Centre fines biz group close to Narendra Modi for environmental damage

New Delhi, Sept 3: The Union environment ministry has imposed a fine of Rs 200 crore on the Gujarat-based Adani Group, known to be close to state Chief Minister Narendra Modi, for allegedly damaging mangroves and creeks while setting up a port project.

A panel formed by the ministry accused the business group of violating several environmental rules in the Mundra port and a special trade zone in the Kutch district. Officials said the project could even face a suspension if the continuing probe established further details about the violation of environment clearance norms.

The Adani Group, which has been fined, is known to be close to Narendra Modi

The committee, led by environmentalist Sunita Narin, reportedly found wanton destruction of mangroves over 75 hectares of conservation zone. The Adani Group was also accused of not taking precautionary measures to guard the creek blocking due to the construction activities. The committee reportedly took help of remote sensing technology to examine the damage caused over a decade. The local fishing community has been adversely hit by the destruction, reports said.

The money received from the fund will be used restoring the environment in the area.

OneIndia News