Setu channel: Kannagi’s curse anniversary on inaugural day; project misses deadline.
Thanks to Commander Unninathan for the brilliant note. It is Kannagi's curse anniversary indeed. Kannagi, the Tamil divinity will NOT allow the desiccation of Sethusamudram with a project which is a nautical folly and a mariner's nightmare. Maa Kannagi will take care of the welfare of the people of Bharatam, of the coastal people through marine economic zones and development of deep-sea container ports at Kochi and Vizhinjam to link up with the mainland through container-rail-coordination.
namaskaram. kalyanaraman
Commander GVK Unnithan September 12th, 2008 9:59 am :
The deadline was unilaterally decided by the Min of Shipping resulting from a wishful thinking. Infact the Shipping Ministry had boasted that the inaguration will take place on 8th of Oct 2008 ! None of the predicton considered the ground realities. The saving of the 424/785/30 syndrome is not at all practical. May be 12-18 hours would be gained at a very heavy cost. Has any one in the maritime industry or a professional shipper ok ed the project? None. It is a poitical canal for swindling the public money and adding one more name in the list of sick PSUs. Even if the courts clear it and the canal is opened, only coastal vessels can use it due to depth restrictions as no ocean going cargo ship/ oil tanker will use it as it is economically unviable. Added to this was the various govt officials concerned were working at cross purpose resulting embarassment to the govt at least more than twice. The inaguration of the Project has taken place on the very same day, when Kannagi cursed the city of Madurai for killing her husband Kovilan ( Shilappathikaram by Elango Adigal). Then how is the project going to materialise?
http://www.sindhtoday.net/south-asia/20000.htm#comment-1500
Sethusamudram channel project likely to miss deadline
Sep 12th, 2008 | By Sindh Today
New Delhi, Sep 12 (IANS) The controversial Sethusamudram ship channel to link India’s eastern and western coasts to avoid a 785-km detour around Sri Lanka is expected to overshoot its October deadline, as petitions against it are still pending in courts and only 25 percent of the work has been completed, officials said here.
The Rs.242.7 billion ($6 billion) project aims to create a 167-km-long navigable channel to link the Gulf of Mannar with the Bay of Bengal via Adam’s Bridge, Palk Bay and Palk Strait between India and neighbouring Sri Lanka.
‘As of now, nearly 25 percent physical progress has been achieved. Efforts are on to expedite the execution. But meeting the October deadline does not seem possible,’ said a senior official in the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (S&PI).
The ministry oversees the implementation of major central sector projects related to several fields like atomic energy, power, railways, shipping, roads and highways.
The Sethusamudram project was sanctioned in June 2005. It was the first major shipping infrastructure project Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s government sanctioned after assuming office in April 2004.
The Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways is implementing the project with the active participation of Tuticorin Port Trust (TPT).
‘The delay was inevitable in view of several litigations in the Madras High Court and even the Supreme Court. Two precious years were lost in riding out all these hurdles,’ the official, who requested anonymity, told IANS.
Said a senior official of Sethusamudram Corporation Ltd (SCL): ‘The dredging is going on at the Palk Bay side. Whether the deadline is met or not depends upon the court’s (Supreme Court) final verdict.’
‘It is a good project, and will help the country in furthering trade interests. We will save a lot of time, energy and money once the channel gets operational,’ the official told IANS on phone from Chennai.
At present ships cannot use the channel, partly because of the sand stone reef called Adam’s bridge at Pamban, near Rameswaram, where the depth of the sea is hardly 11 feet.
When completed, the channel will save nearly 424 nautical miles or 785 km and around 30 hours of sailing time for ships navigating between India’s east and west coasts.
The project ran into controversy soon after the central government decided to start the work with several organisations including the country’s main opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) opposing the channel.
They claimed that the channel would destroy the bridge now called Adam’s Bridge. The epic Ramayana says the bridge was built by the army of Lord Ram on its way to Lanka for the battle with Ravan and the rescue of Sita.
The project has also raised the hackles of some environmentalists who say the shoals form a unique ecosystem that will be destroyed by the dredging, while the sand being dredged from the spot and being dumped in the seabed elsewhere will also destroy a lot of marine life.
The centre has, however, in an affidavit to the Supreme Court termed the opposition to the project as ‘misconceived’ and ‘unsubstantiated’ and asked the court to ‘refrain from interdicting’.
http://www.sindhtoday.net/?s=sethusamudram
Friday, September 12, 2008
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Setu Project (SSCP) -- an exercise in futility (Pioneer, Sept. 7, 2008)
Setu Project (SSCP) -- an exercise in futility (Pioneer, Sept. 7, 2008)
This is supposed to be a navigation channel in mid-ocean.
Capt. Balakrishnan with considerable experience in the Indian Navy has established that this channel does not make nautical sense, that this is a nautical folly and a nautical disaster waiting to happen. Thanks to Capt. Balakrishnan for a lucid analysis and incisive presentation; it is clearly seen that the Setusamudram Corpn. will be an ab initio sick unit, be in the red to the tune of Rs. 500 crores per year in perpetuity and will be a burden on the tax-payers of India.
Why not simply scrap the Setu project and look for alternatives such as Marine Economic Zone to benefit the coastal people along 8500 kms. of Indian coastline and improve India's foreign exchange income from marine exports from a vast 200 kms. ocean zone from the Indian coast and look for effective rail-port-container coordination arrangements from Kochi port?
http://setubandha.blogspot.com/2008/09/setu-project-sscp-exercise-in-futility.html
Dr. S. Kalyanaraman
An exercise in futility
Broadsweep: Not only does the Sethusamudram project hurt religious sentiments, it also does not make economic and maritime sense. Swati Das reports on a study that emphasises the pointlessness of this controversial project
Much has been said about the distance and time the Sethusamudram Ship Canal Project (SSCP) would save for mariners once the 148-year-old dream is fulfilled. But Capt (Retd) H Balakrishnan of the Indian Navy, who specialises in underwater warfare, has done a series of studies, purely on the maritime point of view.
"Time is at hand to cease thinking about sending ships in harm's way, the SSCP's way," Capt Balakrishnan said in his analysis.
The Supreme Court instructed the Centre to find an alternative to the SSCP-proposed Alignment 6, to cut through Adam's Bridge or Ramar Sethu -- Alignment 4. An expert committee headed by Dr RK Pachauri, Nobel Prize-winning head of the UN climate change committee and director-general of the New Delhi-based The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), has been formed to study the alternative alignment between Dhanushkodi and Land's End on Rameswaram Island. This is 600 yards to the west of the start of Adam's Bridge.
Assuming that the length and depth of the canal is the same for Alignment 6 and 4, Capt Balakrishnan comes up with the following observations, which may be more or less same for all proposed alignments.
· Kolkata to Tuticorin, circumnavigating Sri Lanka, is 1,380 nautical miles (nm), while via SSCP new alignment is 1005nm. Voyage time circumnavigating Sri Lanka at 12 knots comes to 115 hours (h), while via the SSCP at 12 knots in open sea (75.08h) and 8 knots through SSCP (13h) is 88.08 h. And if the speed is slower through SSCP -- 6 knots -- the total voyage time becomes 92.38h. So the distance saved is 375 nm, and time saved is 26.92h while travelling at 8 knots, and 22.62h while travelling at 6 knots. With one hour each for pilot embarkation/ disembarkation the time saved would reduce by another two hours for each.
· For fuel costs as per IOC tariffs at Chennai (on March 1, 2008) taken at an average of 1 metric ton (MT) per hour of motoring, the heavy oil (HO) would be (Rs 27,313 + 4% VAT) Rs 28,405.5 per MT. High speed diesel (HSD) (Rs 27,384 +23.43% VAT) would be 33,800 per MT.
· Fuel consumption circumnavigating Sri Lanka (HO) is 115MT, while through SSCP at 8 knots is 75.08MT of HO and 14 MT of HSD. And at 6 knots the economics is 75.08 for HO and 18.3 for HSD.
· The voyage fuel cost for circumnavigating Sri Lanka (HO) comes to Rs 32,66,632.50. Fuel costs through SSCP at 8 knots come to Rs 26,05,884.94. Navigation at 6 knots will cost Rs 27,51,224. Hence, savings in fuel costs through SSCP while travelling at 8 knots is Rs 6,60,747.56 and at 6 knots is Rs 5,15,407.56.
· The 50 per cent of cost savings for 8 knots is Rs 3,30,373.78, and for 6 knots is Rs 2,57,703.78. The SSCP Committee of Eminent Persons states that a tariff rate at 50 per cent of savings has been proposed, in base case internal rate of return (IRR), such a situation has been avoided. Based on this, the tariff to be levied per ship works out to Rs 3.89 lakhs in the first year of operation of the SSCP.
"If 50% of the fuel costs savings were to be levied as tariff for using the SSCP, then evidently the SSCP will incur a loss in its first year of operation itself and continue through the remaining years of its existence. However, if tariff rates for using the SSCP were to be brought in line with that charged by the major ports in India, then the shipping companies will incur a loss. It is therefore safe to conclude that none of the proposed alignments will prove to be economical if 50 per cent of the savings in fuel costs were to be levied as tariff," noted Capt Balakrishnan.
On navigation safety under various climatic conditions, Capt Balakrishnan found that in the waters around Rameswaram, according to the Bay of Bengal Pilot, the wind is of a swirling nature, and at the same time, on account of the Venturi effect, because of geographical location, the wind velocity tends to be high. Even a depression near the Orissa coast can create wind speeds of 55 kmph, especially at Alignment 4 where land may have to be cut.
If the winds were to blow along the axis of the proposed channel, navigating would not be hampered. But, if the winds blow across the axis of the channel, the ships will drift away from their course. The larger the ships, the more rapid the drift. The only way to check this is with speed. But speed in shallow waters can make ships run aground. Deploying tugs to counter the drift will only increase the overall voyage time, fuel consumption and fuel cost.
All the proposed alignments of the SSCP pass through fishing grounds. The high density of fishing vessels in the Rameswaram-Kachatheevu Island axis is already worrying the Navy and Coast Guard. If nets coil around the propeller shaft of a ship, it warrants emergency procedures.
During wars too, the SSCP would be a sitting duck. The LTTE even specialises in mine warfare, Capt Balakrishnan reminds us.
The SSCP is an open channel unlike the Suez and Panama canals. For a 30,000 DWT bulk carrier, approaching within 10 nautical miles of land is not considered prudent navigation when on passage. Yet, in Alignment 4, the vessel approaches within 3.5 nautical miles of the Kodandaramaswami Temple.
