20 February 2024 Environment Protection >> Environmental Law  

A recent court case addressed the appropriate location for public hearings concerning environmental impact assessments. The case involved two nearby limestone mine expansion projects slated for public hearings.

The Petitioner argued that separate hearings should be held in close proximity to each individual project site. However, the authorities conducted a single public hearing at a location considered convenient for both projects.

The court, after reviewing the relevant notification and arguments presented, concluded that the chosen location satisfied the legal requirement of being "in close proximity" to the projects. The distance between the hearing location and the project sites was deemed acceptable (4.99 kilometres for Thandiberi and 1.76 kilometres for Amli).

Furthermore, the court noted the Petitioner's presence at the hearing, indicating that participation wasn't hindered by the chosen location.

The court ultimately dismissed the petition, ruling that the public hearing fulfilled its purpose of allowing local residents to voice concerns despite being held at a common venue for both projects.