Corporate Social Irresponsibility - Indian Sundarbans Delta

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There have been a lot of challenges posed by high population growth, development constraints, climate change impacts, conservation imperatives, recurring disasters and the impact on humans. And, gravity of the challenges have not been fully understood and acknowledged. Early, proactive, highly informed and bold changes in policy and governance are required to cope with pressures of predictive changes.

WWF, with other experts is suggesting the – Indian Sundarbans Delta in 2050: A Vision - for stimulating reasoned public discussions. The Vision 2050 scenario is indicative and aims at improved quality of life of the human population with reduced threats from extreme events and restoration of the ecosystem. The Vision envisages four phases by 2050.

Phase I

Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve could be made a separate district with special status. Demarcate areas within Biosphere District by ‘Green Line’ where development is unsustainable and ecological restoration is essential. Restrict land transfer within the Green Line (not a new idea – such restrictions were enforced during the third and fourth decade of the 20th century). Provide economic opportunities and encourage people to graduate to geographical areas where future development is sustainable and possible

Phase II

Physical infrastructure has to be developed in Biosphere district outside the ‘green line’ with current and predicted sea level rise and high intensity events to be taken in account. Newly developed places to preferentially provide secure housing and opportunities for human capital development and off-farm/livelihoods is another part of this phase

Phase III

Engage the population within the ‘green line’ to adopt opportunities in the newly developed areas in the Biosphere District. Provide strong financial offsets for land holdings in critical areas. Provide for enhancement of human, social, financial and physical capital. A major focus should be on higher education.

Phase IV

As the population migrates to the newly developed areas due to enhanced opportunities, vacated area is restored to mangrove forest and future investments to focus on ecosystem restoration. [pic 10][pic 11]

Way Forward

This is a work in progress and to be effective following next steps are needed:

- Cost-benefit analysis of suggestion action vs business as casual (which is currently underway)

- Sharing and dialogue on the vision among key decision makers

- Wider consultation with the population of the Sundarbans on their vision of future