"From the standpoint of navigational safety, the area of location of the SSCP is a cause for disquiet. Viewed against this backdrop, one is left wondering whether this shipping channel is meant to cater to the needs of shipping in its entirety or whether shipping is meant to cater to the needs of the channel," said Capt Balakrishnan.
The six alignments
· The Sir A Ramaswamy Mudaliyar Committee in 1956 contemplated a 26 feet draft land canal across Mandapam at a cost of Rs 1.8 crore, but the idea was not feasible.
· Shipping and Transport Secretary Nagendra Singh's committee in 1964 suggested a 30 feet draft (at a cost of Rs 37.46 crore) though Rameswaram, near Thangachimadam. But dredging and other activities were considered cumbersome.
· In 1981, Development Advisor (Ports) HR Lakshminarayan's committee, considering the concerns of pilgrims, suggested an alignment farther east cutting Dhanushkodi, west of Kodandaramamasamy Temple, across the narrow land strip.
· In 1994, M/s Pallavan Transport Consultancy Services Ltd (PTCS), a State undertaking, modified the Laxminarayan Committee alignment taking it further east into Dhanushkodi.
· In February 1997, Tuticorin Port Trust, as the nodal agency for the project, and the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur, in the initial environmental examination (IEE) of the project, recommended an alignment east of Kothandaramasamy temple to cause least damage to the biota and the environment.
· In 2000-06, the Sethusamudram Ship Channel Project -- which was the sixth alignment -- was mooted. The alignment was more than 20 km from Shingle Island in the Gulf of Mannar near Dhanuskodi. It runs parallel to the Indo-Sri Lankan Medial Line. The total length of the channel is 167km. It is 12m deep and 300m wide at the bottom. It has two legs -- one in the north of Adam's Bridge where the average depth is only about 3 meters, and one in the Palk Strait, where the average depth is about 6 to 8m. In the Gulf of Mannar and other stretches in Palk Bay, the channel will utilise the natural depth already available. This project was inaugurated on July 2, 2005. Dredging began on December 11, 2006.
2005. Dredging began on December 11, 2006.
http://www.dailypioneer.com/agenda1.asp?main_variable=sundaypioneer%2Fassignment&file_name=assign1%2Etxt&counter_img=1
This is supposed to be a navigation channel in mid-ocean.
Capt. Balakrishnan with considerable experience in the Indian Navy has established that this channel does not make nautical sense, that this is a nautical folly and a nautical disaster waiting to happen. Thanks to Capt. Balakrishnan for a lucid analysis and incisive presentation; it is clearly seen that the Setusamudram Corpn. will be an ab initio sick unit, be in the red to the tune of Rs. 500 crores per year in perpetuity and will be a burden on the tax-payers of India.
Why not simply scrap the Setu project and look for alternatives such as Marine Economic Zone to benefit the coastal people along 8500 kms. of Indian coastline and improve India's foreign exchange income from marine exports from a vast 200 kms. ocean zone from the Indian coast and look for effective rail-port-container coordination arrangements from Kochi port?
http://setubandha.blogspot.com/2008/09/setu-project-sscp-exercise-in-futility.html
Dr. S. Kalyanaraman
An exercise in futility
Broadsweep: Not only does the Sethusamudram project hurt religious sentiments, it also does not make economic and maritime sense. Swati Das reports on a study that emphasises the pointlessness of this controversial project
Much has been said about the distance and time the Sethusamudram Ship Canal Project (SSCP) would save for mariners once the 148-year-old dream is fulfilled. But Capt (Retd) H Balakrishnan of the Indian Navy, who specialises in underwater warfare, has done a series of studies, purely on the maritime point of view.
"Time is at hand to cease thinking about sending ships in harm's way, the SSCP's way," Capt Balakrishnan said in his analysis.
The Supreme Court instructed the Centre to find an alternative to the SSCP-proposed Alignment 6, to cut through Adam's Bridge or Ramar Sethu -- Alignment 4. An expert committee headed by Dr RK Pachauri, Nobel Prize-winning head of the UN climate change committee and director-general of the New Delhi-based The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), has been formed to study the alternative alignment between Dhanushkodi and Land's End on Rameswaram Island. This is 600 yards to the west of the start of Adam's Bridge.
Assuming that the length and depth of the canal is the same for Alignment 6 and 4, Capt Balakrishnan comes up with the following observations, which may be more or less same for all proposed alignments.
· Kolkata to Tuticorin, circumnavigating Sri Lanka, is 1,380 nautical miles (nm), while via SSCP new alignment is 1005nm. Voyage time circumnavigating Sri Lanka at 12 knots comes to 115 hours (h), while via the SSCP at 12 knots in open sea (75.08h) and 8 knots through SSCP (13h) is 88.08 h. And if the speed is slower through SSCP -- 6 knots -- the total voyage time becomes 92.38h. So the distance saved is 375 nm, and time saved is 26.92h while travelling at 8 knots, and 22.62h while travelling at 6 knots. With one hour each for pilot embarkation/ disembarkation the time saved would reduce by another two hours for each.
· For fuel costs as per IOC tariffs at Chennai (on March 1, 2008) taken at an average of 1 metric ton (MT) per hour of motoring, the heavy oil (HO) would be (Rs 27,313 + 4% VAT) Rs 28,405.5 per MT. High speed diesel (HSD) (Rs 27,384 +23.43% VAT) would be 33,800 per MT.
· Fuel consumption circumnavigating Sri Lanka (HO) is 115MT, while through SSCP at 8 knots is 75.08MT of HO and 14 MT of HSD. And at 6 knots the economics is 75.08 for HO and 18.3 for HSD.
· The voyage fuel cost for circumnavigating Sri Lanka (HO) comes to Rs 32,66,632.50. Fuel costs through SSCP at 8 knots come to Rs 26,05,884.94. Navigation at 6 knots will cost Rs 27,51,224. Hence, savings in fuel costs through SSCP while travelling at 8 knots is Rs 6,60,747.56 and at 6 knots is Rs 5,15,407.56.
· The 50 per cent of cost savings for 8 knots is Rs 3,30,373.78, and for 6 knots is Rs 2,57,703.78. The SSCP Committee of Eminent Persons states that a tariff rate at 50 per cent of savings has been proposed, in base case internal rate of return (IRR), such a situation has been avoided. Based on this, the tariff to be levied per ship works out to Rs 3.89 lakhs in the first year of operation of the SSCP.
"If 50% of the fuel costs savings were to be levied as tariff for using the SSCP, then evidently the SSCP will incur a loss in its first year of operation itself and continue through the remaining years of its existence. However, if tariff rates for using the SSCP were to be brought in line with that charged by the major ports in India, then the shipping companies will incur a loss. It is therefore safe to conclude that none of the proposed alignments will prove to be economical if 50 per cent of the savings in fuel costs were to be levied as tariff," noted Capt Balakrishnan.
On navigation safety under various climatic conditions, Capt Balakrishnan found that in the waters around Rameswaram, according to the Bay of Bengal Pilot, the wind is of a swirling nature, and at the same time, on account of the Venturi effect, because of geographical location, the wind velocity tends to be high. Even a depression near the Orissa coast can create wind speeds of 55 kmph, especially at Alignment 4 where land may have to be cut.
If the winds were to blow along the axis of the proposed channel, navigating would not be hampered. But, if the winds blow across the axis of the channel, the ships will drift away from their course. The larger the ships, the more rapid the drift. The only way to check this is with speed. But speed in shallow waters can make ships run aground. Deploying tugs to counter the drift will only increase the overall voyage time, fuel consumption and fuel cost.
All the proposed alignments of the SSCP pass through fishing grounds. The high density of fishing vessels in the Rameswaram-Kachatheevu Island axis is already worrying the Navy and Coast Guard. If nets coil around the propeller shaft of a ship, it warrants emergency procedures.
During wars too, the SSCP would be a sitting duck. The LTTE even specialises in mine warfare, Capt Balakrishnan reminds us.
The SSCP is an open channel unlike the Suez and Panama canals. For a 30,000 DWT bulk carrier, approaching within 10 nautical miles of land is not considered prudent navigation when on passage. Yet, in Alignment 4, the vessel approaches within 3.5 nautical miles of the Kodandaramaswami Temple.
"From the standpoint of navigational safety, the area of location of the SSCP is a cause for disquiet. Viewed against this backdrop, one is left wondering whether this shipping channel is meant to cater to the needs of shipping in its entirety or whether shipping is meant to cater to the needs of the channel," said Capt Balakrishnan.
The six alignments
· The Sir A Ramaswamy Mudaliyar Committee in 1956 contemplated a 26 feet draft land canal across Mandapam at a cost of Rs 1.8 crore, but the idea was not feasible.
· Shipping and Transport Secretary Nagendra Singh's committee in 1964 suggested a 30 feet draft (at a cost of Rs 37.46 crore) though Rameswaram, near Thangachimadam. But dredging and other activities were considered cumbersome.
· In 1981, Development Advisor (Ports) HR Lakshminarayan's committee, considering the concerns of pilgrims, suggested an alignment farther east cutting Dhanushkodi, west of Kodandaramamasamy Temple, across the narrow land strip.
· In 1994, M/s Pallavan Transport Consultancy Services Ltd (PTCS), a State undertaking, modified the Laxminarayan Committee alignment taking it further east into Dhanushkodi.
· In February 1997, Tuticorin Port Trust, as the nodal agency for the project, and the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur, in the initial environmental examination (IEE) of the project, recommended an alignment east of Kothandaramasamy temple to cause least damage to the biota and the environment.
· In 2000-06, the Sethusamudram Ship Channel Project -- which was the sixth alignment -- was mooted. The alignment was more than 20 km from Shingle Island in the Gulf of Mannar near Dhanuskodi. It runs parallel to the Indo-Sri Lankan Medial Line. The total length of the channel is 167km. It is 12m deep and 300m wide at the bottom. It has two legs -- one in the north of Adam's Bridge where the average depth is only about 3 meters, and one in the Palk Strait, where the average depth is about 6 to 8m. In the Gulf of Mannar and other stretches in Palk Bay, the channel will utilise the natural depth already available. This project was inaugurated on July 2, 2005. Dredging began on December 11, 2006.
2005. Dredging began on December 11, 2006.
http://www.dailypioneer.com/agenda1.asp?main_variable=sundaypioneer%2Fassignment&file_name=assign1%2Etxt&counter_img=1
Monday, September 1, 2008
Setu channel project: New alignment navigational hazard -- Capt. Balakrishnan
Setu channel project: New alignment a navigational hazard -- Capt. Balakrishnan
"New alignment unfavourable: Expert"(pp-5) by Kumar Chellappan (28 Aug. 2008, Deccan Chronicle, Chennai)
CHENNAI, AUG. 27: " The new alignment proposed for the Sethusamudram Shipping Channel Project (SSCP) is no better in terms of economy and environmental protection. Even after different permutations and combinations, this project is destined to be doomed because it does not make any sense", veteran navigator Captain Hariharan Balakrishnan has observed reacting to the suggestions made by the Supreme Court to the union government to find out the possibility of a new alignment for the controversial SSCP.
