Synopsis: POSCO has overcome the first hurdle in getting the forest diversion proposal (FDP) approved from the central government for its proposed 12-million tonne mega steel project. The company has obtained the stage-I forest clearance from the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). Subject to fulfilment of the stage-I conditions in terms of mitigation measures, steps will be taken for the next stage of approval, said official sources.A four-member committee under the chairmanship of Mr. S K Patnaik will examine the steps to be taken as mitigation measures to protect the area from cyclone and other natural calamities as a large number of trees will be cut in the coastal region.The state's Chief Secretary Mr. Ajit Kumar Tripathy reviewed the progress G W Sung, director, Posco India , said the state government has assured the company to expedite the processes associated with the approval of the FDP by the Union government. Similarly, it assured to convene the meeting of the Rehabilitation and Periphery Development Advisory Committee within 15 days to expedite the settlement of rehabilitation issues. Attending the review meeting on 3rd Nov.,Mr Sung said POSCO will not alter its original plan of investment in Orissa despite of the global financial crisis.