EAC Directs Tamil Nadu to Revise International Dugong Conservation Centre Plan Over Environmental Concerns
The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) of the Union Environment Ministry has asked the Tamil Nadu government to substantially revise the design for the proposed International Dugong Conservation Centre at Manora, Thanjavur. The ₹40.94-crore project faces scrutiny because nearly 22,000 square metres of the site fall within the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ)-III 'No Development Zone.' The EAC expressed concerns over the use of heavy concrete structures in a pristine area containing mangroves and seagrass meadows. It recommended adopting a 'Low Impact Engineering' approach using eco-friendly materials like timber to minimize environmental harm.
Key Points
- Dugongs are critically endangered marine mammals and serve as a keystone species for seagrass ecosystems.
- The proposed conservation centre aims to facilitate research, rescue, rehabilitation, and public awareness.
- The EAC highlighted that the current design violates CRZ-III and overlaps with CRZ-I areas involving mangroves.
- The committee suggested shifting structures out of the No Development Zone and using prefabricated or composite materials.
Exam Facts
- Project cost is ₹40.94 crore.
- Location: Manora, Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu.
- Dugongs are listed as a keystone species for seagrass ecosystems.
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