Capt. Balakrishnan said that the Bay of Bengal Pilot, the sailors' information handbook,which is an encyclopaedia on the Bay of Bengal, had exhaustive details about impediments to safe navigation in the area.
" The book gives a detailed account about the climatology, meteorology, wind speed, and list of ports in the region.The book says that high-speed winds keep shifting and blow from all parts of the compass.The wind in this region is of a swirling nature which can make a heavy vessel drift dangerously ", cautioned the former navy officer.
He said the geography of the ' new alignment ' was vulnerable to the infamous Venturi Effect. " High velocity winds blowing through the area which resembles a geographical funnel will make the ships drift away from their steered courses. I myself have experienced the same while commanding a ship in the area. Larger the ship the greater and more rapid will be the drift ", said Captain Balakrishnan. He said no sailor worth his salt would prefer this sea route.
He said though in normal circumstances the drift could be prevented by increasing the speed, it was not feasible in a narrow stretch of channel like SSCP.
" Yet another drawback with the new alignment is its close proximity to shore. The ships will sail at a distance of just 3.5 nautical miles from the shore which is not prudent navigation ", he pointed out.
The captain reiterated his stance that the expenditure incurred by ships sailing through the new alignment would benefit neither the ships not the SSCP.
"New alignment unfavourable: Expert"(pp-5) by Kumar Chellappan (28 Aug. 2008, Deccan Chronicle, Chennai)
CHENNAI, AUG. 27: " The new alignment proposed for the Sethusamudram Shipping Channel Project (SSCP) is no better in terms of economy and environmental protection. Even after different permutations and combinations, this project is destined to be doomed because it does not make any sense", veteran navigator Captain Hariharan Balakrishnan has observed reacting to the suggestions made by the Supreme Court to the union government to find out the possibility of a new alignment for the controversial SSCP.
Capt. Balakrishnan said that the Bay of Bengal Pilot, the sailors' information handbook,which is an encyclopaedia on the Bay of Bengal, had exhaustive details about impediments to safe navigation in the area.
" The book gives a detailed account about the climatology, meteorology, wind speed, and list of ports in the region.The book says that high-speed winds keep shifting and blow from all parts of the compass.The wind in this region is of a swirling nature which can make a heavy vessel drift dangerously ", cautioned the former navy officer.
He said the geography of the ' new alignment ' was vulnerable to the infamous Venturi Effect. " High velocity winds blowing through the area which resembles a geographical funnel will make the ships drift away from their steered courses. I myself have experienced the same while commanding a ship in the area. Larger the ship the greater and more rapid will be the drift ", said Captain Balakrishnan. He said no sailor worth his salt would prefer this sea route.
He said though in normal circumstances the drift could be prevented by increasing the speed, it was not feasible in a narrow stretch of channel like SSCP.
" Yet another drawback with the new alignment is its close proximity to shore. The ships will sail at a distance of just 3.5 nautical miles from the shore which is not prudent navigation ", he pointed out.
The captain reiterated his stance that the expenditure incurred by ships sailing through the new alignment would benefit neither the ships not the SSCP.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Lord Rama myth or truth -- Vivek Arya
Lord Rama myth or truth
By Dr. Vivek Arya
Rama - The Role Model
Recently issue of Ramsetu is in vogue. Government filed an affadavit before supreme court stating that Rama has never existed on this earth. However, on strong opposition by other political parties and Hindu activist they withdrew the affadavit. Hindu organizations like Vishwa Hindu Parishad etc claim that question relating to existence of Rama cannot be simply resolved by scientific or historical findings.
Existence of Rama is basically a question of faith for millions of people. Therefore no Government can deny existence of Rama. But these greatest advocates of Hindusim did not show guts to take on Government/Karunanidhi and prove that Rama is as historical fact and not a myth.
Neverthless , they got support from an unexpected quarter i.e Hurriyat conference from Kashmir. Hurriayat also claimed that scientific or historical evidence are not yardstick to judge various issues related to religion.
Hence, whether Rama existed or not cannot be decided on base of scientific or historical findings. This is basically associated with religious sentiments of millions of people therefore government interference is unwanted.
In the mean time some of the scientists, based on astronomical data, have propounded that Rama existed around 5044 BC. In such a perplexing situation it becomes very difficult for common masses to arrive at any conclusive view regarding the existence of Rama. Hence, before deriving any conlusions we have to first analyse various facts regarding Rama and his epic Ramayana.
This article will put forth various facts which will help in resolving the issue of Rama's existence and will strongly conclude that Rama was an historical Mahanayaka and not any mythological character.
WHO WAS RAMA:-
Maharishi Valmiki wanted to write an historical epic which can act as guiding principle for future generations. He was in dilemma over this issue. When he consulted Narada Muni, Narada Muni then suggested Valmiki to write about Rama, son of Dasratha who was born in the clan of Raghu. Here one should remember that Valmiki wrote Ramayana long after the period of Rama . This facts goes contrary to the prevalent legend that Valmiki wrote Ramayana before Rama was born. This fact has been very well stated in Valmiki's Ramayana.
Similarly Mahakavi Kalidas wrote Raghuvansham. This books throws light on lineage of Raghu and also states various kings who ruled after Rama. So, now the point of argument is that if Rama was a mythological character then how could Valmiki provide history of forefathers of Rama ?
Whereas in Raghuvansham Kalidasa has provided details of forefathers of Rama and his various Santatis(successor) who ruled after him. In present times various books dealing with stories of Rama are prevalent in India and around the world. We will throw light on this issue in the latter part of this article.
WHEN WAS RAMA BORN:-(based on Valmiki's Ramayana)
The burning topic in present times is, when was Rama born ?
Before dwelling on this point, first of all we have to understand that our great Maharishies has systematically divided period of shristi in Manvantars. Each Manvantar is furthur divided into chaturyugis. Each chaturyugis consist of Krita(satyuga), traita, dwapar and kaliyuga. Present Manvantar is Vaivast Manvantar. Already 27 chaturyugies of this Manvantar have passed. This is the 28th chaturyugi and first charan (period) of this chaturyugi is in continuation.
It is well known fact that Rama was born during the latter part of traita. Hence, if we assume that Rama was born in the present chaturyugi then it means he was born at least 10,00,000 years ago. The period of his birth may be more than this.
However, Vayu purana provide us the correct chronological period of Ramayana. If we take Vayu purana period into consideration then period of Rama goes to atleast 1,80,00,000 years back. Hence we can easily conclude that period of Rama is atleast 10,00,000 years to 1,80,00,000 years (this issue will be resolved in another topic "Blunders of Indian History") .
This view is also supported by the fact that when Hanuman went to Lanka in search of Sita, there he saw elephants having four teeth. Hence this is now for archeiologist/biologist to ascertain when did such elephants exist on earth ? (The calculations of chaturyugies will be dealt in another topic "Age of present shristi", whereas difficulties encountered in establishing chronological correctness of historical events for period before Christ will be dealt in "blunders of history").
Another interesting fact that has been mentioned in Valmiki Ramayana is that the paternal home of Bharat and Shatrughan was in a country where mode of transportation was vehicle being carried by dogs or deer. When both the brothers returned to Ayodhya from their maternal home they crossed many places covered by snow and were wearing wollen clothes. Which place does this episode points to has to be ascertained.
By our logic it is Russia, as phonetically Russia sounds like misnomer of Rishi (this has been established in our article blunder of Indian/World history) Above mentioned facts clearly give us an insight into the period when Rama was born. So those who claim that Rama is only a mythological character we are providing them some more proofs which will establish that before the advent of Christinity and Islam Rama was revered throughout out the world as an international cult figure.
LEGENDS OF RAMAYANA IN VARIOUS PARTS OF GLOBE
1) RAMAYANA IN RUSSIA AND MANGOLIA:-
The Deccan Herald, dtd 15 dec 1972, at its front page gave a news which states that in Elista, capital of Kalmyk in Russia, story relating to Ramayana had been published. The news further states that various legends of Ramayana are popular among people of Kalmyk. Various version of Ramayana are already stored in libraries in Kalmyk. The news clearly states that legends of Ramayana are very popular since time immemorial. Domodin Suren, a Russian writer, has compiled various legends popular among Mongolian and Kalmyk peoples. Prof C F Glostunky's manuscript 'Academy of sciences' is stored at Siberian Branch of erstwhile U S S R. That book deals with various legends popular along the coast of Volga river. This manuscript is in Kalmyk language. In Leningrad also various books dealing with stories of Ramayana in Russian and Mongolian languages are preserved.
2) RAMAYANA IN CHINA:-
In china, collection of Jatak stories relating various events of Ramayana, belonging to 251 AD. were compiled by KANG_SENG_HUA . Another book, of 742 AD, relating story of plight of Dasratha after Rama was ordered to go for Vanvasa is still found in China. Similarly in 1600 AD, His-Yii-Chii wrote a novel with title Kapi (monkey) dwelling on the stories of Ramayana, predominantly that of Hanuman.
3) RAMAYANA IN SRILANKA:-
Naresh Kumar Dhatusena alias Kumardasa, who ruled Srilanka in 617 AD wrote 'Janakiharan'. This is the oldest Sanskrit literature available in Srilanka. In Modern times C Don Bostean and Jhon d'silva have written stories based on Ramayana. Till today majority of population adore and revere Rama and Sita.
4) RAMAYANA IN COMBODIA(KAMPUCHIA):-
Various rock inscription belonging to 700 AD are found in Khmer region of Cambodia. These rock inscription are based on stories of Ramayana. Various temples constructed during the reign of Khmer dynasty depicts the story of Ramayana on their walls. The temples of Angkor are very famous for the stories of Ramayana and Mahabharata. These temples belong to the earlier part of 400 AD to 700 AD. One astonishing fact in these engraved pictures is that Hanuman and rest other Vanars are not shown with tail as against the popular belief of masses. (Whether Hanuman etc are monkeys, this issue will be dealt latter)
5) RAMAYANA IN INDONESIA:-
According to De Casperis, there was a temple named 'Chandi loro jongrong' which has stories of Ramayana engraved on its walls. This temple was of 9th century AD. In Indonesia another version of stories of Ramayana named Kakavin is very popular. This story was bit different from that of Prambanan. Besides that various other version of Ramayana stories were very popular in early centuries after christ which itself proves that Ramayana was very popular among Indonesian people before advent of Islam. It is also an astonishing fact that first international convention on Ramayana was organized in Indonesia few years back.
