Why in News?
The Environment Impact Assessment for the ₹72,000-crore Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project downplays earthquake and tsunami risks, despite warnings by scientists. Experts urge site-specific studies, citing high seismic vulnerability and lack of detailed geological assessments in the region.
Description:
- ₹80,000 crore project on Great Nicobar Island (Andaman & Nicobar).
- Includes International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) at Galathea Bay, greenfield airport, township, tourism, gas power plant.
Strategic Importance:
- Near Malacca, Sunda, Lombok Straits.
- Enhances Indo-Pacific security.
- Reduces reliance on foreign ports (e.g. Singapore, Colombo).
- Part of Maritime India Vision 2030.
Environmental Concerns:
- ~130 sq km primary rainforest loss.
- Threat to leatherback sea turtle nesting in Galathea Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (denotified in 2021).
- Coral reef damage (CRZ 1A area).
- Poor compensatory afforestation (in Haryana/MP).
Legal/Social Concerns:
- Violates Shekhar Singh Commission (2002) recommendations.
- Limited tribal consultation (Shompen).
- Withholding of clearance details citing security.
- CRZ 1A = Ecologically sensitive coastal areas.
- Marine Turtle Action Plan 2021.
- Ten Degree Channel separates Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
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