In Chennai, a new mangrove belt is sprouting at the Adyar Estuary. The State Forest Department has planted 5,000 saplings on five hectares as part of its Mangrove Mission. Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary for Environment, shared the project’s visuals online, calling it a “green jewel” for the city’s biodiversity. This initiative aims to boost Chennai’s defenses against cyclones and rising sea levels.
This mangrove plantation is located near the Broken Bridge on Battle of Adyar Island. It features a creative fishbone design with three main canals and 62 smaller ones to manage tidal flow effectively. To protect the young plants from grazing, officials installed 582 meters of protective netting, made from eco-friendly materials like recycled fishing nets and old sarees. This green barrier will help prevent erosion and support local marine life.
The chosen plant species—Rhizophora mucronata, Rhizophora apiculata, Avicennia marina, and Excoecaria agallocha—are well-known for stabilizing shorelines and fostering biodiversity. These plants not only help with erosion but also create habitats for various wildlife, including migratory birds.
The project kicked off on July 25 to honor the International Day for the Conservation of Mangroves. Finance and Environment Minister Thangam Thennarasu joined officials and volunteers for the planting ceremony. According to Sahu, this green belt will act as an essential carbon sink while providing shelter for diverse marine organisms. She emphasized Chennai’s focus on climate resilience through this initiative.
Experts highlight the importance of mangroves in combating climate change. These ecosystems can absorb up to four times as much carbon dioxide as terrestrial forests. A recent report by the UN indicates that mangrove restoration can significantly reduce coastal vulnerability and enhance local fisheries. As social media buzzes with support for the project, many see it as a crucial step toward a sustainable future for Chennai.
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mangrove belt, Adyar Estuary, Forest Department
