I have neglected Kutch due to my interest in the Orissan dispute and must put this right. A similar conflict is developing as I forecast in my recent book. Adani, the owner developers of Mundra port, have been found guilty of a number of environmental violations including damage to the mangrove forests with consequent soil erosion. In September last year Central Government set up the small Nairain Committee to look into these violations and others that are developing this area.

The recommendations have been published and my own simplified interpetation is that it proposes an “Environmental Restoration Fund”. It is not clear whether this is a ring-fenced fund financed by violaters. It seems that Rs 200 crore could be paid by the Adani Group for their past sins and others may pay one per cent of the project cost. Neither is it clear if the money would be used to repair previous damage or start a fund for future damage. It could be just a tax on development which would be passed on to the consumer.

I have not found any reference to the many fishermen and coastal families that have lost their livelihood. This has to be part of the equation.

Surely what is needed is a fine that is sufficient to repair current damage and effective legal sanctions for those that do not comply with legitimate consents. Once the damage is done it is very hard and costly to restore. So a balance has to be struck that will protect the environment yet allow the economy to grow.

It seems to me that the Nairain Committee has come up with some good ideas. It needs support and any laws that may result must be enforced vigorously.