The environment ministry has said that captive coal blocks for ultra mega power projects located in forest areas demarcated as “inviolate” will not be considered for clearance, a move likely to upset industry, particularly power sector majors.

However, as a measure of relief for developers of the 4,000 mw projects, the ministry has said in its December 30 order that in the event the captive coal block is not located in an “inviolate” area, it will delink the clearance for the 4,000 mw projects from the coal blocks, according to people aware of the development.