Aiming to safeguard the Bay of Bengal and the state’s rivers, the West Bengal government has decided to prepare a comprehensive oil spill disaster management plan.
“The initiative comes in the backdrop of recent shipwrecks along the Bengal coast, which raised concerns over oil pollution and its devastating impact on marine life, fisheries and livelihoods,” said a state government official.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has personally intervened in the matter and directed the preparation of the plan. Following her instructions, a high-level committee has been constituted at Nabanna, headed by Chief Secretary Manoj Pant. Senior officials from key departments—including disaster management, public health engineering, fisheries, irrigation and waterways, environment, transport, labour, and home—are part of this committee. Representatives from central agencies such as the Indian Coast Guard and Shyama Prasad Mookerjee Port have also been included.
The first meeting of the committee was held recently at Nabanna, the state secretariat, where it was decided that an action-orientated plan would be prepared to ensure swift response in case of oil spill incidents. According to Nabanna sources, “The Bay of Bengal and the state’s rivers are our assets. Keeping them pollution-free is linked not only to environmental protection but also to economic stability and people’s livelihoods. Immediate action is necessary to prevent damage from oil spills.”
Experts have repeatedly warned that oil leaks not only contaminate water but also disrupt the marine ecosystem and damage fisheries, directly impacting thousands of people dependent on river- and sea-based livelihoods.
Sources in the state administration said the Chief Secretary also issued a strong warning regarding another pressing concern—illegal sand mining. He pointed out that rampant extraction of sand from riverbeds is weakening the foundations of several bridges, raising the risk of major accidents. He directed district magistrates to treat sand theft prevention as a top priority.
Also Read: High alert along Kerala coastline as Singapore vessel poses risks
A district official, echoing the Chief Secretary’s instructions, said, “Illegal sand mining damages both the environment and infrastructure. Weak foundations can cause bridges to collapse at any time. The administration will now adopt stricter measures to curb this practice.” Departments concerned have been instructed to step up surveillance to prevent further damage.
The Environment Department said the initiative will play a crucial role in preserving water quality and ensuring the sustainability of the coastal economy. Experts believe that once implemented, the plan will mark a significant step forward in river and coastal management in West Bengal.
“With the government simultaneously addressing oil spill preparedness and cracking down on sand mining, we hope these measures will collectively safeguard not only the environment but also the state’s infrastructure and livelihoods,” said the official.
Also Read: Singapore vessel rescue: China says thank you India
Follow us
