Could Artificial Islands Be the Solution for Naval Infrastructure Vulnerability in Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
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Synopsis
Explore how the Indian Navy is considering innovative solutions like artificial islands to combat the threats posed by climate change and rising sea levels to its infrastructure in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This approach could redefine naval operations in vulnerable coastal regions.
Key Takeaways
- Artificial islands may be constructed to enhance naval infrastructure resilience.
- The Indian Navy is actively addressing climate change challenges.
- Coastal afforestation and mangrove restoration are crucial for preventing erosion.
- The Navy assesses weather conditions during mission planning.
- A committee regularly monitors climate change impacts on naval operations.
New Delhi, July 28 (NationPress) The creation of artificial islands with increased elevation may be explored as a strategy to mitigate the risks faced by the Naval infrastructure in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands due to the challenges posed by rising sea levels and climate change, as reported to the Rajya Sabha on Monday.
Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth provided a written response, noting that many areas within the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are situated less than 5 meters above the mean sea level. Comprehensive data regarding cyclonic storm occurrences, their impacts, and tsunami wave travel times at various ports have been compiled by the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography (METOC) organization.
Regarding the vulnerabilities of Naval infrastructure, particularly in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Minister of State stated, “Proposals for alternatives such as land reclamation and the establishment of artificial islands with elevated terrain, specifically for naval purposes, are under consideration over the long term.”
He also mentioned that to combat coastal and beach erosion, initiatives for coastal afforestation and the restoration of mangroves are being implemented in naval areas adjacent to the shore.
Seth was answering a query from Ajeet Gopchade concerning measures taken or planned to counteract the effects of global warming and climate change on military personnel and defense systems.
The Minister noted that the Navy’s Maritime Capability Perspective Plan is designed to adapt to new challenges, including those presented by climate change.
“A Coordination and Monitoring Committee on Climate Change convenes regularly to discuss, monitor, and oversee climate-related issues in the context of the Indian Navy. The focus of these discussions is the implications of Global Mean Sea Level Rise on nations in the Indian Ocean Region and the operational domain of the Indian Navy,” he stated.
Seth further explained that during mission planning, a thorough analysis of anticipated weather conditions is conducted to assess their potential impact on ships, aircraft, submarines, and personnel exposed to these conditions.
He added that the planned induction of platforms takes into consideration the essential operational efficiency of platforms and their weapons, sensors, equipment, and systems under adverse weather circumstances.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the proactive measures being considered to safeguard our naval infrastructure against climate change. The proposed creation of elevated artificial islands reflects a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes both national security and environmental resilience.
NationPress
30/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of creating artificial islands for the Navy?
The artificial islands are intended to enhance the resilience of naval infrastructure against the threats posed by rising sea levels and climate change.
How does the Indian Navy plan to address climate change impacts?
The Indian Navy has developed a Maritime Capability Perspective Plan that includes adapting to emerging challenges, such as climate change, through innovative solutions like artificial islands.
What measures are being taken to protect coastal areas?
Coastal afforestation and the restoration of mangroves are among the measures being undertaken to prevent coastal and beach erosion.
How often does the Coordination and Monitoring Committee meet?
The Coordination and Monitoring Committee on Climate Change meets periodically to discuss and oversee climate-related issues affecting the Indian Navy.
What data has been compiled regarding climate threats?
Data on the frequency of cyclonic storms, impacts, and tsunami wave travel times at various ports have been compiled by the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography organization.