6) RAMAYANA IN LAOS:-
When the local people pronounce Laos in their language it phonetically sounds like the name of one of the sons of Rama. Besides remains of temples of Vat- she-fum and Vat-pa-Kev depict the story of Ramayana on their walls. Whereas temples of Vat-pra-kev and Vat-sisket are having books containing epic of Ramayana. Lafont, French traveler translated story of 'Pa laka-Pa lama' in his book named P'ommachak in french. This book also deals with story of Ramayana popular among masses of Laos.
7) RAMAYANA IN THAILAND:-
Stories of Ramayana are still very popular among masses. In early centuries after Christ many kings who have Rama as either prefix or suffix in their name ruled this country. Just as we organize play of Ramayana in India, similarly various dramatic versions or Ramayana are oraganised in Thailand till today. Similar dramatic versions of Ramayana are still organized in various south-east asian countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Combodia etc.
8) RAMAYANA IN MALAYSIA:-
In Malaysia till today plays are oraganised based on the stories of 'HIKAYAT SERI RAMA' ,written in 14 century AD,. Dalang society organize nearly 200-300 plays relating to Ramayana. Before commencement of the play people conduct various prayers and ablutions revering RAMA and SITA.
9) RAMAYANA IN BURMA:- King Kayanjhitha who reigned during 1084 –
1112 AD; regarded as descendant of clan of Rama. Various books relating to the stories of Ramayana as early as 15 century AD are still found in Burma. Books like 'Kavyadarsh' , 'Subhasit Ratanidhi' are based on the stories of Ramayana. Zhang-Zhungpa, commentary of Ramayana was written by Taranath, which is not available in modern times. In Burma also various form of plays are conducted based on the stories of Ramayana.
10) RAMAYANA IN NEPAL:-
Oldest version of Ramayana, belonging ot 1075 AD is still found in Nepal.
11) RAMAYANA IN PHILIPINES:-
Effect of stories of Ramayana can easily be felt in the customs, traditions and legends of majority of masses. Prof Juon R Francisco found that among Marineo Muslims, legend based on Ramayana is popular, in which Rama has been depicted as Incarnation of God. Similarly among Magindanao or Sulu folk Muslims also various legends based on the stories of Ramayana are popular.
12) RAMAYANA IN IRAN:
In Hyderabad city, capital of Andhra Pradesh, there is museum named Salarjung. There one portrait is depicting a burly monkey having a very big stone in its hand. This portrait reminds one of Hanuman holding Dronagiri. Similarly Marco Polo in his book (translated by Sir Henry Yule in English) wrote at page no 302, vol II about a peculiar belief among Muslims, spread from Afganistan to Morocco and Algeria. These Muslims believed that members of imperial house of Trebizond were endowed with short tails while mediavel continentals had similar stories about Englishmen as- Mathew Paris relates…. ; We are of the belief that if one seriously starts investigating various legends prevalent, before advent of Islam and Christianity, in Arabic countries and European countries then existence of Ramayana and Mahabharta can be proved. Due to barbaric and dogmatic acts of these peoples a wide range of literature and buildings of historical importance has been wiped out.
13) RAMAYANA IN EUROPE:
In Italy, when excavation were carried out in the remains of Astrocon civilization, then various houses were found having peculiar type of paintings on their wall. These paintings, on closer investigation, seems to be based on the stories of Ramayana. Some of the paintings shows peculiar persons having tails along with two men bearing bows and arrows on their shoulders, while a lady is standing besides them. These paintings are of 7 century BC. It should be remembered that once Astrocon civilization was spread over 75 pct of Italy.
Sir Henry Yule in his translation of works of Marcopolo has referred to the belief prevalent among Medival Europeans that their Ancestors were having small tails. The same fact has been referred by Maharishi Dayanand in his magnum opus 'Satyarth Prakash'. There Swamiji states that people of Europe were called as Vanaras (monkeys) , due to their appearance in our epic like Mahabharta, Valmiki Ramayana etc. If we analyse this statement in present context, then how are we going to define various statements like kangaroos (Australian team) meet men in blue (Indian team) at Calcutta.
Similar sort of epithets were used during World war to describe armies of different countries or else we see that we have helicopters named cheetah etc. As these words (epithets) are just a way to describe different sets of people, arms etc, similarly words like Rakshas, Vanaras etc were used in our legends. These facts clearly indicates that legends of Ramayana are not work of fiction and were very popular around the world.
14) RAMAYANA IN AFRICA (CONTINENT):
People of Ethiopia call themselves as descendents of Cushites. This word Cush is basically phonectic misnomer of Kush, the son of Rama. This fact is verly established by Satpath Brahamans, commentary on Vedas. These Brahamans while explaining various mantras of Vedas uses many histrorical events to elucidate the topic.
Astonishingly in Satpath Brahaman we find reference regarding the rule of King Bharata (predecessor of Kaurav and Pandavs) in Rhodesia .
Besides many inconsistent legends inspired by epic of Ramayana are prevalent in African Communities and they basically refers to various activities of vanars.
Egypt basically derives its name from Ajpati which is one of the names of forefather of Rama. If we analyse various legends prevalent in Egypt there we will found references of Dasratha (father of Rama). These facts can be very well established from various historical references of Brahamans (for the proof of it see our article Blunders of Indian/World history)
15) RAMAYANA IN NORTH AMERICAN AND SOUTH AMERICAN CONTINENTS:
Before Columbus discovered North American continent European people were not knowing about it. However A DE QNATREFAGES in his book, THE HUMAN SPECIES, categorically says that Chinese people were aware about the American continent and they used to have trade relations with them. America was referred as Fad-Sang. Similarly in Japanese people it was known as Fad-See. Similarly, if we refer to various historical reference in Mahabharata, Valmiki Ramayana etc we will find that American continent has been reffered as Patal Desh (Patal means below foot). If we geographically see then we will find that American continent is just below the Indian Subcontinent. We will throw greater light on this issue in our topic, BLUNDERS OF INDIAN HISTORY/WORLD HISTORY.
But for your reference we are providing you some prevalent legends.
a) beautiful girl in Mexican tribal area till today are called as Ulopy. If we see in Mahabharata we find reference of Arjuna marrying a girl named Ulopy who was daughter of King of Patal Desh.
b) W H Prescott in his book , ' History of conquest of Mexico', provides various references which prove that earlier civilization of American subcontinent have major similarities with that of Indian (Aryan) civilization.
However here we are providing you one reference which clearly state that Ramayana is not mythological epic but it bears historical testimony. According to writer of the book there is popular legend in Aztec community which states that a beautiful person named Quevtsal Katal came there from east and taught them various aspects of advanced civilization; as a result his period was treated as golden era. He then went back to his original homeland because of persecution by some divine creature. This legend surprisingly does not throw light on the reasons why he returned.
Another interesting fact that has been stated by Prescott is that this legend is available in documented form. Now, none except Indian tradition can claim that they bear root to this legend. The same story has been narrated in Valmiki Ramayana, in uttarkand where it is mentioned that Salkantak Rakshas who dwelled in Lanka were persecuted by Vishnu. Due to this persecution they left Lanka and went to Patal Desh. The leader of this group was Sumali. According to Ramayana they lived in Patal Desh for long time. When they found condition congenial they returned to their homeland.
It is for readers to decide when such conclusive proof are there to establish that epic of Ramayana is not mythological legend but it is historical evidence which bears testimony to various legends prevalent around the world. Till today play named Ramasitotav is
played in various communities of Mexico. To our amazement Rama has been mentioned in Bible, new testament, Mathew ch 2/18, where it is mentioned " his voices was heard in RAMA". Rama is proper noun there, now it is for biblical society to define who was Rama and why he has been mentioned in Bible.
Even the name of Dasratha and Ayodhya are there in Bible. We will be referring to these facts in Blunders of Indian/world History.
Now we would pose some tickling questions to the historians:
1) Why month of fasting among muslims is called Ramadhan ?
2) Why place in Gazastrip is called Ramallaha ?
3) Why place in London is named as Ramsgate ?
4) Why capital of Italy is known as Rome(misnomer of Rama)
We can provide various examples where word Rama has been used as suffix or prefix with the names of various historical places/persons or misnomer of Rama has been used as name for historical places/persons. None of the historical evidence provides conclusive answer to these facts unless we take Indian historical evidences into account.
In our article ' Blunders of Indian/World history ' we will provide proof for it. We also believe that if barabaric religions like Christinity and Islam had not gained popularity then we would have more data to prove our point conclusively. These two semetic religions have inflicted unparrelled havoc on historical data and buildings. They destroyed all the libraries/monuments of historical importance which did not conform to their beliefs.
Still we have lot with us and we can recreate correct chronological data of world history. It is widely accepted that the King Alexander invaded India. It really sounds ironical that we are accepting this theory without any historical evidence, on the other hand we go on to deny existence of Rama despite various historical evidences are there to prove that he was not mythical but a historical Mahanayak.
These historians in order to defy Rama's existence are ridiculously harping on the same old tone of theory of evolution which does not have any scientific proof. (Why and how theory of evolution gained importance will be dealt in our article How the universe is created. The only thing of significance regarding theory of evolution, we want to state here is that it was a tool which was invented to challenge the anarchaic/draconian supremacy of church. The church use to claim that this world was created by God out of nothing and the age of this Univerese is not more than 10000 years. By the help of evolutionary theory scientific world challenged the supremacy of church and overcame the clergy.)
This is for readers to decide by themselves how they are going to treat Rama. We think that we have provided lot of food for thought. Those who are illogically biased may still refute the existence of Rama while those who are logical and believe that mythological character can never gain such world-wide respect/reverence will start looking upon Rama from wider historical evidences.
Here we want to clarify following points:
1) Rama was not an incarnation of God but he was Mahanayak, a legendary person who lived a pristine life and is an example to be emulated till today.
2) Ramasetu, on which lot of controversy is being created, might not be built by Rama as the period of Rama is at least 10,00,000 years. During this time geographical conditions has changed drastically.
3) Valmiki Ramayana is not fiction but an epic based on historical evidence. We can analyze the issue of Ramasetu only on the basis of environmental/economical viability.
For those who are questioning existence of Rama, let them first justify wether their forefathers ever existed, by using the same yardstick which they are using for existence of Rama.
From: Asavari Date: Sat, Aug 23, 2008 at 5:44 AM
By Dr. Vivek Arya
Rama - The Role Model
Recently issue of Ramsetu is in vogue. Government filed an affadavit before supreme court stating that Rama has never existed on this earth. However, on strong opposition by other political parties and Hindu activist they withdrew the affadavit. Hindu organizations like Vishwa Hindu Parishad etc claim that question relating to existence of Rama cannot be simply resolved by scientific or historical findings.
