Mangroves are a unique group of tree and shrub species that thrive in coastal intertidal zones. Their dense root systems are essential for stabilizing coastlines, protecting against erosion, and providing vital habitats for various marine and terrestrial species.
Mangroves play an essential role in safeguarding coastal cities from hazards associated with climate change, including sea level rise, coastal erosion, flooding, and storm surges. Additionally, they help mitigate the Urban Heat Island Effect, sequester atmospheric carbon, and regulate local climate conditions.
The rapid pace of urbanization and development activities, such as extensive land reclamation, infrastructure construction, and waste dumping, has resulted in significant losses of mangrove cover in coastal cities. This degradation undermines the protective functions of mangroves, making urban areas more susceptible to natural disasters.
In Mumbai, extensive land reclamation and various development projects have led to considerable reductions in mangrove cover, diminishing the city's resilience to flooding and other coastal hazards. Similarly, Chennai has faced severe flooding, partly due to the loss of wetlands and increased concrete surfaces, which underscores the critical need to maintain mangrove and wetland ecosystems to avert such disasters.
While replanting mangroves is a beneficial initiative, young mangrove forests cannot immediately replicate the ecosystem services provided by mature forests. Mature mangroves offer superior protection against coastal hazards, highlighting the necessity of preserving existing stands alongside replanting efforts.
The public can significantly contribute to mangrove conservation by supporting restoration projects, engaging in community clean-up activities, advocating for sustainable development policies that protect mangroves, and raising awareness about their importance for coastal resilience and biodiversity.
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