The Great Nicobar Island, part of India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has faced significant ecological challenges due to developmental pressures. One of the most notable issues involves the near-destruction of a wildlife sanctuary on the island.
In recent years, the Indian government approved large-scale infrastructure projects on the Great Nicobar Island, including a strategic port, an airport, and a transshipment hub. These projects aimed to bolster economic growth and enhance connectivity but led to severe environmental degradation. The proposed developments encroached upon the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, a crucial sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including endangered species like the Nicobar pigeon and the saltwater crocodile.
Source:- news 18
The sanctuary’s destruction resulted from deforestation and habitat fragmentation, crucial for the island’s unique flora and fauna. Large swathes of pristine forest were cleared to make way for construction, disrupting ecosystems and displacing wildlife. The loss of this habitat has had a devastating impact on the biodiversity of the island. The Nicobar Islands, known for their rich biological diversity and unique ecosystems, faced the brunt of this ecological disaster.
Source:- news 18
Despite international and national protests highlighting the sanctuary’s importance for conservation, the projects proceeded, driven by strategic and economic priorities. The destruction of the sanctuary underscores the ongoing conflict between development and conservation. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for balanced approaches that consider both environmental sustainability and economic growth. The Great Nicobar Island’s plight exemplifies the broader challenge of preserving fragile ecosystems in the face of relentless industrial expansion.
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