National Green Tribunal Clears Holistic Development of Great Nicobar Island Project Citing Strategic Importance
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has upheld the environmental clearance for the ₹80,000-90,000 crore 'Holistic Development of Great Nicobar Island' project. The project includes an International Container Transshipment Terminal, a greenfield airport, a power plant, and a township. While environmentalists raised concerns about the impact on leatherback sea turtles and coral colonies, the NGT adopted a 'balanced approach,' weighing environmental safeguards against national security. The tribunal ruled that the project is strategically vital due to its proximity to the Malacca Strait and will not displace the Shompen and Nicobari tribes.
Key Points
- The NGT cleared the Great Nicobar project, emphasizing its strategic importance near the Malacca Strait for maritime security.
- The project involves the translocation of approximately 16,150 coral colonies to suitable recipient sites to mitigate environmental impact.
- The tribunal stated that the habitat rights of the Shompen and Nicobari tribes would be protected under the Forest Rights Act.
- The project covers roughly 18% of the total area of Great Nicobar Island and aims to generate 1.28 lakh jobs.
Exam Facts
- Project cost is estimated at ₹80,000-90,000 crore.
- Great Nicobar is located 40 km from the Malacca Strait, a critical international shipping lane.
- The project is implemented by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation Limited (ANIIDCO).
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