Tamil Nadu launches Rs 50 Cr climate project to revive sinking Gulf of Mannar Island

In a step to combat climate-driven coastal erosion, Tamil Nadu has launched a Rs 50 crore restoration effort to revive Kariyachalli Island in the Gulf of Mannar. The island, which is part of the region’s fragile marine national park, has lost more than 70% of its land since 1969, shrinking from over 21 hectares to under six. Without intervention, experts warn it could vanish entirely by 2036.

The initiative falls under the World Bank-supported SHORE (Sustainably Harnessing Ocean Resources) programme and is being spearheaded by the state’s Department of Environment, Climate Change and Forests in collaboration with IIT Madras and the Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute. As part of the plan, 8,500 specially designed artificial reef blocks made of ferrocement and steel will be strategically placed around the island. These structures, engineered to absorb wave energy and encourage sedimentation, are also expected to enhance marine biodiversity by creating new habitats.

What makes this effort notable is the involvement of local fishing communities. Over 300 fishers from Tuticorin are being trained as conservation divers to assist in reef deployment—offering them new skills and livelihood opportunities in marine restoration and eco-tourism.

Speaking about the project, Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary of the Environment Department, described it as “a rare confluence of climate adaptation, conservation and community engagement, which aims to strengthen coastal resilience of Tuticorin and Rameswaram and protect local communities from natural calamities."

The government sees this as a model for inclusive climate action, where science, sustainability and people come together.

The restoration also includes coral and seagrass rehabilitation, and is part of the larger Rs 1,675 crore Tamil Nadu Coastal Restoration Mission, covering 14 districts and aiming to protect ecologically vital coastal landscapes and heritage.