15 rail projects facing hurdles over forest clearances

NEW DELHI: More than a dozen railway projects, involving new lines, doubling and gauge conversion, are facing impediments due to the lack of environmental clearances, Rajya Sabha was told today.

There are total of 15 rail projects suffereing due to non-availability of forest clearances, Minister of State for Railways Rajen Gohain (Independent Charge) said in a written reply.

He said clearances from different land owning agencies, acquisition of land, shifting of service/utilities are part of project execution and these activities are bound to take time.

Gohain further said railways being one of the most environment-friendly means of transport does not require environment clearance for undertaking projects.

Proposal for diversion of forest land and tree cutting wherever needed, can only be prepared only after detailed survey, pegging of alignment and preparation of land schedule, he said.