The NHRC has directed the Union Home Secretary to take appropriate action within eight weeks to protect the Wheeler Island, India’s lone missile test-firing range, from erosion and to ensure friendly atmosphere for the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles.
The apex human rights watchdog passed the direction while acting over a petition filed by environmentalist Radhakanta Tripathy. Radkhakant in his petition alleged that due to inaction of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), the Island has witnessed continued erosion, creating serious concern for the local inhabitants.
Knowing that some 300 metres of sand area have been submerged due to erosion, the DRDO authorities are yet to take steps to safeguard the area, Tripathy alleged. Tripathy also alleged that the test-fire of missiles have impacted the Olive Ridley sea turtles on Gahirmatha coast, closer to the Island, during their mating and nesting period November to April every year. Since the island is technically a shoal, seawater frequently causes sand-shifting, he alleged. .
Tripathy also urged the NHRC to direct the DRDO to request Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy to assist in patrolling and anti-poaching operations during the nesting period.