West Bengal Environment Minister Manoj Kumar Oraon has vowed to restore hundreds of acres of mangrove forests lost to illegal encroachments and fish ponds in the Sundarbans.

Key Takeaways

  • Hundreds of acres of mangroves in the Sundarbans have been lost to illegal fish ponds (bheries).
  • West Bengal holds 42.45% of India's total mangrove cover.
  • Experts are calling for a dedicated Mangrove Management and Conservation Authority.

In a decisive move to protect one of the world's most fragile ecosystems, West Bengal Environment and Forest Minister Manoj Kumar Oraon has pledged to restore mangrove forests lost to illegal encroachments. Following a visit to an island where over 100 hectares of mangroves had been cleared, the Minister highlighted the alarming trend of converting forest land into shallow fish ponds.

Speaking at a workshop organized by the Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS), Mr. Oraon noted that while the Sundarbans may appear dense from the water bodies, the interior of many islands has been hollowed out by encroachment. He specifically cited Kripakhali as an example where lush greenery has been replaced by fisheries.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the degradation of the Sundarbans' mangrove shield significantly increases the vulnerability of coastal populations to extreme weather events. As a natural barrier against cyclones like Amphan and Yaas, the loss of these forests is a direct threat to regional climate security.

The restoration of mangroves is not just an ecological necessity but a critical component of disaster risk reduction for coastal India.

A report by NEWS revealed that at least 600 hectares of mangroves have been encroached upon for bheries (shallow fish ponds) across just 10 surveyed locations, suggesting the actual damage is likely much higher.

Historical Background

The Sundarbans is a unique global ecosystem, being the only mangrove forest inhabited by Royal Bengal Tigers. Currently, the region hosts approximately 100 tigers and between 234 to 264 saltwater crocodiles. It remains a critical frontline against the increasing frequency of climatic extremes in the Bay of Bengal.

Did You Know?: West Bengal accounts for a massive 42.45% of India's total mangrove cover, spanning approximately 2,119.16 sq. km.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What is causing the loss of mangroves in the Sundarbans?
Answer: The primary cause is illegal encroachment for the construction of shallow fish ponds, known locally as bheries.

Question 2: Why are mangroves important for the Sundarbans region?
Answer: They act as a vital natural barrier against cyclones and provide a habitat for endangered species like tigers and saltwater crocodiles.