3rd March 2025 (12 Topics)
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A battle between Fishing and Mining
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Context
The coastal communities of Kerala are protesting against the Centre’s plans for offshore mining, fearing irreversible damage to marine ecosystems and their traditional livelihoods. The 2023 amendment to the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, allows private sector participation in offshore mining, with tenders invited for 13 offshore blocks, including three near Kollam Parappu, a rich fishing zone and biodiversity hotspot.
Ecological and Environmental Concerns
- Destruction of Marine Habitats: Mining near Kollam Parappu, a highly productive fishing ground, threatens coral ecosystems, fish stocks, and overall marine biodiversity.
- Increased Water Turbidity: Studies indicate that sediment plumes from mining will raise turbidity, reduce water quality, disrupt food webs, and degrade spawning grounds.
- Unknown Long-term Impact: Given the lack of well-defined boundaries in marine ecosystems, mining may trigger unpredictable environmental consequences beyond the immediate extraction site.
Livelihood and Socio-Economic Challenges
- Threat to Fishermen’s Livelihoods: Mining will force traditional and mechanised fishers to compete for fewer resources, intensifying conflicts and reducing their earnings.
- Increased Fishing Pressure: The loss of fishing grounds will push vessels into coastal waters, escalating disputes between fishers from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
- Impact on Food Security: A decline in fish production could set off a chain reaction, affecting nutrition, employment, and coastal economies.
Regulatory Gaps and Policy Issues
- Lack of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA): No comprehensive environmental studies have been conducted to evaluate the long-term consequences of offshore mining.
- Flaws in Offshore Mining Policy: While India has identified vast offshore mineral reserves, the policy fails to address sustainability concerns, ecological sensitivity, and economic risks.
- Need for Sustainable Alternatives: Instead of disruptive offshore mining, investment in blue economy initiatives and sustainable marine resource management should be prioritised.
Practice Question
Q: Critically examine the impact of offshore mining on marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of coastal communities. Suggest measures to balance economic development with ecological sustainability.
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