MEV 016: Unit 06 - Governance of EIA

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 UNIT 6: GOVERNANCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA)

6.0 Introduction

Governance in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) refers to the systems, processes, institutions, and mechanisms that guide, monitor, and enforce EIA procedures. Effective governance ensures that EIA is implemented transparently, consistently, and in alignment with sustainable development goals. In recent years, governance of EIA in India has undergone significant reforms, especially with the emergence of digital platforms, public participation mandates, and updated regulations.

The quality of environmental governance determines how well environmental assessments are integrated into planning and decision-making processes. It also influences compliance, accountability, and the effectiveness of mitigation measures proposed during EIA.

6.1 Objectives

This unit seeks to:

  • Provide an overview of the governance systems involved in EIA.
  • Explain recent changes and technological advancements in EIA governance.
  • Highlight the differences between older and newer EIA notifications.
  • Describe the essential components of a well-structured EIA report.

6.2 Recent Advances in EIA Governance

In recent years, India has made several advances in the governance of EIA to make the process more transparent, efficient, and participatory. Some of the notable developments include:

a) Digitalization through PARIVESH Portal

  • PARIVESH (Pro-Active and Responsive facilitation by Interactive and Virtuous Environmental Single-window Hub) is an online platform developed by MoEFCC.
  • It facilitates submission, monitoring, and clearance of projects.
  • It has improved efficiency, reduced processing time, and increased transparency.

b) Decentralization of Clearance Mechanisms

  • State-level SEIAAs (State Environment Impact Assessment Authorities) have been empowered to handle Category B projects.
  • This decentralization ensures faster processing and localized decision-making.

c) Public Participation and Disclosure

  • Mandated public hearings allow affected communities to participate.
  • Draft EIA reports are now required to be disclosed publicly before hearings.

d) Institutional Reforms

  • Establishment of Expert Appraisal Committees (EACs) and Technical Advisory Committees to evaluate project proposals and recommend clearances.
  • Inclusion of domain experts for technical scrutiny.

e) Emphasis on Post-Clearance Monitoring

  • Projects are now monitored post-clearance for compliance with environmental safeguards.
  • Third-party audits and independent verifications are encouraged.

6.3 Difference Between the Old & New EIA Notification

The two key EIA notifications in India are 1994 and 2006, and a Draft EIA Notification, 2020, has also been proposed (though not finalized as of now). The governance reforms are best understood by comparing these versions:

Feature

EIA 1994

EIA 2006

Draft EIA 2020

Number of Projects

29 sectors

40+ sectors

Further expanded

Categorization

Not specified

Category A (MoEFCC) & B (SEIAA)

Further sub-categorization

Public Consultation

Not mandatory

Mandatory (for most projects)

Reduced time for feedback (from 30 to 20 days)

Scoping

Not included

Mandatory for ToR

Scope defined by authority

Validity of Clearance

Unspecified

Specific validity (e.g., 5-10 years)

Validity extended for some sectors

Transparency

Paper-based, less access

Online submissions via PARIVESH

Digitized, but criticized for limiting public access

Post-clearance Monitoring

Weak enforcement

Enhanced EMP and monitoring

Emphasizes self-reporting by project proponent

Controversies regarding Draft EIA 2020:

  • Dilution of public participation.
  • Post-facto approvals allowed.
  • Reduction in monitoring stringency.

Despite its intended reforms, the draft received significant opposition from environmentalists and civil society for weakening the regulatory framework.

6.4 Contents of an EIA Report

An EIA Report is a structured document that provides a comprehensive evaluation of a project’s potential environmental impacts and the proposed mitigation measures. A standard EIA report includes the following components:

1. Executive Summary

  • Brief overview of the project, key impacts, and mitigation measures.
  • Helps stakeholders quickly understand the essence of the report.

2. Introduction of the Project

  • Background and purpose of the project.
  • Project location, rationale, and necessity.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

  • List of applicable laws, acts, and standards.
  • Reference to international conventions (if any).

4. Description of the Project

  • Detailed project design, site layout, raw materials used, technology employed, and process flow diagrams.

5. Description of the Environment (Baseline Data)

  • Air, water, soil quality.
  • Flora and fauna.
  • Socio-economic data of the surrounding communities.
  • Climate and meteorological data.

6. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures

  • Identification and prediction of impacts on land, water, air, biodiversity, noise, and communities.
  • Measures to avoid, reduce, or compensate for adverse impacts.

7. Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

  • Action plan for implementing mitigation measures.
  • Monitoring schedules and responsibilities.
  • Emergency preparedness plan.

8. Risk Assessment and Disaster Management Plan

  • Assessment of risks due to industrial operations.
  • Safety measures and contingency plans.

9. Public Consultation

  • Summary of the public hearing process.
  • Major concerns raised and project proponent’s responses.

10. Summary and Conclusion

  • Final evaluation of environmental viability.
  • Statement of commitment from project developers.

11. References and Annexures

  • Maps, charts, lab reports, approvals, and supporting documents.

6.5 Summary

Governance of EIA is a critical element in ensuring that environmental considerations are not sidelined in the pursuit of economic development. In India, EIA governance has transitioned from a centralized and opaque system to a more structured, transparent, and participatory mechanism, especially with the adoption of digital tools and decentralization.

While the EIA Notification of 2006 brought considerable improvement, proposed reforms under Draft EIA 2020 have been met with both support and criticism. The content of EIA reports remains central to the governance mechanism, as it forms the basis for informed decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and long-term environmental stewardship.

Continued improvement in institutional capacity, public participation, and technological integration will be essential to strengthen EIA governance in India and align it with global best practices.

 

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