Work on to save shrinking island in Gulf of Mannar

The Tamil Nadu government has commenced a ₹50 crore restoration project with the support of the World Bank to save Kariyachalli Island, one of 21 islands in the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, as part of the Tamil Nadu SHORE (Sustainably Harnessing Ocean Resources) initiative.

- SV KRISHNA CHAITANYA @ Chennai

This ambitious effort aims to combat severe coastal erosion, protect marine biodiversity, and ensure the island's survival and stability, which is critical for ecological and community benefits, especially among small-scale fisherfolk who depend on this ecosystem.

Kariyachalli has lost over 71% of its landmass, shrinking from 20.85 hectares in 1969 to just 5.97 hectares by 2018, with experts warning that it could vanish entirely by 2036 if current erosion trends continue.