The construction work of a power plant in Chattisgarh by Jindal Power Limited (JPL) has been put on hold after the environment ministry found out that the work on the plant started without its mandatory environment clearance. 

In a letter, a copy of which is with Governance Now, written by a scientist in the ministry, it is stated that JPL started construction of the power plant without 'obtaining prior environmental clearance.'

JPL was supposed to prepare an environment impact assessment report and get public consultation on the report done. Only then the ministry would have considered the proposal for giving clearance.

But the ministry received a complaint that JPL has started work without clearance. They then constituted a team to inspect the site. The team inspected the site on 22 May 2010 and found that JPL was constructing a plant where a power plant was already functioning.

The ministry has withdrawn in-principal approval and directed state government to take legal action under EP Act 1986. It means Jindal has to apply afresh for this project and new approval will be prescribed by ministry. Public hearing with bundle of illegalities held on 8th May 2010 for this project becomes null with ministry order.

A copy of the letter is attached.