Protests Over Proposed Offshore Mining in Kerala

Kerala has been at the forefront of protests against proposed offshore mining activities along its coast. Recent demonstrations in Delhi involved MPs and state legislators rallying against the Centre’s mining plan. The state Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution urging the central government to abandon the offshore mining initiative. This issue has arisen following amendments to the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, which now allows private sector participation in offshore mining.

Background of Offshore Mining in India

The Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act governs the exploration of mineral resources in India’s maritime zones. The 2023 amendment enables private entities to engage in offshore mining, previously controlled by central government agencies. This legislative change has sparked public concern, particularly in Kerala.

Details of the Proposed Mining

The central government initiated an e-auction process for 13 offshore blocks, three of which are located off the coast of Kerala. The proposed lease duration is 50 years. Geological surveys indicate that the Kollam coast has substantial deposits of construction-grade sand, estimated at 300 million tonnes across three mining blocks.

Legal Framework and Rights

The Offshore Areas Mineral Development and Regulation Act defines ‘offshore area’ to include territorial waters and the continental shelf. The Centre retains rights over mineral resources beyond 12 nautical miles from the coast, while fishing activities within this limit are managed by state authorities. This legal distinction has led to conflicts between state and central governance.

Impact on Fishermen and Marine Ecosystem

The proposed mining activities pose threats to the livelihoods of approximately 1.1 million fishermen in Kerala. Concerns include the degradation of productive fishing grounds, such as the Kollam parappu, and the potential for reduced marine biodiversity. Mining operations could cloud water, hindering photosynthesis and disrupting marine life. Furthermore, the deployment of large mining vessels may obstruct fishing activities and endanger fishermen’s safety.

Government Response and Mitigation Measures

In response to the protests, the Union Minister for Coal and Mines stated that the offshore mining blocks were designated after excluding numerous marine protected areas. The government has also established the Offshore Areas Mineral Trust to assist in mitigating ecological impacts and supporting affected communities. The funds generated from mining royalties will primarily benefit the central government.

Public Sentiment and Future Developments

Public sentiment in Kerala remains strongly against the mining proposal due to fears of environmental degradation and loss of livelihood. The ongoing protests reflect a broader concern regarding the balance between economic development and environmental conservation. The future of offshore mining in Kerala hinges on continued dialogue between state and central authorities, as well as public engagement in environmental governance.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of offshore mining on marine biodiversity and local communities in coastal regions.
2. Point out the legal distinctions between state and central government rights over maritime resources in India.
3. What are the implications of the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002 amendments? How do they affect private sector involvement?
4. Estimate the potential ecological consequences of sediment plumes generated by offshore mining activities on aquatic ecosystems.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of offshore mining on marine biodiversity and local communities in coastal regions.

1. Offshore mining threatens marine biodiversity by disrupting habitats and reducing fish populations.
2. Mining activities can lead to sediment clouding, which affects light penetration and photosynthesis.
3. Local communities, particularly fishermen, may face livelihood loss due to decreased catch and environmental degradation.
4. Health risks arise from potential toxic substance release into the marine environment.
5. Large mining vessels can obstruct fishing activities, endangering fishermen’s safety and access to fishing grounds.

2. Point out the legal distinctions between state and central government rights over maritime resources in India.

1. The Offshore Areas Mineral Development and Regulation Act grants the Centre control over resources beyond 12 nautical miles.
2. Fishing rights within 12 nautical miles are managed by state governments, as per the Constitution’s seventh schedule.
3. The definition of ‘offshore area’ includes territorial waters, continental shelf, and exclusive economic zones.
4. Disputes arise over jurisdiction and resource management between state and central authorities.
5. State governments have limited power over offshore mining activities that occur beyond their jurisdiction.

3. What are the implications of the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002 amendments? How do they affect private sector involvement?

1. The 2023 amendments allow private sector participation in offshore mining, previously restricted to government agencies.
2. A competitive auction process for offshore blocks encourages private investment in mineral exploration.
3. Environmental concerns arise as private entities may prioritize profit over ecological sustainability.
4. The amendments can lead to increased mining activity, raising risks to marine ecosystems and local communities.
5. Long-term leases (50 years) may limit future government intervention or regulatory changes.

4. Estimate the potential ecological consequences of sediment plumes generated by offshore mining activities on aquatic ecosystems.

1. Sediment plumes can travel vast distances, affecting areas far beyond the mining site.
2. Increased sediment can smother coral reefs and disrupt benthic organisms’ habitats.
3. Reduced light penetration from sediment clouding limits photosynthesis, affecting primary productivity.
4. Plumes may carry harmful substances, leading to bioaccumulation in marine food webs.
5. Overall, sediment plumes can lead to long-term ecological imbalances and loss of biodiversity in affected areas.