Power generation vs. environment

We understand that the decline in natural gas reserve and the growing demand for electricity have impelled the government to go for coal-based power production; but it should not come at the cost of the Sundarbans. We wonder how the government assumed that the coal transportation through the Sundarbans waterways would not cause any serious damage to the local environment and ecosystem.

Mangrove mud can easily accumulate the tanker-spilled fuel oil and this spilled oil can gradually re-suspend and circulate throughout the river networks during tides. Therefore, point-source spills (Point Source Pollution is when sources of pollution come to the river at one point. Oil spills and dumping also play a major role in point source pollution) can become a source of chronic oiling. The noise caused by coal tankers can also hamper the biodiversity. Furthermore, the plant site is located at a zone vulnerable to cyclone and tidal surge. But the project planning and EIA report seriously lack emergency situation management strategies. Thus, an intense cyclone can damage the plant and induce catastrophic disaster in the regional environment.

Considering these factors, the plant site needs to be relocated immediately. The government should seek for harmony between economy and environment, not a trade-off.

Asif Ishtiaque
PhD Student  
School of Geographical Sciences & Urban Planning,
Arizona State University, USA