What is the primary purpose of an EIA study?

• A. To conduct baseline studies, identify impacts, and evaluate potential environmental effects.
• B. To expedite construction without regulatory oversight.
• C. To assess financial viability and market demand.
• D. To finalize project design without mitigation.

Answer: (A)

The main aim of an EIA study is to examine how a proposed project could affect the environment before a final decision is made. This involves collecting baseline information about the current environment, identifying the potential impacts the project could have on air, water, soil, biodiversity, noise, and people, and evaluating how significant those effects might be. The goal is to inform mitigation measures and support decision-making so development proceeds with awareness of environmental consequences and steps to avoid, reduce, or compensate for harm. The other options describe rushing construction without oversight, focusing on financial viability, or finalizing design without mitigation, which are outside the purpose of an EIA.