SC Curbs Green Nod for Mega-Projects; UP Temple Ordinance Stands
The Supreme Court on August 5, 2025, delivered a significant verdict impacting large-scale construction projects across India. Partially upholding a notification mandating environmental clearance for projects exceeding 20,000 square meters, the court’s decision has implications for numerous ventures, including educational institutions.
The ruling reinforces the authority of state pollution control boards to levy penalties for environmental violations. This strengthens the regulatory framework for environmental protection and holds developers accountable for their actions.
The court also addressed the Uttar Pradesh government’s controversial temple ordinance, offering its support to the state’s position. The details of this endorsement remain to be fully clarified.
This judgement carries significant weight for developers, educational institutions, and environmental activists alike. The clarity on environmental clearances and the affirmation of pollution control board powers will undoubtedly shape future infrastructure development and environmental management across the nation. The long-term impact on religious institutions in Uttar Pradesh, however, remains a point of ongoing discussion and scrutiny.
