The World Bank has approved a new programme to support coastal communities in India by conserving ecosystems, reducing plastic pollution and creating jobs for 100,000 people in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

The $212.64 million (around Rs 1.77 billion) Strengthening Coastal Resilience and the Economy (SHORE) project is part of the $850 million (around Rs 7.08 billion) SHORE programme launched by the World Bank to address challenges faced by coastal populations.

India has a coastline stretching over 11,000 km, with one-third vulnerable to erosion and extreme climate events. Approximately 250 million people rely on coastal areas for their livelihoods. The coastline is home to 18,000 known species of flora and fauna, providing vital economic opportunities and income sources for coastal communities.

However, marine ecosystems are increasingly at risk due to coastal erosion, pollution, intensive fishing, mangrove forest degradation and urban pressures.

“In Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, the project will support the coastal management plans of the two states by helping 100,000 people through enhanced knowledge, skill development and by leveraging funds for government agencies and local communities,” a World Bank press release said on Wednesday.

The programme will also train 70,000 people, including women, in sectors such as sustainable tourism to develop new income streams.

World Bank’s Acting Country Director for India, Paul Procee, said, “India’s Vision 2030 has recognised the potential of the blue economy to drive its economic growth. This project will help states tap into private sector sources to mitigate the impacts of plastic pollution and foster eco-tourism in selected areas.”

“For example, private sector intervention can help strengthen plastic waste value chains and establish environmentally friendly beaches while also creating economic opportunities for coastal communities,” he added.

The project will also assist the two states in conserving 30,000 hectares of seascapes through initiatives such as mangrove planting and sand dune restoration, the press release noted.