NGT Prolongs Deadline for Environment Ministry’s Response on Puri Airport Appeal
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has set a deadline of February 6, 2026, for the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change to respond to a petition challenging the Shree Jagannath International Airport project in Puri. Opponents of the project argue that its construction threatens the fragile coastal ecosystem. The case has sparked significant debate over environmental concerns and the potential impact on local communities.
Background of the Petition
The petition against the Shree Jagannath International Airport was brought forth by ten residents, led by Surendra Tapasu. They argue that the proposed airport is situated in an ecologically sensitive and cyclone-prone coastal area, which violates principles of sustainable development. The matter was presented to the NGT’s eastern zone in Kolkata, where Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana and Dr. Prashant Gargava presided over the hearing on November 27. The petitioners are seeking to highlight the environmental risks associated with the airport’s construction, which they believe could have lasting effects on the local ecosystem.
During the proceedings, the NGT issued notices to both the central and Odisha state governments, allowing them time to respond. The Ministry of Environment requested additional time to submit its affidavit, which the tribunal granted. The petitioners’ counsel, advocate Sankar Prasad Pani, contended that construction activities were still ongoing at the site, despite claims from the state government that no work was currently taking place.
Contradictory Claims and Evidence Submission
The hearing revealed conflicting statements regarding the status of construction at the proposed airport site. While the state government asserted that all previous construction efforts had ceased, the petitioners maintained that activities were still being conducted. To address these discrepancies, the NGT instructed the petitioners to provide photographic evidence, including latitude and longitude details, to support their claims of ongoing work at the site. The tribunal is set to reconvene on February 6, 2026, to review the submitted evidence and further discuss the case.
The NGT’s decision to allow the petitioners to present additional evidence underscores the tribunal’s commitment to thoroughly examining the environmental implications of the airport project. This process aims to ensure that all concerns are addressed before any further steps are taken in the development of the airport.
State Government’s Defense of the Project
In a counter-affidavit submitted by Debadutta Suranita Jena, the secretary of the commerce and transport department, the state government defended the Shree Jagannath International Airport project. The affidavit described the airport as a priority initiative designed to alleviate congestion at Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport, which faces limitations on expansion due to space and technical constraints. The state government argued that the new airport would enhance tourism and stimulate economic growth in the Puri region.
The affidavit also referenced a site inspection report from May 10, 2023, conducted by the divisional forest officer for wildlife in Puri. This report indicated that no violations of the Forest Conservation Act had been identified. Furthermore, a communication dated February 22, 2024, from the principal chief conservator of forests noted that the proposed airport site is located 9.95 kilometers away from the eco-sensitive zone of the Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary, with minimal impact on local wildlife and bird movement.
Future Implications and Next Steps
As the NGT prepares for its next hearing, the outcome of this case could have significant implications for the future of the Shree Jagannath International Airport project. The tribunal’s decision will not only affect the proposed airport’s development but also set a precedent for how similar projects are evaluated in ecologically sensitive areas across India.
The ongoing debate highlights the tension between development and environmental conservation, a critical issue in many regions facing similar challenges. The NGT’s careful consideration of the evidence presented by both sides will be crucial in determining the project’s fate and ensuring that environmental concerns are adequately addressed. As the deadline approaches, stakeholders from various sectors will be closely monitoring the developments surrounding this high-profile case.
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