Environmental Clearance For Great Nicobar Project

On 16th February 2026, a six-member special bench of the National Green Tribunal ruled that there were no valid grounds to interfere with the environmental clearance granted to the ₹81,000-crore Great Nicobar mega infrastructure project, citing adequate safeguards and its strategic importance.

Key Points

NGT Decision: The special bench held that the environmental clearance contained adequate safeguards and adopted a balanced approach considering ecological and strategic concerns.
Strategic Importance Recognised: The Tribunal acknowledged the national and strategic significance of the project while examining compliance with environmental norms.
Project Scope: The mega project spans 166 sq km and involves diversion of about 130 sq km of forest land, including felling of nearly one million trees for a transshipment port, integrated township, airport and power plant.
ICRZ Compliance: The NGT relied on the findings of a High-Powered Committee and concluded that no part of the project fell within prohibited Island Coastal Regulation Zone areas.