15.11.2025

The Great Nicobar Project Controversy

Project Scope and Environmental Stakes

Great Nicobar Island, part of a major biosphere reserve, hosts rare species including the Shompen tribe, leatherback turtles, mangroves, megapodes, and coral colonies. The ₹92,000-crore project includes a transshipment terminal, airport, power plants, and new townships.
 The development threatens nearly one million trees, risks major biodiversity loss, and may disrupt key ecological functions such as monsoon regulation.

Regulatory and Transparency Issues

Despite earlier assurances, the Environment Ministry later admitted severe environmental impacts at Galathea Bay, though the National Green Tribunal still approved the project.
 The 2021 de-notification of the Galathea Bay Wildlife Sanctuary removed significant protections.
 CRZ classification was downgraded from CRZ-1A to CRZ-1B, enabling port development despite ecological objections.
 The Environment Ministry withheld reports used for CRZ reclassification citing “defense reasons,” raising transparency concerns.
 The region’s seismic activity, tsunamis, erosion, and sea-level rise add substantial geological and climatic risks.

Broader Concerns

The project reflects the tension between strategic development and ecological protection. Experts criticize inadequate disaster assessments, weak scientific justification, and threats to indigenous Shompen rights.
 The government argues it balances development with sustainability, but critics say mitigation plans lack transparency and scientific rigor.

Analogy: Data Protection Act Comparison

Like the DPDP Act—designed to protect privacy but offering broad government exemptions—the project shows a similar conflict where strategic aims may override essential safeguards and accountability.

Conclusion

The project offers strategic value but risks irreparable ecological damage and weakened governance. Ensuring transparent assessments, protecting tribal rights, and prioritizing ecological limits are essential to prevent long-term environmental and social harm.