In India, environmental clearance (EC) is essential for ensuring that projects do not harm the environment. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process plays a significant role in evaluating the potential adverse effects of a proposed project. The Government of India, through the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), has made it easier for project proponents to apply for EC through an online platform called the Parivesh Portal. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to applying for environmental clearance online, along with the requirements and benefits of this system.

What is Environmental Clearance?

Environmental clearance is a regulatory requirement under India’s environmental laws that ensures a project does not pose harm to the environment. It applies to various sectors like mining, infrastructure, power, and manufacturing. The clearance is based on an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report that assesses the potential environmental effects of the project.

There are two main types of Environmental Clearances:

1. Prior Environmental Clearance (EC): Needed before the commencement of the project.
2. Post-EC Compliance: Ensures that the project is being executed in line with the granted clearance.

Why is Environmental Clearance Important?

EC ensures sustainable development by mitigating potential damage to the environment. The process ensures that air quality, water bodies, biodiversity, and surrounding ecosystems are not negatively affected by industrial and infrastructure projects. It also ensures compliance with national and state regulations, which protects public health and well-being.

How to Apply for Environmental Clearance Online in India

The Parivesh Portal (www.parivesh.nic.in) facilitates the online application process for environmental clearance. The portal was launched to streamline and digitize the entire process, making it more transparent and efficient. Here’s a detailed guide to applying for EC:

1. Registration on the Parivesh Portal

The first step in the application process is to register on the Parivesh Portal. Users (project proponents, consultants, etc.) need to create an account by providing their details such as name, contact information, project type, and location.

• Visit the Parivesh Portal (www.parivesh.nic.in) and click on “Registration.”
• Enter your personal or organizational details, followed by a valid email ID for communication.
• After completing the registration, an activation link will be sent to the registered email, which you need to confirm.

2. Filling the Application Form

Once registered and logged in, you will be able to submit the application for EC. The portal categorizes projects into two major categories:

• Category A: Projects that require an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report due to their large scale or potential significant environmental impact.
• Category B: Projects that require a simplified process or have lesser environmental impacts, but may still require clearance.

Fill in the required project details such as:

• Project description: Type of project, location, and the land area involved.
• Sector: Industry, mining, infrastructure, power, etc.
• Type of application: New project, expansion, modernization, or operational clearance.

3. Upload Documents

The portal requires project proponents to upload several documents related to the project, including:

• Project Report: A detailed project proposal with plans, specifications, and intended operations.
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report: For Category A projects, a comprehensive EIA report prepared by an accredited consultant must be submitted.
• Risk Assessment and Management Plan: For projects with high environmental risks.
• Compliance Report: For expansion or operational clearances, compliance with previous clearances should be submitted.

Ensure that all documents are in the specified format (PDF, JPEG) and within the size limit.

4. Payment of Application Fees

The online portal also facilitates fee payment through various modes, including online banking, debit/credit cards, and UPI. The fees depend on the project category, size, and the scale of impact. After completing the payment, the transaction receipt is generated, which you can use as a proof of payment.

5. Submit the Application

Once all details are filled out, documents uploaded, and the fees paid, you can submit the application. The Parivesh Portal allows you to track the progress of your application after submission.

6. Review and Approval

After submission, the application undergoes a review by the relevant Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (EIAA). The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change or the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) will assess whether the project meets the required environmental standards.

In some cases, site visits and public consultations may be conducted as part of the review process. If all requirements are met, the environmental clearance is granted.

Requirements for Environmental Clearance

To apply for environmental clearance, the following requirements must be met:

1. Project Category: The project must fall within the stipulated sectors that require environmental clearance as per the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification.
2. EIA Report: For large projects (Category A), an EIA report prepared by a certified consultant is mandatory.
3. Public Consultation: For some projects, a public consultation process is required where local communities and stakeholders can voice concerns.
4. Compliance with Guidelines: The project must meet the guidelines laid down by the MoEFCC.

Benefits of Applying for Environmental Clearance Online

1. Transparency: The online system ensures transparency by providing real-time tracking of the application status.
2. Faster Processing: Digitization helps in quicker application processing and reduces the chances of delays due to manual errors.
3. Efficiency: The portal streamlines the entire process, eliminating paperwork and physical submission of forms.
4. Accessibility: The Parivesh portal is accessible to all, making it easier for project proponents from different regions to apply for EC without needing to visit offices in person.
5. Cost-Effective: With the elimination of physical visits and paperwork, the process becomes more cost-effective for project developers.
6. Environmental Protection: By digitizing the process, the government ensures that more projects comply with environmental regulations, promoting sustainable development.

Conclusion

The Parivesh Portal is a significant step towards improving the environmental clearance process in India. By making the application process simpler, faster, and more transparent, it enhances environmental governance and helps ensure that development projects align with sustainable practices. Whether you are a developer or a consultant, understanding the online EC process will help you navigate the regulatory requirements with ease. The system not only benefits the environment but also promotes responsible development in India.