The proposed ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India Ltd (AMNS) project in Andhra Pradesh has reached a temporary pause, as the Expert Appraisal Committee under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has deferred a decision on environmental clearance. The committee stated that certain regulatory clarifications must be provided before the proposal can move forward.
A Major Industrial Proposal Under Review
AMNS has placed a request before the Ministry seeking environmental clearance for its large-scale project: an 8.2 million tons per annum steel plant proposed at Anakapalli district. The project is estimated at ₹1.50 lakh crore, placing it among the major industrial investments planned in the region. The committee discussed the proposal at its meeting held on October 30 but did not issue approval at this stage.
Reason for Deferral
According to the Minutes of the Meeting, the EAC has asked for clarity regarding the applicability of GSR 85E, a regulatory condition monitored by the Controller of Pollution (CP) Division. The committee noted that the project site previously held environmental clearance for another proposal, and clarification is needed to determine whether procedures under current regulations remain valid. Until the CP Division provides a clear response, the proposal remains pending for reconsideration.
Environmental Scrutiny and Industrial Development
Large industrial projects such as steel plants fall within Category A under environmental regulations, requiring extensive scrutiny before approval. Assessments usually include air quality impact, water requirement, pollution control measures, waste management systems, and long-term ecological implications. In this case, the committee has taken a cautious approach, ensuring that regulatory compliance is fully verified before proceeding.
Next Steps in the Process
The decision has not rejected the proposal, but deferred it until further documentation and clarification are submitted. Once the Controller of Pollution responds, the proposal will return to the EAC for review. Only after the committee is satisfied with regulatory compliance can the plant move toward the next stages of approval.
Industrial Growth and Environmental Responsibility
As one of the largest proposed steel plants in the country, the project carries significant economic implications, including employment opportunities, allied industries, and infrastructure development. However, the decision reflects the ongoing balance between industrial expansion and environmental safeguards. The delay indicates the committee’s insistence on due diligence before final permission is granted.
With the clarification request formally issued, further proceedings will depend on the response from the Controller of Pollution. Only after this step will the Expert Appraisal Committee reassess the proposal and take a final decision.