New Delhi: Sand mining along three blocks off the Kollam coast will only commence after conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), the Central Government has clarified. 

The tender process for mining has begun, and the detailed environmental study will be conducted after awarding the tender, said V L Kantha Rao, secretary of the Ministry of Mines, to Mathrubhumi. The responsibility of conducting the EIA will lie with the selected bidder. Efforts are underway to complete the tender process by March. The proceedings began with a workshop in Kochi involving government representatives and stakeholders from the fisheries sector.

"Currently, three blocks off the Kollam coast have been identified for mining after examination by an expert committee. These areas have minimal marine biodiversity and high concentrations of minerals. The selected blocks are located 50 kilometres away from the shoreline, while fishing activities are carried out within 20-25 kilometres. While the mining may have some impact on fisheries, a detailed study will be conducted before proceeding with mining operations," Kantha Rao said.

Other assurances

  • Surveys and environmental studies will be conducted in the identified areas
  • The EIA process is expected to take two to three years for completion
  • The selected bidders must obtain approvals from various departments and ministries for deep-sea mining
  • The environmental study report will be subjected to public scrutiny before granting approval

Kollam shelf – A rich fish habitat
According to CMFRI (Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute) and Fisheries Department authorities, the Kollam shelf is a rich habitat for surface-dwelling fish species, including prawns. Nearly 30 percent of prawn varieties available in Kerala are sourced from this region. Sardines (mathi), mackerel (ayala), anchovies (natholi), seer fish (ayakoora), Pink perch (kilimeen), ribbon fish (vala) and tuna (chura) are also found in abundance. The region has several small harbours as well.

The fishing zone stretches from Varkala to Ambalapuzha, covering a distance of 85 kilometres, and is located 32 to 61 nautical miles west of the coastline. An estimated 3,000 trawl boats, 550 fibre boats and around 100 inboard motorised boats operate in this area.

No role for State Government
The State Government has no role in the proposed marine sand mining project, as the Central Government holds complete authority. As per the 2023 amended law, both exploration and mining can be assigned to a single agency. There is no legal requirement to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment before granting approval for mining activities.