Print:
Adjust font size: - +

March 06, 2006

Russian Agency Backs Pipeline Said To Threaten Lake Baikal

Russia's Lake Baikal (file photo) (AFP)

March 6, 2006 -- Russia's state environmental agency has approved a controversial pipeline that will take oil to Asian markets.

Environmental groups have criticized the project, saying the pipeline could severely damage Lake Baikal, the world's deepest lake and a UNESCO heritage site.


The Eastern Siberia-Pacific Ocean pipeline will cost $11 billion and will pump oil to China and the Pacific Coast.


The Rostekhnadzor environmental-protection agency said today its head, Konstantin Pulikovsky, had signed a positive assessment of the project. An expert commission gathered by Rostekhnadzor had initially rejected the plan.


President Vladimir Putin has said the Eastern Siberia-Pacific Ocean pipeline is a priority project for Russia's social and economic development.


(Reuters, ITAR-TASS)


Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty © 2009 RFE/RL, Inc. All Rights Reserved.