50 km claim false? Ministry’s own data shows Kollam sea sand mining sites less than 35 km away

Alappuzha: The claim by Union Ministry of Mines that offshore sea sand mining at Kollam Parappu (Quilon Bank) is taking place 50 km from the coast contradicts its own official records. Data presented at a roadshow organised by the ministry in Kochi contradicts Secretary, Ministry of Mines, V L Kantha Rao’s claim.

Ministry’s data reveals closer proximity
According to the ministry’s records:

• Kollam Block 1: Distance from shore – 33 km; Area – 79 sq km; Natural resources – 100.33 million tonnes; Water depth – 53.3 to 62.5 metres.
• Block 2: Distance from shore – 30 km; Area – 78 sq km; Natural resources – 100.64 million tonnes; Water depth – 48.4 to 61.4 metres.
• Block 3: Distance from shore – 27 km; Area – 85 sq km; Natural resources – 101.45 million tonnes; Water depth – 49.3 to 59 metres.

The secretary recently told Mathrubhumi that fishing activities occur between 20-25 km from the coast. Based on this, the proposed sea sand mining area is close to active fishing zones. The region has nearly 1,000 trawl boats operating regularly.

The ministry’s documents also highlight the need for seismic surveys every kilometre to assess the seabed, scientific analysis of mineral deposits, and an environmental impact assessment (EIA) before mining begins.

Environmental study controversy
The Union government has clarified that companies awarded mining tenders will conduct the EIA. The records suggest that data collection for these studies will take 40-50 days, which means that the study can be completed in a short span before mining begins.

The Fisheries Workers Coordination Committee has raised concerns about entrusting the same company responsible for mining with conducting the environmental assessment.

KC Venugopal labels move as fraud
Congress General Secretary and MP KC Venugopal criticised the ministry’s stance, calling it "illogical and unjust." He alleged that the move was a "green signal for black sand looting" and questioned how a company awarded a mining contract could conduct an impartial EIA. He demanded an independent and credible agency to carry out the study and urged the Union government to revoke the tender until this is ensured. Venugopal has also written to Union Minister G Kishan Reddy, seeking action.

Kerala government eyes royalty: NK Premachandran
The state government lacks sincerity in preventing mining activities and is instead attempting to increase its royalty revenue from mining, alleged RSP central committee member and MP NK Premachandran. He claimed that sea sand mining at Quilon Bank is causing complete destruction of marine resources. He further suggested that the real motive behind this move could be profiteering from black sand deposits.