Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has raised significant objections to the Great Nicobar Island mega project, asserting that it will lead to 'ecological havoc' due to insufficient environmental assessments. In a letter to Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ramesh criticized the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for relying on a 'single seasonal cycle' for data collection, thereby violating established guidelines for coastal ecosystems. He pointed out that the EIA report was merely a 'rapid reconnaissance study' and emphasized the need for comprehensive studies over multiple seasons. Ramesh also highlighted concerns regarding the transparency of the project review process, calling for the public release of the High-Powered Committee report. He warned that the narrative surrounding the project is shifting from environmental justification to a focus on strategic necessity, arguing that the project is primarily commercial and could destroy vital habitats. The government promotes the project as a means to enhance national security and reduce reliance on foreign ports, featuring a transshipment terminal and a new airport.