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Mangroves Threatened by Thane Road Project
23 Oct
Summary
- Thane coastal road project may harm 680 mangrove trees.
- Mangroves are vital for coastal defense and carbon sinks.
- Global initiatives like MISHTI aim to conserve mangroves.
The Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority has approved a coastal road project's alignment through an eco-sensitive zone, potentially impacting nearly 700 mangrove trees. This decision reignites debates on balancing infrastructure development with mangrove conservation, despite the project still requiring further environmental clearances.
Mangroves are tropical salt-tolerant forests vital for biodiversity and coastal protection. Their unique adaptations, such as aerial roots and viviparous germination, allow them to thrive in harsh saline conditions. These ecosystems are significant carbon sinks, storing vast amounts of carbon in their soils, and are essential for the livelihoods of coastal communities through fisheries and resource harvesting.
India's mangrove cover is approximately 4,992 sq. km, with West Bengal and Gujarat holding the largest areas. Iconic mangrove forests like the Sundarbans and Bhitarkanika play critical roles in supporting unique flora and fauna. National and international efforts, including India's MISHTI scheme and the Mangrove Alliance for Climate, are actively working towards the conservation and restoration of these crucial coastal ecosystems.
