CANADALAND ‘Pave the Arctic,’ They Said. ‘It’ll be Fine,’ They Said
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Jul 15, 2025 Jane George, a seasoned reporter with CBC North and Nunatsiak News, delves into the contentious Grays Bay Port and Road project linking the Northwest Territories to Nunavut. The conversation highlights the dual-edged sword of infrastructure development: economic opportunities versus environmental concerns. Local hunters raise alarms about potential harm to caribou habitats, while discussions surrounding Arctic security and indigenous perspectives bring depth to the debate. Will the benefits outweigh the risks? The future of this vital project hangs in the balance.
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Grays Bay Project Overview
- The Grays Bay Port and Road is a 230-kilometer all-season road and deepwater port connecting Nunavut to the Northwest Territories and the Northwest Passage.
- It is Inuit-led, promises economic and security benefits, and faces significant environmental concerns.
Hunter on Caribou and Roads
- Jeffrey Niptanatiak describes how caribou avoid roads and how new infrastructure scares animals away, causing them to change migration routes.
- He has seen similar impacts before from other mines affecting the land and wildlife routes.
Arctic Accessibility and Security Concerns
- The Arctic is becoming more accessible due to melting ice, increasing security concerns with unknown vessels entering the Northwest Passage.
- Lack of surveillance in the region allows unregulated arrivals, posing challenges to sovereignty and safety.