Existence of Rama is basically a question of faith for millions of people. Therefore no Government can deny existence of Rama. But these greatest advocates of Hindusim did not show guts to take on Government/Karunanidhi and prove that Rama is as historical fact and not a myth.
Neverthless , they got support from an unexpected quarter i.e Hurriyat conference from Kashmir. Hurriayat also claimed that scientific or historical evidence are not yardstick to judge various issues related to religion.
Hence, whether Rama existed or not cannot be decided on base of scientific or historical findings. This is basically associated with religious sentiments of millions of people therefore government interference is unwanted.
In the mean time some of the scientists, based on astronomical data, have propounded that Rama existed around 5044 BC. In such a perplexing situation it becomes very difficult for common masses to arrive at any conclusive view regarding the existence of Rama. Hence, before deriving any conlusions we have to first analyse various facts regarding Rama and his epic Ramayana.
This article will put forth various facts which will help in resolving the issue of Rama's existence and will strongly conclude that Rama was an historical Mahanayaka and not any mythological character.
WHO WAS RAMA:-
Maharishi Valmiki wanted to write an historical epic which can act as guiding principle for future generations. He was in dilemma over this issue. When he consulted Narada Muni, Narada Muni then suggested Valmiki to write about Rama, son of Dasratha who was born in the clan of Raghu. Here one should remember that Valmiki wrote Ramayana long after the period of Rama . This facts goes contrary to the prevalent legend that Valmiki wrote Ramayana before Rama was born. This fact has been very well stated in Valmiki's Ramayana.
Similarly Mahakavi Kalidas wrote Raghuvansham. This books throws light on lineage of Raghu and also states various kings who ruled after Rama. So, now the point of argument is that if Rama was a mythological character then how could Valmiki provide history of forefathers of Rama ?
Whereas in Raghuvansham Kalidasa has provided details of forefathers of Rama and his various Santatis(successor) who ruled after him. In present times various books dealing with stories of Rama are prevalent in India and around the world. We will throw light on this issue in the latter part of this article.
WHEN WAS RAMA BORN:-(based on Valmiki's Ramayana)
The burning topic in present times is, when was Rama born ?
Before dwelling on this point, first of all we have to understand that our great Maharishies has systematically divided period of shristi in Manvantars. Each Manvantar is furthur divided into chaturyugis. Each chaturyugis consist of Krita(satyuga), traita, dwapar and kaliyuga. Present Manvantar is Vaivast Manvantar. Already 27 chaturyugies of this Manvantar have passed. This is the 28th chaturyugi and first charan (period) of this chaturyugi is in continuation.
It is well known fact that Rama was born during the latter part of traita. Hence, if we assume that Rama was born in the present chaturyugi then it means he was born at least 10,00,000 years ago. The period of his birth may be more than this.
However, Vayu purana provide us the correct chronological period of Ramayana. If we take Vayu purana period into consideration then period of Rama goes to atleast 1,80,00,000 years back. Hence we can easily conclude that period of Rama is atleast 10,00,000 years to 1,80,00,000 years (this issue will be resolved in another topic "Blunders of Indian History") .
This view is also supported by the fact that when Hanuman went to Lanka in search of Sita, there he saw elephants having four teeth. Hence this is now for archeiologist/biologist to ascertain when did such elephants exist on earth ? (The calculations of chaturyugies will be dealt in another topic "Age of present shristi", whereas difficulties encountered in establishing chronological correctness of historical events for period before Christ will be dealt in "blunders of history").
Another interesting fact that has been mentioned in Valmiki Ramayana is that the paternal home of Bharat and Shatrughan was in a country where mode of transportation was vehicle being carried by dogs or deer. When both the brothers returned to Ayodhya from their maternal home they crossed many places covered by snow and were wearing wollen clothes. Which place does this episode points to has to be ascertained.
By our logic it is Russia, as phonetically Russia sounds like misnomer of Rishi (this has been established in our article blunder of Indian/World history) Above mentioned facts clearly give us an insight into the period when Rama was born. So those who claim that Rama is only a mythological character we are providing them some more proofs which will establish that before the advent of Christinity and Islam Rama was revered throughout out the world as an international cult figure.
LEGENDS OF RAMAYANA IN VARIOUS PARTS OF GLOBE
1) RAMAYANA IN RUSSIA AND MANGOLIA:-
The Deccan Herald, dtd 15 dec 1972, at its front page gave a news which states that in Elista, capital of Kalmyk in Russia, story relating to Ramayana had been published. The news further states that various legends of Ramayana are popular among people of Kalmyk. Various version of Ramayana are already stored in libraries in Kalmyk. The news clearly states that legends of Ramayana are very popular since time immemorial. Domodin Suren, a Russian writer, has compiled various legends popular among Mongolian and Kalmyk peoples. Prof C F Glostunky's manuscript 'Academy of sciences' is stored at Siberian Branch of erstwhile U S S R. That book deals with various legends popular along the coast of Volga river. This manuscript is in Kalmyk language. In Leningrad also various books dealing with stories of Ramayana in Russian and Mongolian languages are preserved.
2) RAMAYANA IN CHINA:-
In china, collection of Jatak stories relating various events of Ramayana, belonging to 251 AD. were compiled by KANG_SENG_HUA . Another book, of 742 AD, relating story of plight of Dasratha after Rama was ordered to go for Vanvasa is still found in China. Similarly in 1600 AD, His-Yii-Chii wrote a novel with title Kapi (monkey) dwelling on the stories of Ramayana, predominantly that of Hanuman.
3) RAMAYANA IN SRILANKA:-
Naresh Kumar Dhatusena alias Kumardasa, who ruled Srilanka in 617 AD wrote 'Janakiharan'. This is the oldest Sanskrit literature available in Srilanka. In Modern times C Don Bostean and Jhon d'silva have written stories based on Ramayana. Till today majority of population adore and revere Rama and Sita.
4) RAMAYANA IN COMBODIA(KAMPUCHIA):-
Various rock inscription belonging to 700 AD are found in Khmer region of Cambodia. These rock inscription are based on stories of Ramayana. Various temples constructed during the reign of Khmer dynasty depicts the story of Ramayana on their walls. The temples of Angkor are very famous for the stories of Ramayana and Mahabharata. These temples belong to the earlier part of 400 AD to 700 AD. One astonishing fact in these engraved pictures is that Hanuman and rest other Vanars are not shown with tail as against the popular belief of masses. (Whether Hanuman etc are monkeys, this issue will be dealt latter)
5) RAMAYANA IN INDONESIA:-
According to De Casperis, there was a temple named 'Chandi loro jongrong' which has stories of Ramayana engraved on its walls. This temple was of 9th century AD. In Indonesia another version of stories of Ramayana named Kakavin is very popular. This story was bit different from that of Prambanan. Besides that various other version of Ramayana stories were very popular in early centuries after christ which itself proves that Ramayana was very popular among Indonesian people before advent of Islam. It is also an astonishing fact that first international convention on Ramayana was organized in Indonesia few years back.
6) RAMAYANA IN LAOS:-
When the local people pronounce Laos in their language it phonetically sounds like the name of one of the sons of Rama. Besides remains of temples of Vat- she-fum and Vat-pa-Kev depict the story of Ramayana on their walls. Whereas temples of Vat-pra-kev and Vat-sisket are having books containing epic of Ramayana. Lafont, French traveler translated story of 'Pa laka-Pa lama' in his book named P'ommachak in french. This book also deals with story of Ramayana popular among masses of Laos.
7) RAMAYANA IN THAILAND:-
Stories of Ramayana are still very popular among masses. In early centuries after Christ many kings who have Rama as either prefix or suffix in their name ruled this country. Just as we organize play of Ramayana in India, similarly various dramatic versions or Ramayana are oraganised in Thailand till today. Similar dramatic versions of Ramayana are still organized in various south-east asian countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Combodia etc.
8) RAMAYANA IN MALAYSIA:-
In Malaysia till today plays are oraganised based on the stories of 'HIKAYAT SERI RAMA' ,written in 14 century AD,. Dalang society organize nearly 200-300 plays relating to Ramayana. Before commencement of the play people conduct various prayers and ablutions revering RAMA and SITA.
9) RAMAYANA IN BURMA:- King Kayanjhitha who reigned during 1084 –
1112 AD; regarded as descendant of clan of Rama. Various books relating to the stories of Ramayana as early as 15 century AD are still found in Burma. Books like 'Kavyadarsh' , 'Subhasit Ratanidhi' are based on the stories of Ramayana. Zhang-Zhungpa, commentary of Ramayana was written by Taranath, which is not available in modern times. In Burma also various form of plays are conducted based on the stories of Ramayana.
10) RAMAYANA IN NEPAL:-
Oldest version of Ramayana, belonging ot 1075 AD is still found in Nepal.
11) RAMAYANA IN PHILIPINES:-
Effect of stories of Ramayana can easily be felt in the customs, traditions and legends of majority of masses. Prof Juon R Francisco found that among Marineo Muslims, legend based on Ramayana is popular, in which Rama has been depicted as Incarnation of God. Similarly among Magindanao or Sulu folk Muslims also various legends based on the stories of Ramayana are popular.
12) RAMAYANA IN IRAN:
In Hyderabad city, capital of Andhra Pradesh, there is museum named Salarjung. There one portrait is depicting a burly monkey having a very big stone in its hand. This portrait reminds one of Hanuman holding Dronagiri. Similarly Marco Polo in his book (translated by Sir Henry Yule in English) wrote at page no 302, vol II about a peculiar belief among Muslims, spread from Afganistan to Morocco and Algeria. These Muslims believed that members of imperial house of Trebizond were endowed with short tails while mediavel continentals had similar stories about Englishmen as- Mathew Paris relates…. ; We are of the belief that if one seriously starts investigating various legends prevalent, before advent of Islam and Christianity, in Arabic countries and European countries then existence of Ramayana and Mahabharta can be proved. Due to barbaric and dogmatic acts of these peoples a wide range of literature and buildings of historical importance has been wiped out.
13) RAMAYANA IN EUROPE:
In Italy, when excavation were carried out in the remains of Astrocon civilization, then various houses were found having peculiar type of paintings on their wall. These paintings, on closer investigation, seems to be based on the stories of Ramayana. Some of the paintings shows peculiar persons having tails along with two men bearing bows and arrows on their shoulders, while a lady is standing besides them. These paintings are of 7 century BC. It should be remembered that once Astrocon civilization was spread over 75 pct of Italy.
