Mangroves in Peril: Environmental Concerns at JSW Dharamtar Port

A sub-committee of the Environment Ministry reported environmental concerns at JSW Dharamtar Port due to coal dust covering mangroves and wastewater discharge. The port is seeking to expand its cargo capacity, and JSW Dharamtar Port has agreed to comply with recommendations to address these issues.

A significant environmental concern has emerged at the JSW Dharamtar Port, raiding alarms within the Environment Ministry. Observations from a recent site visit revealed severe ecological threats, including mangroves blanketed in coal and iron ore dust, along with wastewater discharge jeopardizing local waterways.

In the inspection, conducted by a sub-committee prior to expanding the port's cargo capacity, the impact of coal and iron ore transfer on the mangroves became evident. Despite the port's ambitions to increase its cargo handling from 33.95 MTPA to 54 MTPA, the expansion could exacerbate the environmental degradation, particularly the turbidity of the river water.

To mitigate these adverse effects, JSW Dharamtar Port has committed to adhering to the panel's recommendations, including implementing high screens to protect mangroves and developing a specific conservation plan. These measures aim to lessen the environmental damage while continuing operations at the port.