Context
Recently the Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department (WRD) observed that Kamarajar Port is the main reason for the spread of the invasive species by not regulating the ballast water from ships.
About
- Tamil Nadu’s Water Resources Department (WRD) is in search of ₹160 crore from Kamarajar Port to cope with the invasive charru mussel (Mytella strigata) issue.
- The mussel disrupts marine ecosystems and affects fisher boat movements.
About Ballast Water
- Ballast water is seawater taken on board ships to keep balance and immersion.
- It is pumped in when shipment is unloaded and pumped out whilst cargo is loaded.
Utility Used for stability and maneuverability of ships for the duration of voyages.
- Helps whilst ships are empty, lightly loaded, or want more stability due to rough seas.
- Adds weight to ensure the ship can pass under bridges and structures.
Emerging Issues
- Ballast water can carry invasive species, leading to ecological harm.
- There were loads of invasions due to ballast water, frequently with severe ecological impacts.
- In India, around 30 invasive species had been recorded, with the charru mussel being specially harmful.
Global Regulations
- The Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention, effective from September 8, 2017, requires ships to manipulate ballast water to prevent the unfolding of harmful organisms. Ships have to treat ballast water or trade it with oceanic water before discharge.
- Countries like Australia and New Zealand carefully put into effect ballast water guidelines to defend their ecosystems, inclusive of the Great Barrier Reef.
India’s Position
- India has now not signed the BWM Convention, which means there aren’t any particular regulations or checks for ballast water discharge at Indian ports. Indian ports aren’t liable for regulating ballast water.
- Under present day Indian law, ports aren’t liable for invasive species caused by ballast water. Ship proprietors can be held responsible if regulations have been in place.
Conclusion and Way Forward
- It is recommended that India ought to undertake the BWM Convention.
- Ships have to manage their ballast water in step with the BWM Convention to prevent the spread of harmful organisms.
- Newer ships have to use ballast water control systems that treat the water with chemicals to remove organisms.
- Older ships ought to exchange ballast water with deep ocean water before getting into ports.
Source: The Indian Express