Andaman and Nicobar Islands Lieutenant Governor Dr Dinesh Sharma said a comprehensive vision document will be prepared to make the Union Territory safer and more attractive for tourists.
The plan will consider nature-based solutions as well as applications of artificial intelligence, with experts contributing to the process.
Speaking at a climate change discussion organised by the Institute of Hydrocarbon Energy and Geo Resources at Lucknow University, Dr Sharma highlighted the islands’ considerable tourism potential.
He said the archipelago’s natural beauty and geographical setting provide opportunities to expand tourism while creating greater economic opportunities for local communities.
Dr Sharma said authorities would examine measures to protect tourists and residents from natural disasters while preserving the islands’ ecological character.
He added that authorities could develop new tourist attractions while preserving the region’s natural environment.
A series of expert workshops will contribute recommendations for the proposed vision document.
Dr Sharma highlighted rising temperatures and sea levels as significant environmental challenges. He said rising sea levels could also threaten mangrove forests in low-lying coastal areas, which help protect shorelines from erosion.
He also pointed to Barren Island, home to India’s only active volcano, and stressed the need to consider the possible impact of volcanic gases on nearby marine ecosystems.
Scientists and geologists at the discussion highlighted risks linked to earthquakes and tsunamis and called for more precise preparedness measures.
The islands also face challenges involving saline groundwater and high humidity because of their geographical setting.
Dr Sharma said healthcare facilities in the islands would also receive greater attention in the coming years.
Scientists participating in the discussion examined the geographical and environmental challenges facing the archipelago and offered suggestions for addressing them.
Lucknow University Vice-Chancellor Prof JP Saini, Zoology department head Dr Amita Kanojia, programme coordinator Dr Dhruv Sen Singh, Professor Vineet Verma, Professor Puneet Verma, Professor Manisha Banerjee, Professor CR Gautam and others attended the programme.
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