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Dugong Center Design Rethink Over Coastal Concerns
16 Jan
Summary
- Critically endangered dugongs need conservation center.
- Extensive concrete construction raises ecological red flags.
- Tamil Nadu asked to revise plans for eco-friendly design.
The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has requested substantial revisions to the design of Tamil Nadu's planned International Dugong Conservation Centre. Located in Manora, Thanjavur district, the ₹40.94-crore project aims to protect critically endangered dugongs. The EAC cited significant concerns regarding the proposed extensive concrete construction within ecologically sensitive Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ)-III No Development Zone areas.
The committee highlighted that nearly 22,000 square metres of the project site falls within this sensitive zone, which also includes mangroves and seagrass meadows vital for dugongs. While acknowledging the project's importance for marine mammal conservation, the EAC stressed that construction should adopt a 'Low Impact Engineering' approach to minimize environmental harm and blend with the natural surroundings.
Alternatives such as timber-based or prefabricated construction were suggested, along with shifting structures out of the No Development Zone. The EAC advised the Tamil Nadu government to study best practices and resubmit a revised plan focusing on eco-friendly design principles. The proposal awaits reconsideration pending these changes.