Sir Henry Yule in his translation of works of Marcopolo has referred to the belief prevalent among Medival Europeans that their Ancestors were having small tails. The same fact has been referred by Maharishi Dayanand in his magnum opus 'Satyarth Prakash'. There Swamiji states that people of Europe were called as Vanaras (monkeys) , due to their appearance in our epic like Mahabharta, Valmiki Ramayana etc. If we analyse this statement in present context, then how are we going to define various statements like kangaroos (Australian team) meet men in blue (Indian team) at Calcutta.
Similar sort of epithets were used during World war to describe armies of different countries or else we see that we have helicopters named cheetah etc. As these words (epithets) are just a way to describe different sets of people, arms etc, similarly words like Rakshas, Vanaras etc were used in our legends. These facts clearly indicates that legends of Ramayana are not work of fiction and were very popular around the world.
14) RAMAYANA IN AFRICA (CONTINENT):
People of Ethiopia call themselves as descendents of Cushites. This word Cush is basically phonectic misnomer of Kush, the son of Rama. This fact is verly established by Satpath Brahamans, commentary on Vedas. These Brahamans while explaining various mantras of Vedas uses many histrorical events to elucidate the topic.
Astonishingly in Satpath Brahaman we find reference regarding the rule of King Bharata (predecessor of Kaurav and Pandavs) in Rhodesia .
Besides many inconsistent legends inspired by epic of Ramayana are prevalent in African Communities and they basically refers to various activities of vanars.
Egypt basically derives its name from Ajpati which is one of the names of forefather of Rama. If we analyse various legends prevalent in Egypt there we will found references of Dasratha (father of Rama). These facts can be very well established from various historical references of Brahamans (for the proof of it see our article Blunders of Indian/World history)
15) RAMAYANA IN NORTH AMERICAN AND SOUTH AMERICAN CONTINENTS:
Before Columbus discovered North American continent European people were not knowing about it. However A DE QNATREFAGES in his book, THE HUMAN SPECIES, categorically says that Chinese people were aware about the American continent and they used to have trade relations with them. America was referred as Fad-Sang. Similarly in Japanese people it was known as Fad-See. Similarly, if we refer to various historical reference in Mahabharata, Valmiki Ramayana etc we will find that American continent has been reffered as Patal Desh (Patal means below foot). If we geographically see then we will find that American continent is just below the Indian Subcontinent. We will throw greater light on this issue in our topic, BLUNDERS OF INDIAN HISTORY/WORLD HISTORY.
But for your reference we are providing you some prevalent legends.
a) beautiful girl in Mexican tribal area till today are called as Ulopy. If we see in Mahabharata we find reference of Arjuna marrying a girl named Ulopy who was daughter of King of Patal Desh.
b) W H Prescott in his book , ' History of conquest of Mexico', provides various references which prove that earlier civilization of American subcontinent have major similarities with that of Indian (Aryan) civilization.
However here we are providing you one reference which clearly state that Ramayana is not mythological epic but it bears historical testimony. According to writer of the book there is popular legend in Aztec community which states that a beautiful person named Quevtsal Katal came there from east and taught them various aspects of advanced civilization; as a result his period was treated as golden era. He then went back to his original homeland because of persecution by some divine creature. This legend surprisingly does not throw light on the reasons why he returned.
Another interesting fact that has been stated by Prescott is that this legend is available in documented form. Now, none except Indian tradition can claim that they bear root to this legend. The same story has been narrated in Valmiki Ramayana, in uttarkand where it is mentioned that Salkantak Rakshas who dwelled in Lanka were persecuted by Vishnu. Due to this persecution they left Lanka and went to Patal Desh. The leader of this group was Sumali. According to Ramayana they lived in Patal Desh for long time. When they found condition congenial they returned to their homeland.
It is for readers to decide when such conclusive proof are there to establish that epic of Ramayana is not mythological legend but it is historical evidence which bears testimony to various legends prevalent around the world. Till today play named Ramasitotav is
played in various communities of Mexico. To our amazement Rama has been mentioned in Bible, new testament, Mathew ch 2/18, where it is mentioned " his voices was heard in RAMA". Rama is proper noun there, now it is for biblical society to define who was Rama and why he has been mentioned in Bible.
Even the name of Dasratha and Ayodhya are there in Bible. We will be referring to these facts in Blunders of Indian/world History.
Now we would pose some tickling questions to the historians:
1) Why month of fasting among muslims is called Ramadhan ?
2) Why place in Gazastrip is called Ramallaha ?
3) Why place in London is named as Ramsgate ?
4) Why capital of Italy is known as Rome(misnomer of Rama)
We can provide various examples where word Rama has been used as suffix or prefix with the names of various historical places/persons or misnomer of Rama has been used as name for historical places/persons. None of the historical evidence provides conclusive answer to these facts unless we take Indian historical evidences into account.
In our article ' Blunders of Indian/World history ' we will provide proof for it. We also believe that if barabaric religions like Christinity and Islam had not gained popularity then we would have more data to prove our point conclusively. These two semetic religions have inflicted unparrelled havoc on historical data and buildings. They destroyed all the libraries/monuments of historical importance which did not conform to their beliefs.
Still we have lot with us and we can recreate correct chronological data of world history. It is widely accepted that the King Alexander invaded India. It really sounds ironical that we are accepting this theory without any historical evidence, on the other hand we go on to deny existence of Rama despite various historical evidences are there to prove that he was not mythical but a historical Mahanayak.
These historians in order to defy Rama's existence are ridiculously harping on the same old tone of theory of evolution which does not have any scientific proof. (Why and how theory of evolution gained importance will be dealt in our article How the universe is created. The only thing of significance regarding theory of evolution, we want to state here is that it was a tool which was invented to challenge the anarchaic/draconian supremacy of church. The church use to claim that this world was created by God out of nothing and the age of this Univerese is not more than 10000 years. By the help of evolutionary theory scientific world challenged the supremacy of church and overcame the clergy.)
This is for readers to decide by themselves how they are going to treat Rama. We think that we have provided lot of food for thought. Those who are illogically biased may still refute the existence of Rama while those who are logical and believe that mythological character can never gain such world-wide respect/reverence will start looking upon Rama from wider historical evidences.
Here we want to clarify following points:
1) Rama was not an incarnation of God but he was Mahanayak, a legendary person who lived a pristine life and is an example to be emulated till today.
2) Ramasetu, on which lot of controversy is being created, might not be built by Rama as the period of Rama is at least 10,00,000 years. During this time geographical conditions has changed drastically.
3) Valmiki Ramayana is not fiction but an epic based on historical evidence. We can analyze the issue of Ramasetu only on the basis of environmental/economical viability.
For those who are questioning existence of Rama, let them first justify wether their forefathers ever existed, by using the same yardstick which they are using for existence of Rama.
From: Asavari
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Setu project alternative alignment; experts' committee meet on 22 Aug. 2008
Let us hope that the Pachauri Committee will conduct its deliberations honestly and with transparency fully involving the public and all experts. Surely, the Committee should have the freedom to recommend scrapping the channel project and find alternatives to improve the livelihood of coastal people and use container-rail-road coordination alternatives.
kalyanaraman
Setu project alternative alignment: experts’ committee meet today (Aug. 22, 2008 ) – Dinamalar, Tamil daily
Following upon Supreme Court suggestion to examine the feasibility of an alignment for Setu channel project between Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi, Pachauri committee is meeting today to examine it. Chief Justice of SC, K. Balakrishnan had advised that the review of the possibility of realigning the channel alignment. Consequently, Govt. of India had appointed the Pachauri Committee.to examine the CJ’s suggestion.
The committee headed by Pachauri was appointed. A review meeting of this Committee will take place today.
Addl. Secretary of Shipping Ministry, Rajesh Shrivatsava, Chennai Port Trust Chairman Suresh met with the Committee Chairman and the three of them discussed the issue.
The Committee is expected to analyse and decide after reviewing the feasibility of an alternative alignment between Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi. When the Committee was constituted no time limit was set for completing the investigations by and recommendations of the Committee. Reliable sources, however, inform that the Committee is likely to submit its recommendation on the feasibility of the alternative alignment within a month or two.
Our Delhi Correspondent.
சேது சமுத்திர திட்ட மாற்றுப்பாதை : நிபுணர் குழு இன்று ஆலோசனை
ஆகஸ்ட் 22,2008,00:00 IST
சேது சமுத்திர திட்டத்தை நிறைவேற்ற சுப்ரீம் கோர்ட் அளித்த யோசனையை அடுத்து தனுஷ்கோடிக்கும் ராமேஸ்வரத்துக்கும் இடையில் மாற்றுப் பாதை அமைக்க முடியுமா என்பது குறித்து, ராஜேந்திர பச்சவ்ரி தலைமையிலான நிபுணர் குழு இன்று கூடி ஆலோசனை செய்கிறது. சேது சமுத்திர திட்டத்தை மாற்றுப் பாதையில் நிறைவேற்றுவதற்கு சாத்தியங்கள் உள்ளதா என்பது குறித்து ஆராயும்படி சுப்ரீம் கோர்ட் தலைமை நீதிபதி கே.ஜி.பாலகிருஷ்ணன் அறிவுறுத்தியிருந்தார். இதையடுத்து, ஒரு நிபுணர் குழுவை அமைத்து தலைமை நீதிபதி யோசனை குறித்து ஆராய்ந்து, தனது கருத்தை சொல்வதாக மத்திய அரசும் தெரிவித்திருந்தது.
இதற்காக, ராஜேந்திர பச்சவ்ரி தலைமையிலான ஐந்து உறுப்பினர் குழு அமைக்கப்பட்டது. இக்குழுவின் ஆலோசனைக் கூட்டம் இன்று நடைபெறுகிறது. இக்குழுவை, மத்திய துறைமுக இலாகா இணைச் செயலர் ராஜேஷ் ஸ்ரீவஸ்த்தவா மற்றும் ராஜிவ் குப்தா, சென்னை துறைமுக தலைவர் சுரேஷ் ஆகிய மூவரும் நேற்று சந்தித்துப் பேசினர். தற்போது மாற்றுப் பாதையாக தனுஷ்கோடிக்கும் ராமேஸ்வரத்துக்கும் இடையில் பாதை அமைக்க முடியுமா என்பது குறித்து இந்த நிபுணர்கள் குழு ஆராய்ந்து முடிவெடுக்கவுள்ளது. மத்திய அரசால் இக்குழு அமைக்கப்பட்ட போது எத்தனை நாட்களுக் குள் இறுதி அறிக்கையை அளிக்க வேண்டுமென்று கூறப்படவில்லை. இருப்பினும் சேதுசமுத்திர திட்டத் தை மாற்றுப் பாதையில் அமைக்க முடியுமா என்பது பற்றி ஆராய்ந்து, தனது இறுதி அறிக்கையை ஓரிரு மாதங்களில் இக்குழு மத்திய அரசிடம் அளிக்கும் என்று தகவலறிந்த வட்டாரங்கள் தெரிவிக்கின்றன.
