The state forest department carried out an inspection atthe site of alleged large scale felling of mangroves at Neura followingcomplaints by the locals. It is understood that the Goa State BiodiversityBoard (GSBB) had reportedly requested the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authorityto initiate action in the matter and submit a report regarding the illegalityas it involved extensive clearance of mangroves in the riverine area of theRiver Zuari. The importance of mangroves can never be underestimated. Mangrovesserve as breeding grounds for aquatic life and provide vital ecosystem servicesto coastal fishing communities. The sturdy root systems of mangrove trees helpform a natural barrier against violent storm surges and floods. River and landsediments are trapped by the roots, which protects coastline areas and slowserosion. This filtering process also prevents harmful sediment from reachingcoral reefs. Mangroves maintain water quality and clarity, filtering pollutantsand trapping sediments originating from land. They are home to an incrediblearray of species. Mangroves are biodiversity hotspots. They provide nesting andbreeding habitat for fish and shellfish, migratory birds, and sea turtles. Allforms of marine life start from mangroves. The life of fishing communitiesdepends on them. Hence it becomes extremely important to protect the mangroves.Citizens in the state need to act as watchdog and report to the authorities ifthere is large scale felling of mangroves in their locality.
