Climate change poses serious threat to Andaman and Nicobar islands Lt Governor

    Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov 6 (PTI) Andaman and Nicobar Islands Lt Governor Dr Dinesh Sharma has said rising sea levels, temperatures and increasing intensity of cyclones pose a serious threat to the island territories, an official statement said on Friday.

    Addressing a seminar on 'The Future of Islands in the Era of Climate Change: With Special Reference to Andaman and Nicobar' in Lucknow on Thursday, Sharma stressed the need to redefine development in the face of growing environmental challenges, saying economic progress must go hand in hand with conservation of nature.

    He said some low-lying islands in the archipelago required special action plans to address the impact of climate change.

    Describing the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as the "guardians of India's borders", Sharma said the strategically important archipelago also represented the country's natural wealth and cultural diversity.

    "The waves of the sea should convey the message of life," he said, emphasising the need to establish harmony with nature rather than confront it.

    The Lieutenant Governor said climate change was not only threatening the natural beauty of the islands but also affecting the social life, traditions and livelihoods of local communities.

    Rising sea levels could have an impact on land availability, drinking water resources, agriculture and fisheries, given the close relationship between coastal communities and the sea, he said.

    Sharma called for the protection of forests and coral reefs, which act as natural barriers against sea waves and cyclones.

    He also stressed the need to adopt clean energy, strengthen rainwater harvesting and incorporate the traditional knowledge and experiences of local and tribal communities into climate mitigation efforts.

    Emphasising sustainable development, he said a proper balance must be maintained between infrastructure expansion and environmental protection.

    Sharma said the islands would emerge as a major centre for maritime trade in the coming years, contributing to India's economic growth and strengthening its strategic capabilities.

(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)