நமது டில்லி நிருபர்
http://dinamalar.com/fpnnews.asp?News_id=1589&cls=row4
kalyanaraman
Setu project alternative alignment: experts’ committee meet today (Aug. 22, 2008 ) – Dinamalar, Tamil daily
Following upon Supreme Court suggestion to examine the feasibility of an alignment for Setu channel project between Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi, Pachauri committee is meeting today to examine it. Chief Justice of SC, K. Balakrishnan had advised that the review of the possibility of realigning the channel alignment. Consequently, Govt. of India had appointed the Pachauri Committee.to examine the CJ’s suggestion.
The committee headed by Pachauri was appointed. A review meeting of this Committee will take place today.
Addl. Secretary of Shipping Ministry, Rajesh Shrivatsava, Chennai Port Trust Chairman Suresh met with the Committee Chairman and the three of them discussed the issue.
The Committee is expected to analyse and decide after reviewing the feasibility of an alternative alignment between Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi. When the Committee was constituted no time limit was set for completing the investigations by and recommendations of the Committee. Reliable sources, however, inform that the Committee is likely to submit its recommendation on the feasibility of the alternative alignment within a month or two.
Our Delhi Correspondent.
சேது சமுத்திர திட்ட மாற்றுப்பாதை : நிபுணர் குழு இன்று ஆலோசனை
ஆகஸ்ட் 22,2008,00:00 IST
சேது சமுத்திர திட்டத்தை நிறைவேற்ற சுப்ரீம் கோர்ட் அளித்த யோசனையை அடுத்து தனுஷ்கோடிக்கும் ராமேஸ்வரத்துக்கும் இடையில் மாற்றுப் பாதை அமைக்க முடியுமா என்பது குறித்து, ராஜேந்திர பச்சவ்ரி தலைமையிலான நிபுணர் குழு இன்று கூடி ஆலோசனை செய்கிறது. சேது சமுத்திர திட்டத்தை மாற்றுப் பாதையில் நிறைவேற்றுவதற்கு சாத்தியங்கள் உள்ளதா என்பது குறித்து ஆராயும்படி சுப்ரீம் கோர்ட் தலைமை நீதிபதி கே.ஜி.பாலகிருஷ்ணன் அறிவுறுத்தியிருந்தார். இதையடுத்து, ஒரு நிபுணர் குழுவை அமைத்து தலைமை நீதிபதி யோசனை குறித்து ஆராய்ந்து, தனது கருத்தை சொல்வதாக மத்திய அரசும் தெரிவித்திருந்தது.
இதற்காக, ராஜேந்திர பச்சவ்ரி தலைமையிலான ஐந்து உறுப்பினர் குழு அமைக்கப்பட்டது. இக்குழுவின் ஆலோசனைக் கூட்டம் இன்று நடைபெறுகிறது. இக்குழுவை, மத்திய துறைமுக இலாகா இணைச் செயலர் ராஜேஷ் ஸ்ரீவஸ்த்தவா மற்றும் ராஜிவ் குப்தா, சென்னை துறைமுக தலைவர் சுரேஷ் ஆகிய மூவரும் நேற்று சந்தித்துப் பேசினர். தற்போது மாற்றுப் பாதையாக தனுஷ்கோடிக்கும் ராமேஸ்வரத்துக்கும் இடையில் பாதை அமைக்க முடியுமா என்பது குறித்து இந்த நிபுணர்கள் குழு ஆராய்ந்து முடிவெடுக்கவுள்ளது. மத்திய அரசால் இக்குழு அமைக்கப்பட்ட போது எத்தனை நாட்களுக் குள் இறுதி அறிக்கையை அளிக்க வேண்டுமென்று கூறப்படவில்லை. இருப்பினும் சேதுசமுத்திர திட்டத் தை மாற்றுப் பாதையில் அமைக்க முடியுமா என்பது பற்றி ஆராய்ந்து, தனது இறுதி அறிக்கையை ஓரிரு மாதங்களில் இக்குழு மத்திய அரசிடம் அளிக்கும் என்று தகவலறிந்த வட்டாரங்கள் தெரிவிக்கின்றன.
நமது டில்லி நிருபர்
http://dinamalar.com/fpnnews.asp?News_id=1589&cls=row4
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Scrap Setu Project, Pachauri committee: Signatory states of IOSEA Marine Turtle MOU
August 20, 2008 Bali, Indonesia
RESOLUTION ON THE SETHUSAMUDRAM SHIP CANAL PROJECT, GULF OF MANNAR & PALK BAY, India and Sri Lanka
http://www.sangam.org/articles/view2/print.php?uid=677 Geopolitical perspective and security in the Indian Ocean: Sethusamuderam Project: Reasons for the Construction of the Canal and its Economic & Environmental Impact on Sri Lanka by Donald Jayantha Gnanakone
Adopted by the Fifth Meeting of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation and Management of Marine Turtles and their Habitats of the Indian Ocean and South-East Asia (Bali, 20-23 August 2008)
Recognizing that the waters of the Gulf of Mannar, including Palk Strait, Palk Bay, and Adam’s Bridge, provide critical habitats such as extensive seagrass beds and coral reefs which support regionally important concentrations of endangered and threatened migratory marine wildlife, including four species of marine turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea, Caretta caretta, Eretmochelys imbricata, Chelonia mydas, Marine Mammals such as Dugong (Dugong dugong), Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus), Blue Whale (Balaenoptera musculus), Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus), Sei Whale (Balaenoptera borealis), Bryde's Whale (Balaenoptera edeni), Short-finned Pilot Whale (Globicephala macro), Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin (Sousa chinensis), Striped Dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), Spinner Dolphin (Stenella longirostris),Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis), Bottle-nosed Dolphin (Tursiops truncates), False Killer Whale Pseudorca crassidens,- Whale Shark, (Rhincodon typus) and birds – Spot billed pelican, Oriental darter, Lesser flamingo, White ibis and Painted stork.
(Bird List from Dr. Balachander of the Bombay Natural History Society who is based in the region- these are near threatened IUCN status)
Ceteaceans in Palk Bay and Gulf of Mannar (From “A Catalogue of Indian Marine Mammal Records” by Kumaran Sathasivam 2004)
Acknowledging that this project area has unique historic, cultural and economic importance to the people from India and Sri Lanka, in addition to providing essential living marine resources for more than 500,000 fishersfolk in India and Sri Lanka;
Concerned that the Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project (SSCP), will involve dredging and maintaining a 89 km long channel, which will be 300 meters wide and 12 meters deep in 3 segments across the Gulf of Mannar to allow passage of ships up to 30,000 DWT which will unquestionably cause changes to the sediment flow, oceanographic parameters, nutrient cycles and irreversible damage to critical marine habitats, endangered and migratory species, within the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay. The globally significant and endemic species of this biodiverse region stands threatened.
Conscious that the proposed project will be within 6km of India's first and largest Biosphere Reserve, which is internationally recognized within the framework of UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme.
Recalling that Biosphere Reserves are nominated by national governments under the UNESCO's MAB Programme to “reduce biodiversity loss; improve livelihoods and enhance social, economic and cultural conditions for environmental sustainability”.
Aware that various documents fundamental for the justification of the SSCP, such as the EIA report, Detailed Project Report, Technical Feasibility and the Economic Analysis report, have been criticised by several experts in environmental science, earth sciences, oceanography, geology, naval hydrography, marine biology, environmental policy, law, economics, and maritime navigation who have concluded that the environmental and social impacts on the biodiversity of the region, including endangered or threatened migratory species and their habitats as well as the financial viability of the project have not been adequately assessed or predicted.
Further acknowledging that analyses of the project by economic, shipping and marine navigation experts conclude that previous cost-benefit analyses and financial feasibility studies have not adequately or accurately forecast the costs to potential SSCP users, thereby questioning the project’s economic viability;
Concerned that this project will have severe, deleterious impacts on the above mentioned endangered and threatened migratory species and their habitats, local marine and coastal biodiversity, fisheries and marine related livelihoods of communities in the region of Palk Bay and the Gulf of Mannar;
Recognizing the strong public opinion and opposition against this project from local fisher communities as well as civil society due to its implications on the environment, ecology and the local livelihood as articulated in the prayers of the petitions being heard in the Supreme Court of India [Special Leave Petitions (SLP) (Civil) Nos. 19176 of 2005 and SLP (Civil) 20758 of 2005];
The Signatory States to the IOSEA Marine Turtle Memorandum of Understanding
Urge that a comprehensive regional environmental impact assessment study be carried out by an independent agency to determine the likely impacts of the project on the environment within the contiguous marine and terrestrial territories of India and Sri Lanka, including all endangered and threatened migratory species and their habitats, and a report prepared for public consultation in India, Sri Lanka, and other States likely to be affected before any further construction activities related to the SSCP are taken forward;
Urge that a comprehensive and independent economic and financial feasibility analysis be carried out by an independent agency any further construction activities related to the SSCP are taken forward;
Urge that these analyses take into account views and opinions of various relevant inter-governmental bodies and agencies, including, but not limited to, CMS, UNESCO, UNEP, FAO and IMO, and also take into account written statements from various community institutions (such as village committees, traditional panchayats and gram panchayats) of each coastal village in the area of influence on the project;
Urge that the above documents are translated into the local languages and disseminated to communities and civil society for public consultation and for the purpose of conducting fresh public hearings in India and Sri Lanka on the SSCP to assess the full environmental and economic implications of the project.
Dear all,
Please find the above draft resolution on proposed Sethusamudram Canal which will be adopted by the Fifth Meeting of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation and Management of Marine Turtles and their Habitats of the Indian Ocean and South-East Asia (Bali, 20-23 August 2008). For Sri Lankan conservationists and politicians, this document may be with great importance.
