Mangrove mission for fish, tourism & flood protection

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB), in collaboration with the Pothencode block panchayat, has launched a mission to preserve the rich fish resources of Kadinamkulam Lake by developing 50 hectares of mangroves along its banks. The initiative also aims to harness the lake's tourism potential, boosted by the upcoming nearby coastal highway, and to curb rampant encroachments.Recently, the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) introduced a tourism circuit connecting the lakes of Kadinamkulam, Anchuthengu, and Akathumuri, offering a pollution-free boat cruise through the backwaters. Once the mangroves mature, tourists will experience a scenic environment reminiscent of Munroe Island in Kollam, according to Hariprasad, president of the Pothencode block panchayat.Using Rs 5 lakh sanctioned by KSBD, the panchayat planted 1,000 mangrove saplings along the banks and on various islands of the lake at Channankara and Azhoor. Additionally, the panchayat sowed 1,000 seeds a couple of weeks ago. The sprouted saplings will be planted on International Mangrove Day on July 26, according to officials.To create a mangrove forest on 10 hectares, approximately 2,500 plants are needed. The mission aims to plant 2,500 saplings annually, achieving the goal of 50 hectares of mangroves within five years, stated the president.As the largest inland water body in the district, covering an area of 3.25 lakh sqkm, Kadinamkulam Lake boasts a rich aquatic ecosystem, that qualifies it for Ramsar site designation. However, it currently has minimal mangrove cover and is becoming increasingly saline.The lake once supported 30 varieties of fish, including pearl spot (Karimeen), river prawn (Aattukonchu), Kanambu (mullet), tilapia, and crab. According to a study by environmental activist VK Madhusoodanan, the lake used to yield 500 tonnes of fish annually, but this has decreased to less than 100 tonnes due to saline intrusion. Local fishermen reported catching sea fish like sardine, mackerel, and tuna in the lake, while the availability of traditional lake fish has significantly declined.Madhusoodanan said mangroves could help rejuvenate the aquatic ecosystem, benefiting fish, birds, and other organisms. “Polluted water from Parvathyputhanar affects the lake’s ecosystem. Mangroves can reduce pollution levels and combat sea erosion, especially in estuaries. With the global average sea-level rise at 3mm annually, potentially reaching up to 30mm in estuaries, residents near these areas face severe coastal erosion. Mangroves can play a crucial role in addressing these issues,” he said.

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