India set to unveil its first Coral Research Centre in the Andamans

India will get its first Coral Research Centre in Andamans (Image: Canva)

India will launch its first dedicated coral research centre soon. The facility will be located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Officials will say the centre will advance marine conservation nationwide. It will aim to protect reefs threatened by warming and pollution.

The new centre will support India’s coral science ambitions effectively. It will help researchers monitor fragile reefs across the Indian coastline. The Andamans will offer ideal conditions for long-term marine observations. Officials will stress its role in safeguarding vital underwater habitats.

The complex will include advanced labs for coral restoration studies. It will house equipment for monitoring bleaching and disease trends. Scientists will be able to analyse water chemistry with improved precision. The centre will also provide controlled tanks for experimental reef research.

India’s reefs will face severe risks from repeated marine heatwaves. Rising temperatures will trigger widespread bleaching events more frequently. Pollution and sedimentation will further weaken stressed reef ecosystems. The centre will aim to document these threats in real time.

Researchers will previously have lacked dedicated reef-support infrastructure nationwide. This centre will offer continuous logistical support for diving teams. It will ensure safer operations during remote underwater fieldwork expeditions. Training programmes will develop new marine science professionals.

Coral reefs will continue protecting coastlines and supporting marine biodiversity. They will serve as nurseries for many commercially important fish. The centre will help restore damaged reefs using proven techniques. Officials will state this will boost ecological stability across regions.

Experts will believe the centre will mark a major conservation turning point. Its long-term data will guide national policy on reef protection. Collaborations with global marine institutions will already be planned. India will hope to build stronger resilience against climate impacts.