The SUNDARBAN, largest mangrove ecosystem in the world. Limited scientific knowledge on the spatial ecology of the mangroves in this world heritage ecosystem has been a major impediment to conservation efforts. In West Bengal, Sundarban extend over 4260 square km. across the south and north 24 parganas. A large part of the sundarbans, was severely battered due to cyclone Amphan on May 20.
Since 1927, the Indian Forest Act has been applied to the mangrove forest of Sundarbans, which has been declared as a reserved area. The Environment (protection) Act, 1986 has had a crucial role in the conservation and management of mangrove ecosystem. Discovery India have partnered with Govt. of West Bengal to save the world's only mangrove tiger habitat. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that the state govt. will plant 5crore mangrove trees in Amphan-hit Sundarbans region within one month.
Reasons to protect mangrove forest for the future:
- Carbon sinks
Mangroves absorb carbon at a rate two to four times greater than mature tropical forest and store three to five times more carbon per equivalent area than tropical forest. Research shows that coastal mangroves outperform most other forest in their capacity to store carbon.
- Water quality
Mangroves are essential to maintaining water quality with their dense network of roots and surrounding vegetation, they filter and trap sediments, heavy metals, and other pollutants. This ability to retain sediments flowing from upstream prevents contamination of downstream waterways.
- Sustainable development
Mangrove forest in Sundarbans have an untapped potential for sustainable revenue generating initiatives including ecotourism, fishing and other recreational activities.
- Biodiversity
Sundarbans is known for its wide range of fauna including 300 bird species, 250 fishes, 350 species of vascular plants and the Bengal tiger and other threatened species such as estuatine crocodile and the indian python.
- Coastal defence
The sturdy root systems of mangrove trees help form a natural barrier against violent storm surges and floods. River and land sediments is trapped by the roots, which protects coastline areas and slows erosion. This filtering process also prevents harmful sediment reaching coral reefs.
Sundarbans mangrove forest is extremely productive ecosystem, providing critical services that benefit all of us. Protecting natural ecosystems like mangrove forests not only helps preserve biodiversity, it also helps preserve a vital resource for local communities.
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