Maharashtra govt forms Climate Action Cell with focus on prevention, mitigation related to climate change

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. File Pic

The Maharashtra government has approved the formation of a State Climate Action Cell (SCAC) that will focus on prevention, adaptation and mitigation related to climate change, reported news agency PTI.

The cell, which will function under the Department of Environment and Climate Change, will have five members with a director as its head, said a government order (GR) issued on Wednesday, reported PTI.

The other members will be experts on climate finance, mitigation, adaptation and project consultants or officers, it said.

The cell will provide guidance on implementation of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NPACC) in the state, the order said, reported PTI.

The cell will also coordinate between the Union government, local governing bodies, NGOs, institutions working in the field of environment research and development, international financial institutions and other stakeholders, it added.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the 'Amrit Bharat Station Scheme' launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday will rejuvenate railway stations in the country by providing modern amenities.

As part of the scheme, 508 railway stations will be redeveloped into world class ones, including 44 in Maharashtra. Of these, Kanjurmarg, Parel and Vikhroli are on Mumbai's Central Railway network.

In a statement, Shinde said the railway budget has made provision of Rs 13,539 crore for various projects, including modernisation of 123 railway stations in Maharashtra.

The CM described Sunday as a historic day since the launch of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme will ensure passengers get quality services and amenities.

The redevelopment will involve making stations as 'city centres" with amenities like roof plaza, shopping zone, food court, segregated entry and exits, multi level parking, escalators etc.

(With inputs from PTI)