The Environmental Clearance process in India is designed to assess potential environmental impacts of specified projects before they proceed. The process is governed by the applicable legal framework, including the EIA Notification, 2006 and its amendments. Not every proposal follows an identical sequence; the category and rules applicable to the project determine the route.
Step 1: Identify the applicable category
Start by describing the proposed activity, scale, capacity, location and whether it is a new project or a change to an existing project. Compare these details with the Schedule and conditions in the current EIA Notification. This determines whether EC is required and which authority or procedure may apply.
Step 2: Prepare the application information
Gather the project description, site details, maps, layout, land information and technical details requested in the applicable forms. The online application route and form depend on the project category and stage.
Step 3: Screening and scoping, where applicable
Screening helps determine the appropriate treatment of relevant Category B proposals under the applicable framework. Scoping establishes the Terms of Reference for studies where that stage is required. The authority’s current directions should be followed.
Step 4: Environmental studies
Where required, the project proponent prepares an EIA report and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) in line with the approved Terms of Reference and relevant guidance. The studies should be specific to the project and accurately describe impacts, mitigation measures and monitoring arrangements.
Step 5: Public consultation, where applicable
Public consultation forms part of the process for specified categories, subject to the applicable provisions and exceptions. The exact requirements should be checked for the particular project; it is not correct to assume that every proposal has an identical public consultation requirement.
Step 6: Appraisal and decision
The relevant appraisal committee reviews the proposal and makes its recommendation under the applicable procedure. The competent regulatory authority then makes the decision. Approval may include conditions that the project proponent must implement and monitor.
Step 7: Compliance after approval
Environmental Clearance is not the end of environmental management. The project team should maintain records, implement applicable conditions, monitor performance and submit compliance information when required. Project changes should be reviewed to determine whether further approval or amendment is necessary.
How to track an application
The PARIVESH portal supports online submission and tracking of relevant clearance proposals. Refer to the official EC rules and notifications for the current requirements.
Need assistance with your proposal?
Eco Approval Consultants can help organise project information and clarify the approval questions that need to be checked for your project. Visit environmentalclearances.in/ to contact the team.
Disclaimer: Timelines, forms and stages depend on the applicable rules and completeness of the proposal. This article is informational and is not a guarantee of approval or processing time.