A newly constructed jetty at the Kamarajar Port in Ennore.
Latest Developments: The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department (WRD) has announced that it is seeking ₹160 crore from Kamarajar Port in Ennore, Tamil Nadu. This fund is aimed at addressing the urgent need to remove invasive mussels from the coastal region, linked to an ongoing environmental case surrounding the invasive species known as Mytella strigata, or charru mussel. This mussel threatens local marine ecosystems and disrupts fishing activities, directly impacting the livelihoods of local fishermen. The WRD attributes the spread of this invasive species to Kamarajar Port’s failure to regulate ballast water discharged from vessels.
Understanding Ballast Water
Ballast water is essential for maintaining a ship’s stability. As ships discharge cargo, they intake seawater into ballast tanks to ensure proper immersion. During cargo loading, this ballast water is expelled to accommodate additional weight. Historically, there were minimal regulations regarding ballast water management at ports, which has led to the unwarranted introduction of invasive species into new environments via this water.
The Severity of the Invasive Species Problem
India has seen approximately 30 invasive species recorded as a result of ship ballast water, with the charru mussel, Mytella rigata, being one of the most detrimental. Reports indicate that this mussel has nearly eradicated native species in Pulicat Lake in Tamil Nadu and Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala, demonstrating its high survival and reproduction rates, even in freshwater environments.
Global Regulations on Ballast Water
The Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention, enforced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) since September 2017, aims to prevent the spread of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens. Under this convention, vessels are required to manage their ballast water effectively, ensuring harmful organisms are eliminated before the ballast water is discharged at new locations.
Modern vessels equipped with ballast water management systems treat a portion of their ballast water by adding chemicals to eradicate biological organisms before releasing it during cargo loading. Older ships lacking these systems must exchange port-acquired ballast water with ‘neutral’ water from open seas during transit.
India’s Position on Ballast Water Management
As reported, 97 countries have signed the BWM Convention as contracting states, but India is not among them. The absence of this designation means that ships docking at Indian ports are not required to comply with the BWM regulations. Although there are regulations regarding oil discharge, ballast water management remains unchecked, leaving Indian marine ecosystems vulnerable.
“There are currently no restrictions on ballast water discharge in Indian ports,” stated a maritime law expert. Ports facilitate ship traffic but cannot be held liable for issues arising from ballast water discharge unless a specific law is enacted, underscoring the need for India to adopt the BWM Convention.
