Friends of Aldabra has raised concerns following President Patrick Herminie’s announcement that India will assist Seychelles in building a coast guard base on Assomption Island. The group said the development has triggered many questions.
The organisation announced plans to produce a video on the issue. It also invited the public to submit questions that need answers.
Questions over size, environment and transparency
Friends of Aldabra outlined several concerns about the proposed project. The group called for clarity on the scale, environmental safeguards and public access to information.
The questions include:
- How large will the base be, and how many personnel will be stationed there?
- Will an Environmental Impact Assessment be carried out to protect Assomption’s wildlife?
- Will the one-year biodiversity assessment of Assomption Island be completed before construction begins?
- How will the project affect the current hotel development?
- Will the public have the opportunity to review the plans before approval?
Public reactions on social media
Meanwhile, several individuals responded to the group’s post online. Some questioned foreign involvement. Others raised concerns about transparency and long-term implications.
Nanette Esparon wrote:
“And WHY ?? Why do we need India’s interference in our surveillance”
Trevor Roberts said:
“Friends of Aldabra.. stop playing the ‘naive’ card.. let’s call things as they are.. you guys were used as a political propaganda tool.. you found out the truth when you went for the visit and then tried to save face with childish arguments..now saying ‘India is helping Seychelles’ with coast guard base is another propaganda you are enabling… be real!! Wake up!! This will end up a full military/navy base and will be occupied by foreigners.. let’s see how you guys come up with reasons why a military base is better than Eco villas And at what cost ????”
Tim Ecott added:
“It shouldn’t matter how large the base will be. India should not be there.”
Discussion continues
The issue continues to generate debate online. Friends of Aldabra said it will compile questions from the public and address them in its upcoming video.
No further details about the project have been released.