ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF FOUR LANING OF NAGPUR-KATOL SECTION OF NH-353J: A CRITICAL STUDY

Abstract- This study presents a critical environmental impact assessment (EIA) of the four-laning of theNagpur-Katol section of National Highway NH-353J. The project is significant for regional connectivity andeconomic development; however, it also poses potential environmental threats including land degradation, lossof biodiversity, air and noise pollution, and social displacement. The study follows the guidelines outlined in theEIA Notification 2006 by MoEF&CC and the MoRTH Environmental Guidelines. Baseline environmental datahas been collected and analyzed for air, water, noise, soil, and biological environment. Environmental impactprediction has been done using qualitative and quantitative methods, and mitigation measures have beenproposed to minimize adverse impacts. The study concludes with the preparation of an EnvironmentalManagement Plan (EMP) and a monitoring framework to ensure sustainable construction and operation phases.