Kind regards
Thushan Kapurusinghe
Project Leader - Turtle Conservation Project (TCP)
Marine Turtle Specialist - IUCN/SSC-MTSG
http://tamilsforjustice.blogspot.com/2008/08/resolution-on-sethusamudram-ship-canal.html
RESOLUTION ON THE SETHUSAMUDRAM SHIP CANAL PROJECT, GULF OF MANNAR & PALK BAY, India and Sri Lanka
http://www.sangam.org/articles/view2/print.php?uid=677 Geopolitical perspective and security in the Indian Ocean: Sethusamuderam Project: Reasons for the Construction of the Canal and its Economic & Environmental Impact on Sri Lanka by Donald Jayantha Gnanakone
Adopted by the Fifth Meeting of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation and Management of Marine Turtles and their Habitats of the Indian Ocean and South-East Asia (Bali, 20-23 August 2008)
Recognizing that the waters of the Gulf of Mannar, including Palk Strait, Palk Bay, and Adam’s Bridge, provide critical habitats such as extensive seagrass beds and coral reefs which support regionally important concentrations of endangered and threatened migratory marine wildlife, including four species of marine turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea, Caretta caretta, Eretmochelys imbricata, Chelonia mydas, Marine Mammals such as Dugong (Dugong dugong), Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus), Blue Whale (Balaenoptera musculus), Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus), Sei Whale (Balaenoptera borealis), Bryde's Whale (Balaenoptera edeni), Short-finned Pilot Whale (Globicephala macro), Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin (Sousa chinensis), Striped Dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), Spinner Dolphin (Stenella longirostris),Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis), Bottle-nosed Dolphin (Tursiops truncates), False Killer Whale Pseudorca crassidens,- Whale Shark, (Rhincodon typus) and birds – Spot billed pelican, Oriental darter, Lesser flamingo, White ibis and Painted stork.
(Bird List from Dr. Balachander of the Bombay Natural History Society who is based in the region- these are near threatened IUCN status)
Ceteaceans in Palk Bay and Gulf of Mannar (From “A Catalogue of Indian Marine Mammal Records” by Kumaran Sathasivam 2004)
Acknowledging that this project area has unique historic, cultural and economic importance to the people from India and Sri Lanka, in addition to providing essential living marine resources for more than 500,000 fishersfolk in India and Sri Lanka;
Concerned that the Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project (SSCP), will involve dredging and maintaining a 89 km long channel, which will be 300 meters wide and 12 meters deep in 3 segments across the Gulf of Mannar to allow passage of ships up to 30,000 DWT which will unquestionably cause changes to the sediment flow, oceanographic parameters, nutrient cycles and irreversible damage to critical marine habitats, endangered and migratory species, within the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay. The globally significant and endemic species of this biodiverse region stands threatened.
Conscious that the proposed project will be within 6km of India's first and largest Biosphere Reserve, which is internationally recognized within the framework of UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme.
Recalling that Biosphere Reserves are nominated by national governments under the UNESCO's MAB Programme to “reduce biodiversity loss; improve livelihoods and enhance social, economic and cultural conditions for environmental sustainability”.
Aware that various documents fundamental for the justification of the SSCP, such as the EIA report, Detailed Project Report, Technical Feasibility and the Economic Analysis report, have been criticised by several experts in environmental science, earth sciences, oceanography, geology, naval hydrography, marine biology, environmental policy, law, economics, and maritime navigation who have concluded that the environmental and social impacts on the biodiversity of the region, including endangered or threatened migratory species and their habitats as well as the financial viability of the project have not been adequately assessed or predicted.
Further acknowledging that analyses of the project by economic, shipping and marine navigation experts conclude that previous cost-benefit analyses and financial feasibility studies have not adequately or accurately forecast the costs to potential SSCP users, thereby questioning the project’s economic viability;
Concerned that this project will have severe, deleterious impacts on the above mentioned endangered and threatened migratory species and their habitats, local marine and coastal biodiversity, fisheries and marine related livelihoods of communities in the region of Palk Bay and the Gulf of Mannar;
Recognizing the strong public opinion and opposition against this project from local fisher communities as well as civil society due to its implications on the environment, ecology and the local livelihood as articulated in the prayers of the petitions being heard in the Supreme Court of India [Special Leave Petitions (SLP) (Civil) Nos. 19176 of 2005 and SLP (Civil) 20758 of 2005];
The Signatory States to the IOSEA Marine Turtle Memorandum of Understanding
Urge that a comprehensive regional environmental impact assessment study be carried out by an independent agency to determine the likely impacts of the project on the environment within the contiguous marine and terrestrial territories of India and Sri Lanka, including all endangered and threatened migratory species and their habitats, and a report prepared for public consultation in India, Sri Lanka, and other States likely to be affected before any further construction activities related to the SSCP are taken forward;
Urge that a comprehensive and independent economic and financial feasibility analysis be carried out by an independent agency any further construction activities related to the SSCP are taken forward;
Urge that these analyses take into account views and opinions of various relevant inter-governmental bodies and agencies, including, but not limited to, CMS, UNESCO, UNEP, FAO and IMO, and also take into account written statements from various community institutions (such as village committees, traditional panchayats and gram panchayats) of each coastal village in the area of influence on the project;
Urge that the above documents are translated into the local languages and disseminated to communities and civil society for public consultation and for the purpose of conducting fresh public hearings in India and Sri Lanka on the SSCP to assess the full environmental and economic implications of the project.
Dear all,
Please find the above draft resolution on proposed Sethusamudram Canal which will be adopted by the Fifth Meeting of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation and Management of Marine Turtles and their Habitats of the Indian Ocean and South-East Asia (Bali, 20-23 August 2008). For Sri Lankan conservationists and politicians, this document may be with great importance.
Kind regards
Thushan Kapurusinghe
Project Leader - Turtle Conservation Project (TCP)
Marine Turtle Specialist - IUCN/SSC-MTSG
http://tamilsforjustice.blogspot.com/2008/08/resolution-on-sethusamudram-ship-canal.html
Monday, August 18, 2008
Setu project: secret meeting and survey by Shipping Ministry and other officials
Review of alternative channel in Setusamudram
Tamil daily: Dinamalar, 18 Aug. 2008
A group of Delhi officials visited Dhanushkodi and nearby areas to review the alternative channel and alignment 4 for Setusamudram project. Supreme Court had ordered the review of dredging a channel through in Dhanushkodi sea waters without damaging the shoal banks forming the Rama Setu.
Accordingly, the Centre had ordered such a review by a committee. Many organizations had demanded that while selecting the alternative channel path protection of environment, of aquatic fauna, assurance of the livelihood of fisherfolk had to be ensured. In this context, Revenue and Land Survey department officials are already engaged for the last two days. to survey the land allotted by Tamil Nadu Government consisting of 2,500 acres starting from Rameshwaram temple to Arical (erosion point) Munai of Dhanukodi, for the Setusamudram Project,
To indicate that survey has been done, between Dhanushkodi and Arical Munai, flagposts have been erected. In this situation, officials led by the Secretary of Shipping Minister, Govt. of India, AP Sharma visited the areas from Mandapam using the helicopter of Navy Coast Guard. The areas visited were: Kodanda Ramar temple, Dhanushkodi, Arical Munai.
Later, the team reviewed with the officials the alternative channel 4. Subsequently, the team also visited the sandbanks of Rama Setu in Dhanushkodi sea waters. In this secretly conducted visit and review, Senior official of Setusamudram Corporation, Srinivasa Kannan, Ramanathapuram Collector Kirloshkumar and other officials of different departments participated.
சேது சமுத்திர கால்வாய் மாற்றுப்பாதைக்கு ஆய்வு
ஆகஸ்ட் 18,2008,00:00 IST (Dinamalar, 18 Aug. 2008)
http://img.dinamalar.com/data/images_news/tblSambavamnews_27872866393.jpg
ராமேஸ்வரம்: சேது சமுத்திர கால்வாய் மாற்றுப்பாதை மற்றும் நான்காவது வழித்தடம் குறித்து டெல்லி அதிகாரிகள் குழுவினர் நேற்று தனுஷ்கோடி உள்ளிட்ட பகுதிகளைப் பார்வையிட்டு ஆய்வு செய்தனர். சேது சமுத்திரத் திட்ட கால்வாய் தோண்ட தனுஷ்கோடி கடலில் அமைந்துள்ள ராமர் பாலம் மணல் திட்டுகளைச் சேதப்படுத்தாமல் மாற்று வழிகுறித்து ஆய்வு செய்ய சுப்ரீம் கோர்ட் உத்தரவிட்டது.
அதன்படி மாற்றுவழியைத் தேர்வு செய்ய சேது சமுத்திரத் திட்ட கழகத்துக்கு மத்திய அரசு உத்தரவிட்டது. மாற்று வழி தேர்வு செய்யப்படும் போது சுற்றுசூழல், கடல் வாழ் உயிரினங்கள், மீனவர்கள் வாழ்நிலை பாதிக்காத வகையில் வழித்தடம் அமைய பல்வேறு அமைப்புகள் கோரிக்கை விடுத்துள்ளன. இதனிடையே ஏற்கனவே சேது சமுத்திர கால்வாய் திட்டத்துக்காக ராமேஸ்வரம் கோதண்டராமர் கோவில் முதல் தனுஷ்கோடி அரிச்சல்முனை வரை தமிழக அரசு வழங்கிய இரண்டாயிரத்து 500 ஏக்கர் நிலத்தை சர்வே செய்யும் பணியில் வருவாய் மற்றும் நில அளவீட்டுத் துறையினர் கடந்த இரண்டு நாட்களாக ஈடுபட்டு வருகின்றனர்.
சர்வே செய்த அடையாளத்துக்காக தனுஷ்கோடி முதல் அரிச்சல்முனை வரை கொடிகளை நட்டு வைத்துள்ளனர். இந்நிலையில், நேற்று டெல்லியிலிருந்து வந்த மத்திய அரசின் கப்பல் போக்குவரத்துத் துறைச் செயலர் ஏ.பி.சர்மா தலைமையிலான அதிகாரிகள் குழுவினர் மண்டபத்திலிருந்து கடலோரக்காவல் படைக்குச் சொந்தமான ஹோவர்கிராப்ட் கப்பலில் சென்று கோதண்டராமர் கோவில், தனுஷ்கோடி, அரிச்சல்முனை கடற்கரை ஆகிய பகுதிகளைப் பார்வையிட்டனர்.
பின் அதிகாரிகளுடன் சேதுக்கால்வாய் தோண்டுவதற்கு மாற்றுப்பாதையான நான்காவது வழித்தடம் குறித்து ஆய்வு செய்தனர். இதைத் தொடர்ந்து தனுஷ்கோடி கடலில் ராமர் பாலம் மணல்திட்டு பகுதிகளையும் பார்வையிட்டனர். ரகசியமாக நடத்தப்பட்ட இந்த ஆய்வில் சேது சமுத்திர கப்பல் கால்வாய் திட்ட கழக பொது மேலாளர் சீனிவாச கண்ணன், ராமநாதபுரம் கலெக்டர் கிர்லோஷ்குமார் உட்பட பல்துறை அதிகாரிகள் கலந்து கொண்டனர்.
http://dinamalar.com/Sambavamnewsdetail.asp?News_id=4113&cls=&ncat=TN
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