Status of Oil Pollution in Indian Coastal Waters

Abstract

India's 8118 km long coastline is noted by the presence of a vast network of backwaters, estuaries, creeks, lagoons, mangrove and coral reefs. The total area of mangroves in India is estimated to be 4827 km2 that includes the Indian side of Sunderbans, the world's largest mangroves centre. More than 5,OUO species of marine flora and fauna have been recorded so far from the coastal and marine waters of the country. In this background, there is an urge to protect and conserve the coastal and marine habitats by making all man-made production activities sustainable. The beaches and the adjoining land area are the most affected as these are extensively used for recreation, relaxation and amusement