MK Stalin opposes offshore mining in Gulf of Mannar

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has voiced strong opposition to a proposed offshore petroleum and natural gas mining project in the ecologically sensitive Gulf of Mannar region, situated between India's southeastern coast and Sri Lanka's western shores.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Stalin warned of potential "irreversible damage" to the fragile marine ecosystem and urged reconsideration of the project.

Stalin highlighted the proximity of the project to a marine biosphere reserve, which harbors vital biodiversity including coral reefs, sea grass, and extensive mangrove forests.

These ecosystems are crucial for the region as they provide food, medicine, wood, and habitats for numerous species, including endangered ones, and serve as natural barriers against storms and tidal surges.

The Chief Minister also expressed concerns about the impact on a marine reserve for the dugong in Palk Bay, which is shared by India and Sri Lanka.

The area supports a diminishing yet crucial population of dugongs, classified as 'vulnerable' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature due to threats like water pollution. Dugongs are especially susceptible to human disturbances because of their long lifespan and slow reproductive rate.

Stalin emphasized the potential adverse effects on the livelihoods of thousands of Tamil fishermen, indicating that the project generates "immense anxiety among coastal communities." He highlighted risks such as sediment plumes, toxic waste discharge, and habitat destruction.

Moreover, Stalin criticized the central government for not consulting the state prior to auctioning blocks in the Gulf of Mannar region, urging the PM's intervention to reverse this action. He called for the removal of all biospheres and biodiversity hotspots from the Petroleum Ministry's Open Acreage Licensing Programme (OALP).

The contentious notification, issued on February 11, encompasses nearly 10,000 sq km within the Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve, which includes a marine national park over 560 sq km. Additionally, the dugong reserve covers 448 sq km.