The Central government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $42 million loan agreement to bolster coastal and riverbank protection in Maharashtra. This initiative aims to enhance the resilience of coastal communities and ecosystems by employing hybrid approaches, such as offshore reefs, rock protection works, and nature-based solutions like beach and dune nourishment. Advanced technologies, including remote sensing and climate change impact predictions, will improve shoreline management while addressing issues in tourism and fisheries sectors.
Key Objectives
Combating Coastal Erosion: The project will integrate hybrid approaches to stabilize Maharashtra’s coastline, such as offshore reefs and beach nourishment.
Enhanced Resilience: Tourism and fishery sectors, crucial for local livelihoods, will benefit from measures addressing erosion and flooding.
Community Inclusion: Increased participation of women, youth, and vulnerable groups will strengthen disaster preparedness and response.
Capacity Building
Institutional Strengthening: A coastal infrastructure management unit will be established under the Maharashtra Maritime Board to ensure effective shore management planning.
Stakeholder Training: ADB will train stakeholders on gender equality, coastal management, and livelihood development to ensure sustainable outcomes.
Linked Initiatives
This project builds on ADB’s earlier investments and aligns with broader efforts, such as the Nagpur Metro Rail Phase II, where ADB committed $200 million. Maharashtra’s developmental projects continue to integrate climate resilience and sustainable growth strategies for long-term benefits.
Summary of the news
| Why in News | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Government of India and ADB signed a $42 million loan agreement for Maharashtra coastal protection project | – Loan amount: $42 million – Focus: Coastal and riverbank protection in Maharashtra – Aim: Enhance resilience of coastal communities and ecosystems – Incorporates hybrid approaches like offshore reefs and beach nourishment – Uses advanced technology to predict climate change impacts |
| State Involved | Maharashtra |
| Project Name | Maharashtra Sustainable Climate-Resilient Coastal Protection and Management Project |
| Key Strategies | – Offshore reefs – Rock protection works – Beach and dune nourishment (nature-based solutions) – Remote sensing satellite imagery for improved shoreline management |
| Beneficiaries | – Coastal communities – Tourism and fishery sectors – Vulnerable groups (women, youth) |
| Institutional Support | Maharashtra Maritime Board (Coastal infrastructure management unit) |
| Loan Agreement Signatories | – Juhi Mukherjee (Govt. of India) – Mio Oka (ADB) |
| Additional Project Details | – Focus on climate change, sea-level rise, and extreme weather predictions |
| ADB’s Previous Investment | Builds on earlier ADB investments in Maharashtra’s coastal resilience efforts |
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