Hindu Editorial Analysis : 17-October-2023
The Himalayan region, characterized by its breathtaking landscapes and vital ecosystem services, faces a pressing need for tailored Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) standards. EIA, a process delineated by the United Nations Environment Programme, serves as a crucial tool to foresee and mitigate the environmental, social, and economic impacts of projects. Despite its significance, the current “one size fits all” approach in India fails to address the unique challenges posed by the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR).
Understanding Environment Impact Assessment (EIA)
- Features of EIA
- Compares project alternatives and analyzes environmental repercussions.
- Determines appropriate mitigation strategies based on comprehensive data.
- EIA in India
- Introduced in 1994, mandatory for specific projects under EPA.
- EIA 2006 notification replaced the initial regulations.
- Draft EIA 2020 faced criticism for industry-centric focus.
The Urgent Need for Specialized EIA in the IHR
- Challenges Faced
- “One size fits all” approach: Ignores IHR’s ecological importance.
- Unsuitability of graded approach: Current system doesn’t consider IHR’s fragility.
- Unplanned Urbanisation: Blocks natural water flow, causing landslides.
- Construction of Dams: Threatens arable lands, biodiversity, and fisheries.
- Ecology under stress: Deforestation, soil erosion, and land pressure.
- Vulnerability to extreme conditions: Increased risk due to climate change.
Addressing Challenges through Specialized EIA Standards
- Incorporating IHR Needs in EIA Stages
- Screening, Scoping, Consultation, Appraisal: Include region-specific considerations.
- Revisiting Criteria for Environmental Clearance
- Commensurate with ecological needs: Tailor standards for mountainous regions.
- Specific clauses for IHR: Mandate unique conditions for projects in high-altitude areas.
- Harnessing EIA as a Regulatory Tool
- Diligent Use of EIA: Empower EIA as a potent tool for environmental governance.
- Fostering Sustainable Development: EIA can drive the vision of sustainable development in the IHR.
Why In News
The fragile Himalayan region urgently requires tailored environmental standards in the form of Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) to safeguard its unique ecosystems and biodiversity. Implementing these specialized standards is crucial not only for the preservation of this delicate environment but also for ensuring sustainable development and the well-being of local communities.
MCQs about Specialized EIA for the Indian Himalayan Region
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What is the primary purpose of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in the context of the Himalayan region?
A) To speed up industrial projects
B) To identify and mitigate environmental, social, and economic impacts of projects
C) To enforce strict regulations without flexibility
D) To promote urbanization in the region
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Why is the “one size fits all” approach inadequate for the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR)?
A) It is cost-prohibitive
B) The IHR has unique ecological characteristics and vulnerabilities
C) It is too complicated to implement
D) There is a lack of awareness about the IHR
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What role does unplanned urbanization play in the environmental challenges faced by the Himalayan region?
A) It promotes biodiversity
B) It blocks natural water flow, leading to frequent landslides
C) It reduces pollution
D) It conserves water resources
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How can Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) be harnessed as a regulatory tool in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR)?
A) By ignoring region-specific factors
B) By empowering it with region-specific considerations
C) By reducing the importance of public consultation
D) By limiting its scope to a few projects
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