New Delhi (CNN Business) One of India's richest men just got the green light to start building a new coal mine in Australia despite fierce opposition from climate change campaigners.

The Adani Group, owned by billionaire Gautam Adani, said in a statement it would begin construction of the Carmichael mine in Queensland after receiving the state's approval for a groundwater management plan on Thursday.

The company had earlier received Australian government approval for its plan to protect rare birds that live in the area.

"Moving forward, our priority is ensuring the safety of everyone who works on the project and that all construction activity meets the strict environmental requirements we have agreed to meet," said Lucas Dow, the CEO of Adani's mining division.

While construction of the mine can now begin, Adani will have to conduct further studies and receive additional approvals in the coming months before it can start extracting coal, the Queensland government said.

Gautam Adani is one of India's wealthiest people.