Mangrove Hero Fights for Rare Plant's Survival

For over four decades, Parayil Rajan, known as Kandal Rajan, has championed the protection of Kannur's mangrove ecosystems. His current focus is safeguarding the rare Kannampotti (Excoecaria agallocha) mangrove variety, which he fears is on the brink of disappearing from the district's tidal areas. Rajan has established a home nursery at Thavam, where he is collecting seeds and nurturing over 2,000 seedlings to prevent the species from vanishing.

He highlights the unique germination process of Kannampotti, noting its ability to grow in various water conditions and muddy terrains. Beyond preserving this specific plant, Rajan's conservation work is extensive. Having grown up as a fisherman, he understands mangroves' crucial role in supporting fish and prawn populations. He claims to have planted approximately 100,000 mangrove saplings along the Pazhayangadi river and is actively removing plastic waste entangled in the roots.

The Kerala Forest Department recognizes Kannur as having the largest mangrove coverage in the state, emphasizing their importance as natural coastal defenses. Forest officials acknowledge the decline of Excoecaria agallocha due to habitat destruction and the challenges in obtaining seedlings of certain mangrove varieties. Rajan continues to offer his expertise and seedlings to anyone interested in planting mangroves, aiming to ensure this vital species thrives.