(a) the details of ocean activities undertaken near Gujarat coast during each of the last three years;
(b) the details of the outcome thereof;
(c) whether the pace of underwater exploration activities have slowed down during the said
period;
(d) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(e) the steps taken or proposed to be taken by the Government for exploration of underwater
activities in the ocean ?
MINISTER FOR OCEAN DEVELOPMENT (DR. MURLI MANOHAR JOSHI)
(a), (b) & (e) The details of some of the ocean activities undertaken are given below:
- Monitoring of marine pollution in the coastal waters of Gujarat covering Kandla, Vadinar, Okha,
Dwarka, Porbandar, Veraval, Hazira, Pipav, Mindoli and Jafrabad. Coastal waters beyond 2 kms off
the coast are clean.
- Information on Potential Fishing Zones derived from Satellite Observation provided to the coastal
fishermen through 13 nodal points spread over Gujarat coast. The fishermen of Gujarat are utilising
the information in their fishing activity.
- Surveys undertaken for locating minerals have indicated the presence of high grade lime mud deposit
in water depths of 180 to 1200 meters, phosphatised sediments in water depths 200 to 1000, oolitues
and calcareous sand in water depths of 50 to 200 meters.
- For development of coastal marine fishery, reimbursement of Central Excise Duty on HSD oil supplied
to mechanised fishing vessels below 20 metre length and motorisation of traditional craft for
technological upgradation of traditional fishing sector.
- Marine archaeological research off Dwarka, Bet Dwarka and Somnath. The work is progressing.
(c) No, Sir.
(d) Does not arise.