The National Green Tribunal in its hearing on the issue of 3 x 660 MW expansion of coal-based thermal power plant at Koradi, Nagpur District, Maharashtra in its final order on Tuesday directed the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) to look into the matter as to long-term impacts caused by nuclear radiation from the thermal power projects. The bench comprising Justice Ramlu and Dr Devendra Agrawal have directed for instituting a scientific long-term study involving Bhabha Atomic Research Agency or any such other recognised scientific institution dealing with nuclear radiation with reference to the coal ash generated by thermal power projects located in the area on human habitation and environment and ecology. The study shall also take into consideration the health profile of the residents within the area in which the pollutants are expected to spread from the thermal power project. As per the directives of NGT, MoEF shall direct the proponent to synchronize the commissioning of the project with that of the Sewage Wastewater Treatment plant, treated water which is proposed to be used for the operation of the project. Until, then, no Consent to Operate shall be issued by the Maharashtra State Pollution Control Board and the Board shall monitor the mitigating measures suggested in the Environmental Clearance. The MoEF shall get the national standards prescribed, if not already available from the Department of Atomic Energy, Govt of India within a period of one year from the date of receipt of this order, as to permissible levels of nuclear radiation in residential, industrial and ecologically sensitive areas of the country. If any of these directions are not carried out, the appellant is at liberty to take appropriate steps as required under the law. The appeal had been filed by Krishi Vigyan Arogya Sanstha in Maharashtra and six others against MoEF, Maharashtra State Pollution Control Board and Maharashtra State Power Generation Co Ltd .