Pulicat Lake’s Sea Mouth Opening Is Part of Centre’s Sagarmala Initiative

Context:

The Andhra Pradesh government, in collaboration with the Centre, is undertaking the project to open the sea mouth of Pulicat Lake at Rayadoruvu, Vakadu Mandal, Tirupati District. The project is partially funded by the Centre under the Sagarmala Programme, with additional support sought under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme.

Key Facts:

1. Project Cost: Total estimated cost is ₹133.11 crore. AP will fund 50% (₹64.40 crore), while the Centre’s contribution is capped at ₹50 crore, leaving a gap of ₹18.71 crore.
2. Objective: Restore free water flow between Pulicat Lake and the Bay of Bengal to revive lake hydrology and ecology.
3. Beneficiaries:
   • Approximately 25,000 traditional fishermen dependent on the lake.
   • Ecosystem services benefiting communities and biodiversity.
4. Environmental Impact:
   • Improved marine biodiversity, biomass increase.
   • Climate resilience through sustainable management of brackish water ecosystems.
5. Government Initiative: Part of Sagarmala Programme, which focuses on port-led development, coastal infrastructure, and maritime ecosystem sustainability.

Significance for UPSC Aspirants:

• Geography & Environment: Understanding the importance of coastal and brackish water ecosystems, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation.
• Polity & Governance: Illustrates Centre-State collaboration under flagship schemes like Sagarmala and SASCI.
• Economy & Livelihood: Highlights livelihood security of traditional fisherfolk and economic benefits from ecosystem restoration.
• Sustainable Development: A practical example of balancing infrastructure development with ecological conservation.
  
  Conclusion:
  The Pulicat Lake project demonstrates a holistic approach to coastal management, combining ecological restoration, livelihood support, and infrastructure development under a flagship maritime initiative. It also highlights the challenges of funding gaps and the need for integrated planning between Centre and State.
  
  Updated - 26 April 2025 10:14 PM | Deccan Chronicle