This project proposes to build capacities at two levels of government, the village level volunteers (VLV) at the community or settlement level and the emergency operations centre (EOC) at the district level. The former will be trained in field survey methods for collection of spatial and socio-economic data for vulnerability mapping. This training will be put into effect immediately and surveys will be carried out for vulnerable coastal settlements as identified by the Pondicherry government.

The first phase of activities under the Post Tsunami Environment Initiative (PTEI) formed post the December 26, 2004, tsunami by the UNTRS/UNDP identified serval issue of concern along the fragile coastal habitats. The need to assess the short and long-term environmental impacts and their effect on coastal communities, was recognised. The consequences of the rehabilitation efforts themselves on the natural resilience of ecological and social systems were questioned. This was even more imperative given that coastal landscapes have remained poorly understood.

This project reviewed the current management structure and functions of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust and explored potential means and changes required to ensure its survival as a robust institution facilitating a long term and sustainable use of resources in this biodiversity hot spot.