To fast-track infrastructure and industrial development, the Odisha government convened a high-level coordination meeting today to address bottlenecks in the forest clearance process.
The session, chaired by Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of Forest, Environment & Climate Change, Shri Satyabrata Sahu, brought together senior officials from multiple departments and project proponents.
The meeting focused on improving inter-departmental coordination, early identification of hurdles, and timely compliance with statutory norms. ACS Sahu emphasized that while development is essential, conservation standards will not be compromised. He directed Regional Chief Conservators of Forests (RCCFs), Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs), and field-level officers to proactively flag issues and adopt technology-driven solutions like GIS mapping and digital proposal tracking.
A key resolution was to hold monthly review meetings under ACS Sahu’s leadership to monitor pending projects under PMG Pragati. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja will also join future sessions to ensure cross-departmental accountability.
The status of seven exploratory drilling projects by the Geological Survey of India was reviewed, including proposals in Similipal, Keonjhar, and Sukinda Valley. Two major railway projects by South Eastern Railway—one in Jharsuguda and another in Barpali—were also discussed. Additionally, forest clearance for the Capital Region Ring Road and Neyveli Lignite Corporation’s Ashdyke project was prioritized.
Officials from Rourkela, Angul, Sambalpur, and other forest divisions joined virtually to share updates and coordinate efforts. The government aims to ensure faster, transparent clearances while protecting ecological integrity and community interests.
