The vulnerability of Island ecosystem from the natural stressors like cyclones, sea surges volcanic, tectonic activities, tsunami, subduction of lands and the ingress of sea water in the hinterland etc. are well known. The low lying islands, like Nicobar group of islands and some of the Lakshadweep islands like Andrott, Kalpeni and Minicoy are particularly more vulnerable. These natural stressors not only cause untold destruction of land, lives and property but also change the prospect of livelihood of farmers and fishers permanently. An apt example of the same could be seen from the aftermath of the December 26, 2004, Tsunami. This also demonstrated a living laboratory of sea level rise and its impact on the plantation crop, paddy and vegetable cultivation, livestock etc. There was apparent change in the distribution and abundance in fin fishes and shell fishes. Even mangroves got affected due to permanent inundation. Over the years, there is also a perceptible change in the origin of cyclones from Andaman Sea. Cyclones are becoming more frequent and while traversing its path to mainland, they are also hitting Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI).
There is a saying that "Mangrove protects them, those who protect mangrove" Similar sentiment holds good for coral ecosystem also. The scale of disaster to some extent can be mitigated by the bio-shields such as Mangroves and corals; hence these ecosystems needs to be preserved and protected. Coral reefs are the most diverse and fragile marine ecosystem. A healthy coral reef supports rich and diverse marine flora and fauna. A healthy coral reef crests near the surface and serves as a major natural breakwater - reducing, most wave energy and helping to protect coastal communities.
Post tsunami studies have revealed that the disaster caused loss/damages to the fishing boats, landing centres, harbours, cold storages, ice-plants and other infrastructure, in addition to loss of life of 69 fishers in ANI. About 622 local made dongles, 318 engine fitted boats were fully damaged, requiring replacements. 471 local made dongles and 294 engine fitted boats required repairs and three mechanised boat were lost. Loss and repair of Fishing boat and engines were amounting to Rs.705 lakhs. In addition to this, fishing gears and marketing implements were also lost in some areas. Fishing gears loss amounting to Rs.614 lakhs Altogether 570 Fisher houses were fully damaged, 695 partially damaged causing financial loss of 813 lakhs. Loss of house hold and belonging to the tune of 190 lakhs. Loss from fish escaping from fresh water ponds amounting to 10 lakhs. The paper deals with the mitigation measures evolved for the disaster management specific to island condition.