For thousands of years, these trees have been silent sentinels to the islands of Goa. They provide the perfect protection to humans as well as to the countless birds and animals living under its embrace. Mangroves are an integral part of the Goan ecosystems and the State houses 16 mangrove species making it one of the best mangrove forests in the country. These extraordinary ecosystems contribute to the wellbeing, food security, and protection of coastal communities worldwide. Mangroves are a group of salt tolerant plants forming complex coastal ecosystems in the inter-tidal regions. They comprise of diverse species of plants and terrestrial and marine animals and birds.
Divar islander Marius Fernandes says, “Besides being a safety net for the island, mangroves brings Eco-tourism with birdwatchers from all over the world travelling to Goa. As an islander, we have a direct connection with the mangroves. In a history of nearly 3000 years, there has not been a flood in Divar and this is one of the few places in the world that is not affected by floods. The mangroves are a walking museum.”
For four years, come rain or shine, Soul Travelling has been organising a morning boat ride for birdwatching enthusiasts to Chorao, another island of Goa. Varun Hedge, a founding member of Soul Travelling informs, “We organise the Nature Trail of Chorao everyday. We receive a lot of Indians who come with their family including children who want to learn more about the mangroves. Fortunately, we don’t see any major changes in the mangroves even though there is an increase in construction. Rajat Betkekar, our team member is also a resident of Chorao and adds more value to the trail.”
On a positive note, last year, the State Forest Department had taken up the initiative of planting 25,000 mangrove trees across Goa with Mankule Island itself being a home to new mangrove trees. “We do keep track of the growth of the plants and there has been a survival rate of 80-85 percent. This June 5, World Environment Day, we planted nearly 20,000 mangrove trees in multiple locations wherever possible. The plantation is based on the nice type of plants as it has to be a low tide when venturing into the water. The Marine Range Officer is involved in checking on the progress of the mangroves. However, some plants get dislodged due to the increased activities especially near the ferry points to the islands, water sports activities and the passage of barges and boats as the tide washes to the shore. We are being hopeful that there will be an increase in the mangrove forests of Goa,” says Anand Jadhav, Deputy Conservator of Forests.