Kollam Sand Mining Threatens Marine Ecosystem.
Kollam, located along Kerala’s scenic coastline, has recently drawn attention not for its pristine beaches, but for the discovery of a remarkable and thriving marine ecosystem beneath its waters. Divers from Friends of Marine Life and Scuba Cochin have uncovered vibrant reefs teeming with both hard and soft corals, along with numerous marine species that call the Kollam coast home. The discovery was made just as the central government’s sand mining project for the region is slated to begin.
During their dives, the team recorded over 15 varieties of corals, some growing in turbid waters, a testament to the resilience of these marine species in conditions previously thought unsuitable for coral growth. The reefs, stretching from Varkala to Kollam, are described as laterite-type, with biodiversity levels that stand out when compared to other nearby reefs. The findings prompted immediate concerns from divers and marine experts about the impending risks of large-scale sand mining activities.
One of the divers from Friends of Marine Life stated, “We observed a variety of corals that are thriving in these challenging waters. These reefs are unique and could be irreparably harmed if the sand mining project is allowed to proceed.” Their concerns echo those raised by Kerala University’s Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, which conducted its own year-long study of the region. Their report confirms that the area is ecologically sensitive and supports a wide array of marine life. Marine experts warn that seabed mining, though seemingly targeted at extracting sand, involves stirring up the ocean floor, causing disturbances that could disrupt habitats for marine organisms such as shrimp, crabs, and a multitude of fish species.
The biodiversity-rich Quilon Bank, located near Kollam, is particularly vulnerable, as the mining could damage the local fishing zone that sustains thousands of livelihoods.
The study conducted by Kerala University dives deeper into the potential risks, highlighting how the delicate coral ecosystem supports the area’s ecological balance. These reefs, in addition to their marine biodiversity, also provide vital functions such as habitat for fish and protection for the coastline against erosion.
Despite the scientific backing of these warnings, the debate over the sand mining project has intensified, with some questioning the socio-economic benefits of exploiting this natural resource. Local fishing communities and environmental activists alike have voiced their concerns, with many calling for a reevaluation of the project in light of the new marine discoveries. As the controversy over the Kollam sand mining project continues, further digital mapping and visual documentation of the reefs will be undertaken to build a comprehensive case against the mining proposal. For now, the marine life that thrives beneath Kollam’s shores faces an uncertain future, and the battle for its preservation is far from over.
