The World Bank has approved a new programme to support coastal communities in India by conserving ecosystems, reducing plastic pollution and creating jobs for 1 lakh people in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The project would help the two States to conserve 30,000 hectares of seascapes by planting mangroves, restoration of sand dunes among others, the release added.
India has a long coastline of more than 11,000 km. Around 250 million people depend on coastal areas for their livelihood. The coastline also provides habitats for 18,000 known species of flora and fauna. However, marine ecosystems are at risk by the combined effect of coastal erosion, pollution, intensive fishing, degradation of mangrove forests and urban pressures.
The programme would also help 70,000 people, including women, receive training in sectors like sustainable tourism to gain new sources of income.
World Bank's Acting Country Director for India, Paul Procee said that India's Vision 2030 has recognised the potential of the blue economy to power its economic growth.