Management  of Ballast Water

Syllabus :GS 3/Environment 

In News

• Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department (WRD)  observed  that Kamarajar Port is the main reason for the spread of the invasive species by not regulating the ballast water from ships.

About 

• Tamil Nadu’s Water Resources Department (WRD) is seeking ₹160 crore from Kamarajar Port to address the invasive charru mussel (Mytella strigata) problem.
  • The mussel disrupts marine ecosystems and affects fisher boat movements.

About Ballast Water 

• Ballast water is seawater taken on board ships to maintain stability and immersion. 
• It is pumped in when cargo is unloaded and pumped out when cargo is loaded.

Utility 

• Used for stability and maneuverability of ships during voyages.
• Helps when ships are empty, lightly loaded, or need more stability due to rough seas.
• Adds weight to ensure the ship can pass under bridges and structures.

Emerging Issues 

• Ballast water can carry invasive species, leading to ecological damage.
  • There have been hundreds of invasions due to ballast water, often with severe ecological impacts.
  •  In India, around 30 invasive species have been recorded, with the charru mussel being particularly harmful.

Global Regulations

• The Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention, effective from September 8, 2017, requires ships to manage ballast water to prevent the spread of harmful organisms. Ships must treat ballast water or exchange it with oceanic water before discharge.
  • Countries like Australia and New Zealand rigorously enforce ballast water regulations to protect their ecosystems, such as the Great Barrier Reef.

India’s Position: 

• India has not signed the BWM Convention, meaning there are no specific regulations or checks for ballast water discharge at Indian ports. Indian ports are not responsible for regulating ballast water.
• Under current Indian law, ports are not liable for invasive species caused by ballast water. Ship owners may be held responsible if regulations were in place.

Conclusion and Way Forward 

•  It is suggested that India should adopt the BWM Convention
•  Ships must manage their ballast water according to the BWM Convention to prevent the spread of harmful organisms.
• Newer ships must use ballast water management systems that treat the water with chemicals to remove organisms.
•  Older ships must exchange ballast water with deep ocean water before entering ports.

Source:TH