GIS-based fresh assessment of mangrove cover proposed

PANAJI

The State Environment department has proposed conducting a GIS-based fresh assessment of the mangrove cover in Goa for its possible further expansion.

The Mangrove Management Plan, drafted by the department, speaks about promoting eco-tourism activities in the mangroves and to develop an integrated tourism plan and infrastructure that blends with natural surroundings.

The plan, released by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on the occasion of World Environment Day on Thursday, also speaks about regulating fishing activities in the area, apart from identifying new Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

“Historically, Goa's mangrove cover was estimated at 20 sq km in 1983. Due to afforestation programmes and natural regeneration, the Forest Department reported an increase to 26 sq km. However, a 2016 report by the National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) assessed the mangrove cover at 41.11 sq km. There is a recognized discrepancy in these figures,” the study said.

As per NCSCM, North Goa accounts for 33.93 sq km of mangroves, while South Goa has7.19 sq km.

The department proposed to undertake GIS based mapping, a pilot study for identification of Mangroves using UAV-based LiDAR technology by involving local communities.

“Conduct a fresh assessment of the total mangrove area in Goa and the distribution of species. Identifying and demarcating areas for potential expansion of mangrove cover is essential,” the plan said, pointing out that a total of 16 species of mangroves and associated plants have been identified that includes Avicennia, Rhizophora, Sonneratia, and Kandelia.

The department also said that identifying and promoting new MPAs to conserve biodiversity-rich mangrove areas is needed.

The plan speaks about regulating fishing in mangrove areas to prevent over exploitation and destructive practices and protecting and conserving wild stock of local shrimp varieties, oyster and crab culture near mangrove areas.

“These actions aim to enhance mangrove ecosystem integrity, promote sustainable management, and facilitate rational utilization of mangrove resources along the Goa coast,” the department said.