The World Bank has approved a new program aimed at supporting coastal communities in India, focusing on the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The initiative, called the Strengthening Coastal Resilience and the Economy (SHORE) Project, will provide $212.64 million as part of a broader $850 million SHORE Program.
India's coastline extends over 11,000 kilometers, with about one-third facing risks from erosion and extreme climate events. Around 250 million people rely on these coastal areas for their livelihoods in sectors such as fisheries, transport, and tourism. The region is also home to about 18,000 species of plants and animals that contribute to local economies. However, marine ecosystems are threatened by factors including erosion, pollution, overfishing, loss of mangrove forests, and urban development.
The SHORE Project aims to address these challenges by helping Tamil Nadu and Karnataka implement their coastal zone management plans. It will support 100,000 people through knowledge enhancement and skill development initiatives while leveraging funds for government agencies and local communities. In addition, 70,000 people—including women—will receive training in sustainable tourism to create new income opportunities.
“India’s Vision 2030 has recognized the potential of the blue economy to power its economic growth,” said Paul Procee, the World Bank’s Acting Country Director for India. “This Project will help states tap into private sector sources to mitigate the impacts of plastic pollution and to foster eco-tourism in selected areas. For example, private sector intervention can help to strengthen plastic waste value chains and establish environment-friendly beaches while also creating economic opportunities for coastal communities.”
Conservation efforts under the project include restoring 30,000 hectares of seascapes in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka through mangrove planting and sand dune restoration using both green methods and infrastructure like breakwaters where needed. The project will also focus on protecting coral reefs and species such as dugongs, turtles, and birds.
“In 2019, Tamil Nadu was the first state in India to ban single-use plastics. This Project will enhance measures in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka through public awareness campaigns on recycling and plastics leakage, as well as bridging the gap between urban local bodies and the private sector for solid waste management in cities. Reducing plastic pollution will benefit 120,000 people,” said Dinesh Aryal, Chabungbam Singh, and Avanish Kant, the Task Team Leaders for the Program.
The funding comes from a loan provided by the International Bank of Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), with a final maturity period of 23 years that includes a grace period of six-and-a-half years.