The environment impact study for Nicobar project minimizes seismic hazards.

The Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project (GNIP)’s Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) study downplays the risk of future earthquakes triggering tsunamis, despite suggestions of limited on-ground scientific assessments.

• The EIA report, commissioned by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation, reveals a “low” probability of a mega earthquake, such as the 9.2 magnitude earthquake that led to the 2004 tragedy.

• The study primarily draws on a 2019 study by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Kanpur, which states that the “return period” for megaearthquakes is 420–750 years for megaearthquakes (magnitude of 9 or more), and 80-120 years for large-magnitude earthquakes (>7.5).

• The study does not include a 2,000-year gap in the region’s sediment history, which could add uncertainty to future earthquake predictions.

• The study suggests that planners of major infrastructure projects in the Nicobar Islands should conduct a “sitespecific study” to avoid potential earthquakes.

• The GNIP project, which includes a transshipment port, an international airport, township development, and a 450 megavolt-Amperes (MVA) gas and solar-based power plant, is subject to a “calculated risk” due to the geo-dynamic area and potential loss of biodiversity and impact on resident tribes.