Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project (GNIP)
Why it Matters?
The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) for the ₹72,000-crore Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project downplays earthquake risks despite expert warnings about the region's high seismic vulnerability and the need for site-specific studies.
What You Should Know?
The Great Nicobar Island Project (GNIP) was launched in 2021 to develop strategic infrastructure at the southern end of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
It involves setting up a transshipment port, an international airport, a township, and a 450 megavolt-Amperes (MVA) gas and solar-based power plant.
The project is implemented by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO).
GNIP is strategically located near the Malacca Strait, connecting the Indian Ocean to the Pacific and boosting maritime trade.
NITI Aayog identified GNI’s location as ideal for tapping into regional shipping between Colombo, Port Klang, and Singapore.
The International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) is planned at Galathea Bay, an uninhabited part of the island.
The project aims to reduce India's dependence on foreign ports for cargo transshipment.
UNEP defines Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as a tool used to identify the environmental, social and economic impacts of a project prior to decision-making.
Environment Impact Assessment in India is statutorily backed by the Environment Protection Act, 1986 which contains various provisions on EIA methodology and process.
Andaman and Nicobar group of islands fall under seismic zone V.