Unusual Sea Activity Off Gujarat Coast Raises Concerns
Strange Phenomenon Observed in Arabian Sea
On Monday, an unexpected disturbance was reported in the deep waters of the Arabian Sea near the Gujarat coast, leaving many astonished. The disaster management department of Palghar district received videos from fishermen showing the sea surface appearing to 'boil' like a massive cauldron. According to the fishermen, this unusual activity began suddenly and covered a significant area of the sea. White froth and large bubbles were observed on the water's surface, typically indicative of high pressure or gas release from beneath the water.
Fishermen Report Sudden Activity
A local official from Palghar district reported on Monday that the videos captured by fishermen depict significant agitation in the water, with bubbles surfacing. It appears as though the water is 'boiling,' raising concerns in the area.
Vivekanand Kadam, head of the Palghar district disaster management cell, emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into this incident. He stated, “The observed disturbance is highly unusual and requires immediate attention from specialized marine and industrial agencies.”
Kadam noted that this region is close to major maritime transport routes and fishing zones. Consequently, there are fears that this phenomenon could be due to gas leaks from the seabed, underwater geological activities, or leaks from submerged pipelines.
He mentioned that the disaster management cell is coordinating with marine authorities to determine whether this disturbance is a result of natural geological changes or an indication of a man-made industrial incident. As a precaution, ships and fishing boats passing nearby have been advised to exercise extreme caution.
Three Major Theories Behind the Disturbance
Vivekanand Kadam expressed concern over the situation and proposed three primary theories for investigation:
Gas Leakage: There may be natural gas reserves beneath the sea, causing bubbles to rise due to leaks.
Pipeline Malfunction: Several underwater pipelines from oil and gas companies (like ONGC) are laid in this area. There is a suspicion that a crack in one of these pipelines could be causing the pressure.
Geological Activities: Seismic movements or volcanic activities beneath the seabed could also alter the temperature and pressure of the water.
Experts Identify Four Main Risks
Undersea Gas Leak: The most significant concern is a potential leak from the natural gas pipelines laid under the sea. Companies like ONGC have a vast network in this area. If this is indeed a leak, it could lead to fires or major explosions.
Methane Emission: Scientists believe that methane gas accumulated beneath the seabed can sometimes escape due to geological pressure, making the water appear to 'boil.'
Volcanic or Tectonic Activity: Is there a small volcano becoming active beneath the sea? Or has there been a crack in the tectonic plates? Kadam has called for an investigation into these geological changes.
Industrial Discharge: Another possibility is that a large vessel or coastal company has released a significant amount of chemical waste, although the intensity of the bubbles makes this less likely.
Administrative Vigilance and Warnings
Alert for Ships: All commercial vessels and boats passing between Palghar and the Gujarat coast have been advised to steer clear of this 'hotspot.'
Agency Investigations: Marine safety agencies and the Coast Guard are investigating whether there has been a drop in pressure in any pipelines in the area.