Indeed, rock sand is even better than coral sand as a construction material. We must also tell you that Government will benefit from the project, as the Promoter will stock their sand on a marsh at the main port, Port Louis, which they will return to Government after selling their sand - the marsh will have been reclaimed and be worth a fortune, as a new site for port development. We note that this marsh is currently used by migrant wading bird species as summer feeding grounds. However, the Government and the Promoter say the effects will be small and acceptable . They contain popular diving sites used and appreciated by tourists and local divers.
Fishermen currently exploit the site using artisanal traps and lines.
Both these groups are alarmed at the developments. The tourist industry is concerned that beaches will be eroded, as this is already occurring at several sites around the island and that marine life, a tourist attractant, will deteriorate. We thank you sincerely for your assistance and will pass on any further information on this project which you might want. We have learnt that a private company is about to start dredging coral sand in Mauritius in massive quantities. We believe that such a project will have environmental consequences which might be detrimental to the ecology of your country's marine environment, which comprises part of our world marine heritage.