environmental impact assessment report. With the new amendment, these requirements will no longer be applicable. The draft notification allows 60 days for suggestions and objections to be submitted.

Adani Group’s subsidiary, Ambuja Cement, plans to invest 1,400 crore rupees to set up six such grinding units. Local residents have expressed serious concerns about the environmental and health impact, particularly in densely populated Kalyan. Emissions of pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide are key issues of concern. Villagers from Mohonayi and ten nearby villages have been actively protesting the project, including through petitions and signature campaigns.

The policy shift has raised fresh debates about balancing industrial development with public health and environmental protection.