Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Coastal sand mining, the extraction of sand from beaches, dunes, river mouths, and shallow offshore areas, has become a pervasive issue along the Indian coastline. While legally sanctioned for construction and infrastructure development, a significant portion of this activity occurs illegally, driven by the booming construction sector. This practice, irrespective of its legality, poses a severe threat to the delicate coastal ecosystems, impacting biodiversity, livelihoods, and long-term coastal stability. The increasing demand for sand, coupled with lax enforcement, has exacerbated the problem, leading to widespread environmental degradation and necessitating urgent attention.
Ecological Impacts of Coastal Sand Mining
Sand mining disrupts the natural sediment balance of the coastline, leading to a cascade of negative environmental consequences.
- Coastal Erosion: Removal of sand weakens the natural buffer against waves and storms, accelerating erosion. This is particularly evident in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
- Habitat Loss: Beaches and dunes are crucial habitats for various species, including nesting sea turtles (Olive Ridley turtles in Odisha being a prime example), shorebirds, and crustaceans. Sand mining destroys these habitats.
- Impact on Fisheries: Sand mining disrupts breeding grounds for fish and other marine organisms, impacting local fisheries and livelihoods. The destruction of mangroves, often associated with sand mining, further exacerbates this issue.
- Groundwater Contamination: Mining can lead to saltwater intrusion into freshwater aquifers, contaminating drinking water sources.
- Damage to Coral Reefs & Marine Biodiversity: Offshore sand mining directly damages coral reefs and other sensitive marine ecosystems.
Regional Examples of Impact
Several coastal regions in India have been severely affected by sand mining:
- Kerala: Illegal sand mining in the coastal districts of Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Kollam has led to severe beach erosion and threats to traditional fishing communities.
- Tamil Nadu: The Pulicat Lake, a Ramsar site, has been impacted by sand mining activities, affecting its biodiversity and the livelihoods of local fishermen.
- Odisha: The Olive Ridley turtle nesting sites along the Odisha coast, particularly in Gahirmatha Marine Wildlife Sanctuary, are threatened by illegal sand mining.
- Maharashtra: Sand mining along the Konkan coast has contributed to increased coastal erosion and damage to mangrove forests.
- Goa: Rampant sand mining, both legal and illegal, has significantly altered the coastline, impacting tourism and the local ecosystem.
Legal and Regulatory Framework & Challenges
India has regulations governing sand mining, but enforcement remains a significant challenge.
| Regulation | Details |
|---|---|
| Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 | Provides a framework for environmental protection, including coastal areas. |
| Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2011 (amended 2018) | Regulates activities in coastal areas, including sand mining. Mining is generally prohibited in CRZ I & IV. |
| National Green Tribunal (NGT) | Plays a crucial role in addressing environmental violations, including illegal sand mining. |
Challenges include weak monitoring mechanisms, corruption, lack of coordination between different agencies, and the involvement of organized crime syndicates.
Socio-Economic Impacts
Beyond environmental damage, sand mining has significant socio-economic consequences:
- Loss of Livelihoods: Impacts fishing communities and tourism-dependent businesses.
- Increased Vulnerability to Disasters: Erosion increases the risk of flooding and storm surges.
- Social Conflicts: Disputes over sand mining rights often lead to conflicts between local communities and mining operators.
Conclusion
Coastal sand mining presents a complex environmental and socio-economic challenge for India. Addressing this issue requires a multi-pronged approach, including stricter enforcement of existing regulations, promoting sustainable alternatives to sand (like manufactured sand), enhancing monitoring mechanisms, and empowering local communities to participate in coastal management. A shift towards responsible resource management and a long-term vision for coastal sustainability are crucial to protect India’s valuable coastal ecosystems and the livelihoods they support.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.