Great Nicobar Project: Ecology Threatened, Funding Controversy Rises

Why in News ?

The Great Nicobar mega project faces scrutiny as environmental clearances benefit the same institutions receiving ₹2,220 crore for conservation. The denotification of Galathea Bay, a vital Leatherback turtle nesting site, raises concerns over conflict of interest and ecological impact.

Great Nicobar Project: Ecology Threatened, Funding Controversy Rises

Environmental Clearances and Financial Gains:

  • The Great Nicobar Island mega infrastructure project received environmental and forest clearance two years ago.
  • The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation Limited (ANIIDCO) allocated ₹9,162.22 crore for environmental management over 30 years.
  • ₹2,220 crore is earmarked for conservation projects by WII, ZSI, BSI, SACON, and ANFD.
  • The same institutions that approved environmental clearances will now receive significant funding, raising concerns about conflict of interest.

Impact on Galathea Bay and Marine Turtles

  • Galathea Bay is a critical nesting site for the Giant Leatherback turtle, an endangered species.
  • In 2021, the Indian government denotified the 44 sq. km sanctuary to build a ₹40,000 crore transshipment port.
  • The port design will reduce the bay’s opening by 90%, potentially blocking turtle access to nesting sites.
  • Despite no prior turtle research in the region, WII endorsed the denotification, stating it would not harm conservation efforts.

Funding Questions and Institutional Accountability

  • WII, which previously never studied sea turtles in the region, now receives ₹768 crore over 30 years for wildlife conservation.
  • This funding constitutes 50% of its latest Union budget allocation.
  • Critics argue this represents financial benefits linked to project approval, warranting scrutiny and accountability.

The Great Nicobar Project – Key Facts

Implementing Authority & Project Overview

  • Executed by: Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation Ltd (ANIIDCO).
  • Components:
  • International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT).
  • International airport and township development.
  • 450 MVA gas and solar-based power plant.
  • Site: Galathea Bay, southeastern Great Nicobar (uninhabited).

Significance of the Project

  • Economic Growth: ICTT boosts India’s maritime trade and regional economy.
  • Strategic Importance: Reduces reliance on foreign ports.
  • Sustainability: Renewable energy integration with gas and solar power.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

  • Location: 1,300 km southeast of Indian mainland.
  • Geography: 500+ islands, divided into Andaman (North, Middle, South) and Nicobar (Northern, Central, Southern).
  • Great Nicobar: Largest southernmost island, home to Indira Point.
  • Notable Features: Volcanic terrain, coral reefs, Saddle Peak (737 m) is the highest point.
  • Renamed Islands (2018):
  • Ross Island → Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep
  • Neil Island → Shaheed Dweep
  • Havelock Island → Swaraj Dweep