In a significant move for Chennai’s environment, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has planted 20,000 mangrove seedlings along the Buckingham Canal. This initiative, running from 2025 to 2026, aims to restore coastal ecosystems and bolster the city’s resilience to climate change.
Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary for Environment, shared the news on X, describing the project as a way to create a natural barrier while improving ecological balance in the area.
To help these mangroves thrive, officials introduced a “fishbone” canal system. This innovative setup consists of eight main canals and numerous feeder channels, ensuring that saline water flows correctly, which is vital for mangrove health.
The Chennai Forest Division led this effort, with funding support from ICICI Bank as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) program. The restoration is planned in phases, aiming to establish a continuous green belt along the coastal areas.
In the initial phase, the team focused on an island near Hiranandani Apartments along Old Mahabalipuram Road, securing the necessary permissions from the Water Resources Department to proceed.
Last year, about 12,500 mangrove seedlings of six species—like Rhizophora mucronata and Avicennia marina—were planted to cover 20 hectares. Additionally, around 2,500 other coastal species were introduced to strengthen the habitat.
In the second phase, around 5,000 saplings went into the Battle of Adyar Island at the Adyar River’s estuary, including varieties like Rhizophora apiculata. The latest phase has added another 20,000 seedlings of diverse species, aiming to expand the city’s mangrove coverage.
Chennai District Forest Officer V.A. Saravanan emphasized the importance of this initiative. The restoration program not only aims to protect the coastline from storms and rising sea levels but also to enhance biodiversity and improve the city’s ecological stability in the long run.
Recent studies indicate that mangroves can reduce coastal erosion by up to 70% and serve as crucial habitats for marine life. As Chennai moves forward with this project, it aligns with a global trend of regenerating coastal ecosystems to combat climate change. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the vital role these ecosystems play in supporting both local communities and wildlife.
For more on the impact of mangroves on coastal protection, you can explore resources from the UN Environment Programme. These insights underline the necessity of focusing on sustainable practices that nurture our environment while benefiting society.
