In a significant move to protect the fragile island ecosystem of Lakshadweep, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed that all tourism-related activities in the archipelago must operate strictly within its ecological carrying capacity and adhere to robust environmental safeguards.
The order places responsibility on the Lakshadweep Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC) to ensure that tourism expansion does not compromise the islands’ delicate coral atoll ecosystem.
Tent City Projects Under Scrutiny
The tribunal specifically addressed the “tent city” tourism project involving prefabricated structures on Bangaram Island and the northern and southern parts of Thinnakara Island. It directed that these developments must remain strictly within the ecological limits of the respective islands.
The NGT further instructed the Lakshadweep Pollution Control Committee (LPCC) to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the sites and submit a detailed compliance report within eight weeks. The review must examine adherence to conditions outlined in the “Consent to Establish” (August 6, 2024) and “Consent to Operate” (January 17, 2025).
Continuous Monitoring Mandated
The tribunal’s southern bench directed the District Collector of Kavaratti, the LPCC, the Department of Forest & Environment, and LTDC to maintain constant oversight of tourism operations and overall environmental health across the islands.
It also mandated that M/s. Praveg Limited the hospitality operator managing the tent cities or any other operating entity must:
• Ensure full compliance with prescribed environmental norms
• Submit regular compliance reports to LPCC and publish them online
• Properly manage plastic, electronic, and solid waste through authorised agencies
• Submit biannual environmental audit reports
Additionally, the LPCC has been directed to undertake drone surveys of the entire island chain every six months and conduct periodic environmental sanitation and restoration drives. Any signs of degradation must trigger immediate remedial action.
Inspections Show No Immediate Violations
According to the tribunal’s observations, a technical committee inspection in 2024 and 2025 found no violations at the project sites. Wastewater treatment and solid waste management systems were reportedly functioning in compliance with environmental standards.
However, the NGT’s order signals a precautionary approach acknowledging that Lakshadweep’s small landmass, limited freshwater availability, and coral reef systems make it highly vulnerable to overdevelopment.
Balancing Tourism and Ecology
Lakshadweep’s crystal-clear lagoons and coral reefs have long drawn tourists, but environmentalists and local communities have raised concerns about the ecological cost of rapid infrastructure expansion.
By emphasising carrying capacity limits and ongoing monitoring, the tribunal’s directive reinforces a broader principle: tourism growth in ecologically sensitive zones must not outpace environmental resilience.
As island ecosystems face increasing pressure from climate change and development, the NGT’s intervention underscores the need for careful, science-based planning ensuring that economic ambitions do not come at the expense of long-term ecological stability.