‘Threat To Marine Life’: Rahul Writes To PM Modi, Slams Govt’s ‘Arbitrary’ Offshore Mining Nod

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has strongly opposed the central government’s decision to permit offshore mining along the coasts of Kerala, Gujarat, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, warning that it poses a grave threat to marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul criticised the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2023, which he said had faced significant objections over environmental and socio-economic concerns. He pointed out that the decision to open offshore mining blocks to private players was taken without a rigorous environmental assessment or consultation with stakeholders.

“The Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2023 was met with strong objections. Opening up offshore mining blocks to private players without any rigorous assessment of its impact was concerning,” Rahul stated.

Citing research, he highlighted the potential risks associated with offshore mining, including threats to marine life, damage to coral reefs, and depletion of fish stocks. “Studies point to its adverse impacts, including threats to marine life, damage to coral reefs and the depletion of fish stock,” he said.

Rahul further underscored the controversy surrounding the Ministry of Mines’ decision to invite tenders for 13 offshore mining blocks, which triggered protests against what he termed an “arbitrary move.” Among these, three blocks are designated for mining construction sand off the Kollam coast, a crucial fish breeding habitat, while three others are for polymetallic nodule extraction off the Great Nicobar Islands, a biodiversity hotspot.

“In fact, the ongoing survey of the Marine Monitoring Lab (MML) of the University of Kerala’s Department of Aquatic Biology & Fisheries found that offshore mining could have a devastating impact on fish breeding, especially in Kollam,” he noted.

Rahul Gandhi Urges Modi Govt To Cancel Offshore Mining Tenders

Urging the government to cancel the offshore mining tenders immediately, the Lok Sabha LoP called for comprehensive environmental and socio-economic studies before any further action is taken. He stressed the need for consultations with affected communities, particularly fisherfolk, who depend on the health of marine ecosystems for their livelihoods.

“Over 11 lakh people rely on fishing in Kerala. It is their traditional occupation and is closely tied to their way of life. Great Nicobar is globally recognised for harbouring diverse ecosystems and is home to several endemic species of wildlife. Any damage due to offshore mining could potentially cause irreparable harm,” he cautioned.

Rahul also pointed out that India’s coastal ecosystems are already under threat due to worsening erosion, which has amplified the impact of natural calamities like cyclones. He criticised the government for allegedly “greenlighting activities without scientific assessment.”

“I strongly urge the government to cancel the tenders issued for the offshore mining blocks. Furthermore, rigorous scientific studies must be undertaken to assess the environmental and socio-economic impact of offshore mining. But most importantly, all stakeholders, especially our fisherfolk, must be consulted before any major decision is taken. Their lives are intertwined with the fate of our oceans. Let us work collectively towards building a sustainable future for all,” he asserted.