The Supreme Court of India reprimanded an NGO for opposing a renewable energy project at the Jayakwadi Dam in Maharashtra. The bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotishwar Singh, stated that opposing every project hinders the nation's development.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court sternly rebuked a non-governmental organization (NGO) for opposing a renewable energy project at the Jayakwadi Dam in Maharashtra. The court questioned how the country could progress if every project faced opposition. The Jayakwadi Dam area is designated as a protected bird sanctuary and an ecologically sensitive zone.
The court also emphasized that renewable energy projects aim to promote environmentally sustainable development. Therefore, such opposition could impede development initiatives.
Questions Raised About NGO's Authenticity
The bench questioned the authenticity of the NGO, 'Kahar Samaj Panch Samiti,' asking who established it and provided funding. The court inquired, "Did a company that failed to secure a tender fund you?" The court termed the case "frivolous litigation," stating that such activities aimed solely to obstruct the project.
Objection to Solar Energy Project?
The NGO argued that the Jayakwadi Dam area is ecologically sensitive and that a 'floating solar power plant' could cause permanent damage to its biodiversity. The court responded, "You are not letting a single project work. If every project is opposed, how will the country progress?"
Supreme Court Upholds NGT's Decision
The Supreme Court stated that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) made no mistake in approving the project. The NGT took the correct step by seeking a response from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The ministry clarified that renewable energy and fuel production are encouraged activities.
Why the Project is Deemed Essential
THDC India Limited planned the 'floating solar power plant' at the Jayakwadi Dam. This project is located on the Godavari River in Paithan taluka, Sambhajinagar district, Maharashtra. The Maharashtra government and the Ministry of Power deemed the project crucial for the state's energy needs.
Why Consistent Obstruction Hinders National Development?
The Supreme Court clarified that consistently obstructing development work is inappropriate. The court emphasized that if every project faced opposition, the nation's progress would be hampered. The court stated that halting projects would not only exacerbate the energy crisis but also stall development activities under the guise of environmental protection.
Ultimately, the Supreme Court dismissed the NGO's petition, stating there was no reason to interfere with the NGT's decision. The court also stressed that litigation should not be misused, especially when projects serve the public interest.
