Northern Territory clears way for fracking to begin in Beetaloo Basin

Environmental groups and scientists say move will have an unacceptable impact on the climate and have called for ban

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The Northern Territory government says it is satisfied the recommendations of an independent inquiry into fracking have been met, clearing the way for gas production and the expansion of wells across the Beetaloo basin.

The NT chief minister, Natasha Fyles, announced Wednesday morning her government was giving a green light for gas production in the region between Katherine and Tennant Creek, a move environment organisations warn and scientists have warned will have an unacceptable impact on the climate.