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Topic : Great Nicobar Project
GS-3 Mains : Economy
Revision Notes
The Great Nicobar Project, a proposed ₹72,000 crore infrastructure development initiative, has sparked controversy due to potential environmental and social concerns.
Project Details:
- Aims to develop an international trade hub on Great Nicobar Island.
- Key components include:
- International Container Transhipment Terminal (ICTT)
- Greenfield international airport
- Township development
- Power plant (gas and solar based)
Strategic Significance:
- The island’s location near the Malacca Strait offers strategic advantages:
- Participation in regional and global maritime trade.
- Countering China’s “String of Pearls” strategy.
- Securing Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf under UNCLOS.
Environmental Concerns:
- Ecological threats: Project activities could devastate the island’s unique biodiversity, harming endemic and endangered species due to habitat loss.
- Shompen tribe’s rights: Potential violation of the Shompen, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), by disrupting their traditional way of life.
- Inadequate consultation: Allegations that the local administration did not properly consult the Tribal Council, as legally mandated.
- Marine ecosystem impact: Construction and related activities threaten coral reefs and the overall marine ecosystem.
- Seismic zone vulnerability: The project site is located in an earthquake-prone area, raising concerns about infrastructure stability.
Current Status:
- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) upheld the project’s environmental and forest clearances in April 2023.
- However, the NGT ordered the formation of a high-power committee to review the clearances.
The Way Forward:
The Great Nicobar Project requires careful consideration of both development goals and environmental protection. Striking a balance between economic progress and ecological sustainability is crucial. Ensuring the rights and well-being of the Shompen tribe and transparent consultation processes are also essential for responsible project development.
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