Possible ecological consequences from the Sethu Samudram Canal Project, India
D V Subba Rao1, K Srinivasa Rao, C S P Iyer
1Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Habitat Ecology Division, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Dartmouth, NS, Canada. onyx@accesswave.ca
Marine Pollution Bulletin
|December 18, 2007
Summary
The Sethu Samudram Canal Project (SSCP) will create a shipping channel impacting marine biodiversity and ecosystems. A long-term environmental monitoring program is crucial for assessing these irreversible changes.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Environmental Science
- Coastal Engineering
Background:
- The Sethu Samudram Canal Project (SSCP) is a large-scale engineering initiative to create a shipping channel connecting the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
- This project traverses a significant Marine Biosphere Reserve, raising concerns about its unique biota and biodiversity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the potential environmental impacts of the Sethu Samudram Canal Project.
- To recommend a framework for long-term environmental monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Review of the project's scope and potential ecological consequences.
- Consideration of water mass exchange dynamics between the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
- Proposal for a Before/After and Control/Impact (BACI) model for environmental assessment.
Main Results:
- The SSCP involves irreversible environmental changes due to construction, dredging, and increased ship traffic.
- The channel may alter water salinity and facilitate the exchange of marine species.
- The project poses risks to the marine ecosystem and local fishing communities.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive, long-term environmental monitoring program is essential to mitigate and manage the impacts of the SSCP.
- Implementing a robust monitoring strategy, such as the BACI model, is vital for understanding and addressing ecological changes.
- Addressing the concerns of the 50,000 fishing folk dependent on this ecosystem is paramount.
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