Environment Ministry Allows ToR for Seven Water Aerodromes in Andhra Pradesh
Table of Contents
Source: The Hindu
Relevance: GS Paper 3 – Environment, Infrastructure Development, EIA, Transport
Why in News?
The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has permitted Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation Limited (APADCL) to prepare the Terms of Reference (ToR) for seven water aerodromes, enabling Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and further regulatory processing.
Background
- APADCL has identified 10 potential locations to develop water aerodromes in Andhra Pradesh.
- These aerodromes support seaplane operations and promote tourism and regional connectivity.
- Approval of ToR is the first step toward environmental clearance.
Key Highlights of the MoEF&CC Decision
1. Approval for Preparation of ToR
- Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) of MoEF&CC permits ToR preparation.
- ToR will guide the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study.
2. Subject to Conditions
- Must fulfil all environmental safeguards.
- Mandatory public hearings to be conducted early.
- Obtain NOCs from relevant authorities such as:
- Indian Navy (especially for Visakhapatnam site)
- Local bodies
- Water resource authorities
3. Total Locations Identified
• 10 proposed; ToR approved for 7 in the first phase.
What Are Water Aerodromes?
- Facilities that allow seaplanes to take off and land on water bodies like dams, lakes, or rivers.
- Need environmental assessment due to impact on aquatic ecosystems, fisheries, noise, and shoreline activity.
- Andaman and Nicobar to get country’s first-ever water aerodromes
List of Proposed Water Aerodromes in Andhra Pradesh
Locations Approved for ToR (7 Aerodromes)
- Prakasam Barrage – Vijayawada
- Srisailam Dam
- Lambasingi
- Rushikonda – Visakhapatnam
- Kakinada
- Jalaput (Sileru)
- Gandikota
Other Proposed Locations (Phase-2)
• Konaseema district
• Tirupati
• Araku Valley
Environmental Clearance Process
- ToR preparation
- Public hearing in project location(s)
- Environment Impact Assessment (EIA)
- Expert Appraisal
- Final approval from MoEF&CC
- AP Pollution Control Board clearance
- Project implementation
Significance of the Initiative
- Boosts tourism in scenic regions like Lambasingi, Araku, and Gandikota.
- Improves regional connectivity via seaplanes.
- Enhances economic activity and employment.
- Supports sustainable aviation if regulated properly.
- Reduces need for large land acquisition.
Challenges in Implementation
- Environmental disturbances to water bodies and ecosystems.
- Concerns of local fishing communities.
- Need for clear NOC from defence authorities in coastal areas.
- Safety management for seaplane operations.
- Ensuring minimal pollution and impact on biodiversity.
Way Forward
- Conduct scientific EIAs with community participation.
- Develop eco-sensitive guidelines for seaplane operations.
- Use clean fuel technologies to reduce water pollution.
- Engage with local communities to ensure benefits and compensation.
- Strengthen coordination between APADCL, MoEF&CC, Navy, and State agencies.
Conclusion
The MoEF&CC’s approval for ToR marks a significant step in developing water aerodromes in Andhra Pradesh. While the move promises tourism growth and improved connectivity, strict environmental scrutiny and community engagement will be essential for sustainable implementation.
CARE MCQ
Q. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is mandatory for which of the following types of projects?
(a) Mining projects
(b) Thermal power plants
(c) River valley projects
(d) All the above
Answer: (d)
Explanation
(a) Mining projects — Correct
• Mining causes large-scale land disturbance, habitat loss, groundwater depletion, and pollution.
• As per EIA Notification, 2006, mining (including coal, sand, and major minerals) requires prior environmental clearance.
(b) Thermal power plants — Correct
• Thermal plants emit pollutants (SO₂, NOx, particulates) and large carbon emissions.
• All coal-based and gas-based thermal power plants fall under the mandatory EIA category.
(c) River valley projects — Correct
• Dams, hydroelectric power stations, and irrigation barrages significantly impact river flow, sediment load, biodiversity, and displacement of people.
• These projects also require public hearings and EIA approval.
Therefore, all three categories require mandatory Environmental Impact Assessment.
