Rahul Gandhi writes to PM Modi: The leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has strongly criticised the central government’s decision to permit offshore mining along the coasts of Kerala, Gujarat, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He called the move a significant threat to marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of coastal communities.
Socio-environmental concern of offshore mining
In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gandhi voiced concerns over the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2023, highlighting its potential socio-economic and environmental impact. Rahul Gandhi expressed alarm over the government’s decision to open offshore mining blocks to private players without proper environmental assessments or stakeholder consultations. He noted that studies indicate offshore mining could harm marine life, damage coral reefs, and deplete fish stocks.
“I have written to PM Modi, strongly opposing the approval of offshore mining in Kerala, Gujarat, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, which was granted without consulting local stakeholders or conducting environmental assessments. Offshore mining threatens the livelihoods of millions of fisherfolk and poses irreversible harm to our rich marine ecosystems. The government must urgently rescind this decision,” Rahul Gandhi stated on his WhatsApp channel.
“The Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act 2023 was met with strong objections. Opening offshore mining blocks without rigorous impact assessments is concerning,” Gandhi stated. He pointed to the Ministry of Mines’ recent tender for 13 offshore blocks, including three for construction sand mining off Kollam’s coast, a critical fish breeding habitat, and three for polymetallic nodule extraction near the Great Nicobar Islands, a biodiversity hotspot.
Impact on livelihood of coastal communities
The Lok Sabha leader emphasised the severe implications for local communities. “Over 11 lakh people rely on fishing in Kerala. It is their traditional occupation and a vital part of their way of life. Damage to these ecosystems could be irreparable,” Gandhi noted. He also stressed that Great Nicobar is globally recognised for its unique biodiversity, with several endemic species at risk.
Rahul Gandhi urged the government to cancel the offshore mining tenders and prioritise comprehensive environmental and socio-economic studies. He called for greater consultation with stakeholders, particularly fisherfolk, whose livelihoods depend on healthy marine ecosystems.
“At a time when coastal erosion has worsened the impact of natural calamities like cyclones, it is concerning that the government is greenlighting such activities without scientific assessment. Let us work collectively towards a sustainable future for all,” he asserted.
(With agency inputs)