Why in news?
- The National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) has proposed India’s first offshore wind demonstration farm near Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu. The 50 MW project, part of the ASPIRE programme, has drawn criticism because of its proximity to the newly declared Greater Flamingo Sanctuary.
- Local fishermen, environmentalists and forest officials fear the project could damage bird habitats, fish breeding grounds and livelihoods.
Background
- The proposed site at the southern tip of Rameswaram Island experiences average wind speeds of 8.3 m/s, ideal for testing large offshore turbines. The facility would occupy about 75 acres and include four turbines, a logistics jetty and a research station.
- The project aims to act as a “living laboratory” to refine turbine performance, corrosion resistance and maintenance strategies as part of India’s target of deploying 30 GW of offshore wind by 2030.
- The site lies within Coastal Regulation Zone categories, including the intertidal zone (CRZ 1B), requiring clearance from state coastal authorities.
Ecological significance of the Greater Flamingo Sanctuary
- The sanctuary is a declared wetland crucial for both migratory and resident birds. It lies on the Central Asian Flyway and provides feeding and resting grounds for herons, egrets, sandpipers, terns, greater and lesser flamingos, Kentish and Hanuman plovers and other waders.
- A recent wetland bird census recorded 10,761 birds and nearly 128 species in the area, emphasising its biodiversity value.
- The region’s mudflats also support fish breeding and are important for local fishermen.
Concerns and mitigation measures
- Fishermen worry that building a jetty and turbine foundations could disturb fish breeding grounds and block traditional routes, impacting livelihoods.
- Environmentalists point out that turbines and overhead cables pose collision risks to birds and threaten turtle nesting sites; they note that similar projects elsewhere have caused bird mortality.
- NIWE contends that the project is research‑oriented and will include noise‑reducing technologies, bird flight diverters and bubble curtains during pile driving. An environmental management plan proposes continuous monitoring of seawater quality, sediment and biodiversity.
- The District Coastal Zone Management Authority recommended the project with 13 stringent conditions, including protecting turtle nests, sand dunes and fish breeding grounds and obtaining separate clearances for the jetty.
Conclusion
Offshore wind energy is critical for India’s clean‑energy ambitions. However, the proposed Dhanushkodi demonstration farm underscores the need to balance innovation with ecological protection. Transparent consultations, rigorous environmental assessments and adherence to mitigation measures are essential to safeguard the Greater Flamingo Sanctuary and local communities.
Source: The New Indian Express