The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has included the deep-sea region of the Gulf of Mannar in its latest hydrocarbon exploration tender. 

• This move is part of the 10th round of the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP).
• The government has also included four deep-sea blocks near the Andaman & Nicobar Islands in the tender.
• Environmentalists and local communities have raised concerns about the potential ecological and economic impacts of oil and gas exploration in this sensitive region.

Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve

• The Gulf of Mannar, located off the coasts of Tamil Nadu, is a biosphere reserve home to rare and endangered marine species. 
• It is one of India’s most ecologically significant marine ecosystems. 
• It lies between the southeastern coast of Tamil Nadu and the western coast of Sri Lanka, covering an area of 10,500 sq. km. 
• The reserve was declared a Biosphere Reserve in 1989 and is India’s first marine biosphere reserve.

Biodiversity

• The Gulf of Mannar is home to over 4,000 species of flora and fauna, including:
  • Sea Turtles – Green, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, and Leatherback turtles.
  • Dolphins and Whales – Several species of marine mammals.
  • Coral Reefs – Around 117 species of corals, making it one of India’s most diverse coral ecosystems.
  • Seagrass Beds – Provide breeding and feeding grounds for marine species.
  • Mangroves – Help in coastal protection and serve as nurseries for fish.

Ecological Importance of Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve

• Supports Marine Biodiversity – It acts as a breeding and feeding ground for several marine species.
• Protects Coastlines: The  Coral reefs and mangroves in the biosphere reserve help prevent coastal erosion.
• Sustains Fisheries: Provides livelihood to over 100,000 fishermen in Tamil Nadu.
• Carbon Sink: Seagrass beds and mangroves absorb carbon dioxide, helping fight climate change.

Impact of Oil and Gas Exploration

• Seismic Surveys: The blast sounds used for mapping oil and gas reserves could disturb marine life.
• Chemical Waste: Waste from extraction could contaminate water and reduce fish populations, affecting local fisheries.
• Habitat Disruption: Oil spills and industrial activity may lead to irreversible damage to marine ecosystems.

Conclusion

While the government’s move aims to boost hydrocarbon exploration and energy production, it has sparked significant concerns among environmentalists and local communities. The Gulf of Mannar and Andaman and Nicobar Islands are ecologically sensitive regions, and any exploration activities could have far-reaching consequences for marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of coastal communities. Balancing economic development with environmental conservation remains a critical challenge.

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