Environmental Groups Have Exaggerated Concerns Over Adani Project: Hunt

Though these port facilities have received Federal approval, they are being delayed by legal challenges brought by local community groups, with two cases currently in the courts, the foundation said in a statement.

It added,In June, the World Heritage Committee said the Carmichael/Abbot point project could threaten the World Heritage status of the world-renowned and much-loved Great Barrier Reef. According to Greenpeace Australia, Hunt gave the go-ahead to port expansions despite warnings from the Great Barrier Reef Marine park Authority and UNESCO that the development would place the reef in danger.

However, the Hunt said the approval to Adani's Carmichael Coal and Rail Project in Galilee Basin came along with36 strict conditions focused on conserving groundwater. On concerns that Adani will take too much water out of the local water supply, Hunt said Adani would return a minimum 730 mega litres of water to the Basin every year for 5 years.

He said final water modelling will be done during the course of the project. It can't proceed without that. But all up, what we are seeking to do is to ensure there is minimal if any impact and that is where the 730 million litres comes in, he said adding it is about making sure that we are making good on the overall issues.

READ MORE: Misuse of Pharmaceutical Drugs Rising In India: UN Official