Great Nicobar Island Development Project Faces Environmental Concerns

Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar Islands – September 20, 2025 The ambitious Great Nicobar Island Development Project, spearheaded by NITI Aayog and being developed by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDC), has come under scrutiny due to environmental and social concerns. Conceived as a multi-sectoral infrastructure initiative, the project plans to transform Great Nicobar Island into a hub for commerce, logistics, and sustainable energy. However, critics argue that the project threatens fragile ecosystems and could displace indigenous communities such as the Shompen and Nicobarese tribes. The ₹81,000-crore project proposes the construction of an international container transhipment terminal, an international airport, a gas-based power plant, and a solar power facility, alongside supporting infrastructure including roads, hospitals, and educational institutions. Proponents highlight the potential for economic growth, employment generation, and enhanced connectivity for the Union Territory, which has traditionally faced challenges in trade and logistics due to its remote location. While the economic prospects are undeniable, environmentalists and social activists have raised alarm over the potential ecological impact. Great Nicobar Island is home to unique biodiversity, including endangered species of flora and fauna, mangrove forests, and coral reefs. Experts warn that large-scale construction and industrial activity could lead to habitat destruction, soil erosion, and disruption of marine ecosystems. The delicate balance of these ecosystems is particularly important given the island’s vulnerability to climate change and rising sea levels. Equally concerning is the potential impact on indigenous populations. The Shompen and Nicobarese tribes have traditionally relied on the island’s natural resources for their livelihoods and cultural practices. Relocation or restricted access could threaten their way of life, cultural heritage, and social structure. Activists argue that proper consultation with these communities is essential and that any development must respect their rights under the Forest Rights Act and other protective legislation. In response to the criticism, officials from the Andaman and Nicobar Administration have emphasized that environmental and social impact assessments are being conducted in line with national and international standards. Authorities have pledged to adopt mitigation measures to minimize ecological damage, such as eco-sensitive zoning, afforestation programs, and sustainable construction practices. Moreover, the administration has stated that plans for tribal rehabilitation will be implemented through participatory decision-making processes, ensuring that affected communities have a voice in the development process. The controversy surrounding the Great Nicobar project underscores the broader challenge of balancing economic development with environmental sustainability and social equity. As India seeks to boost regional connectivity and infrastructure, projects in ecologically sensitive areas like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands highlight the need for careful planning, scientific assessment, and respect for local communities.