Date:30/04/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/04/30/stories/2007043003191300.htm

National

Meet on Antarctica

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: A 12-day meeting of scientists, environmentalists, legal experts and policy-makers from over 40 countries will start here on Monday to discuss issues relating to scientific activity in Antarctica and its impact on its fragile environment.

The promotion of tourism in the ice continent by some countries has become a cause for concern. India is opposed to the region being used for commercial activity such as tourism.

Minister for Science and Technology Kapil Sibal has said India wants another research station in the Larseman Hills region of Antarctica. Some countries are reportedly opposed to this as they want the area to be free of any human activity.

The 30th Antarctica Consultative Meet here will discuss, among other things, the report of the mandatory Comprehensive Environment Evaluation Report.

The main concern of participants is expected to be focussed on the protection and safety of Antarctica operations and the environmental concern for a region threatened by global warming.