Nicobar Project Contractors Raise Major Concerns

Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation Limited (ANIIDCO) has initiated the contractor selection process for tree enumeration, felling, and logging.
This is part of the controversial Great Nicobar development project, which involves clearing76 sq km of forest.
ANIIDCO emphasised that the current step is for tree enumeration, not immediate tree felling.

The project aims to establish an international container transshipment terminal, a greenfield airport, and power plants.
It requires diverting75 sq km of forest land, with tree felling planned between 2025 and 2047.
Phase 1 involves clearing26 sq km of forest.

Environmentalists are concerned about the project’s impact on Great Nicobar’s rare species, rainforests, and tribal populations.
Activist Ashish Kothari has filed petitions in the National Green Tribunal and Kolkata High Court against the project.
Despite legal challenges, the Ministry of Environment granted Stage-I forest clearance in October 2022.
A controversial compensatory afforestation plan proposes offsetting forest loss in Haryana’s Aravallis, drawing criticism from Congress leader Jairam Ramesh and other environmentalists.

Investment: Rs 72,000 crore infrastructure upgrade led by
Project Area: Covers 16,610 hectares, utilising proximity to the Malacca Strait.
Key Developments:
- International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT)
- Greenfield international airport
- Two greenfield cities
- Coastal mass rapid transport system
- Free trade zone
Geography: Hilly, rainforest-covered island with 3,500 mm annual rainfall, home to endangered species like leatherback turtles and Nicobar megapodes.

Geo-Strategic Benefit: Enhances India’s role in the regional and global maritime economy by leveraging its proximity to the Malacca Strait.
Geo-Security Concerns: Strengthens India’s maritime security, especially against Chinese naval expansion in the Indian Ocean.
Military Infrastructure: Upgrades military infrastructure with new airfields, jetties, and surveillance systems.
Economic Boost: Establishment of an International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) enhances cargo transshipment and regional economic activity.
Job Creation: Development of infrastructure generates employment for local communities.
Tourism Development: Promotes tourism, aiding income generation in the region.
Social Benefits: Improves healthcare, education, and digital services like telemedicine and tele-education.

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