Mangrove Park proposed for eco-tourism in Goa

Across the world, 59 species of mangroves have been recorded, out of which India has 45 species. The saline waters in Goa have 12 species and these must be saved as the mangroves are essential for the marine eco-system. The forests are considered to be important when the question of environment protection comes to fore. In the similar manner, the mangroves that grow in moderate climate (semi-hot and cool) form an important link in the biodiversity chain. The mangroves that grow in-between the land and the sea help in preserving more than 16 varieties of bio-diversities.
The mangroves are useful in preventing soil erosion and reduce the enormity of cyclonic storms, tsunamis and invasion of the sea waves. The marine life including fish, sea shells and crabs, lay their eggs at the bottom of the mangroves which are considered as safe incubation centres for marine animals. Maintaining the aqua culture, they are also home to birds and bees. There are also medicinal benefits from mangroves. "The mangroves are important link in the bio-diversity chain and we must protect them and save from getting destroyed," urged Dr Arvind Untavale, executive secretary and researcher at Mangroves Society of India, who was speaking at a national seminar held recently in Goa on the occasion of 25 years of Mangrove Society of India. Dr Untavale appealed to the Goa government to preserve and conserve the 76 acre land from Patto to Santa Cruz as a Mangrove Park. "If this is done it would help our eco-system to sustain and also boost the eco-tourism just like Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary at Chorao," said Dr Untavale.
The Mangrove Society of India had earlier proposed to the government to convert the reserved area of mangrove forests between Patto and Santa Cruz into a Mangrove Park and also given funds to do so, disclosed Dr Untavale who suggested that there could be towers erected for bird watching in this area. Arrangements for boat riding and footpaths for walking could be constructed and even a jetty could be built. These facilities would encourage the people to visit these mangrove forests. Study tours could be arranged from time to time for nature lovers, eco-tourists, researchers and students. Bio-diversity studies can be carried on here. "This initiative would generate jobs for many, it could be a new attraction for tourists and could also be a source of livelihood for the locals," felt Dr Untavale.
The seminar further looked at all the mangroves in India which are approximately 3,15,000 ha out of which about 65,000 ha are along the west coast. The Gujarat and Kerala coasts have the most degraded mangroves, while Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka have occasional luxuriant pockets. Seven major rivers including Mandovi and Zuari, along with the Cumbarjua Canal form the largest estuarine complex in Goa. Along the entire course of these rivers, there exists an intricate network of creeks and backwaters. A luxuriant growth of mangroves (some of which are degraded) and associated swamps can be observed along most of the water bodies within the estuarine reaches. The most extensive backwaters with mangroves are located along the East of Panaji.
The total area covered by the estuaries in Goa including the major Mandovi Zuari estuarine complex is approximately 12,000 ha of which the mangrove forest occupy 2000 ha. About 900 ha of mangroves are found along the Zuari estuary, 700 ha along the Mandovi estuary and 200 ha along the Cumbarjua canal.
There are a lot of mangrove forest areas in Goa - Patto, Merces, Santa Cruz, Cortalim, etc. All these are gradually filled and illegal constructions are coming up in their place. Dr Untavale warned that regions that destroy their mangroves will eventually face ecological disturbances.