Mangroves of Mumbai
Although declared Protected Forests by the Maharashtra Forest Department, we can only hope that the land is not converted into a concrete jungle. By doing this, we would be exposing the city to flooding and possibly even be disturbing the local rainfall, temperature and weather patterns. The mangroves of Mumbra-Diva have already been destroyed. Those left in Thane/Mumbai/Navi Mumbai must be protected all costs.
Every day, we use the Eastern Express Highway to commute to our work places further south towards Mumbai or in the western suburbs. We get so used to the daily routine that most of us do not even a cast a glance to our left as we move along the highway. Each one of us is busy–some reading the newspapers, some completing last minute official work and some of us simply having a short nap. The two-wheeler riders -well, they are totally focused on avoiding potholes and dumpers carrying material for land-fills near Vikhroli. On the way back, it is more of the same. But, if you look to your left, you are sure to notice the vast expanse of mangroves, extending from Thane almost up to Ghatkopar, which help regulate the tide and prevent flooding of the city. Deeper inside, adjoining the creek and the mangroves, are the mud flats where we have our colorful annual visitors–the flamingoes. The entire area is home to a variety of plants, birds and small mammals, like the fox and mongoose. Several species of snakes are also common here.
The mangroves have been here for centuries, long before humans shifted to these parts of the city. As we all know, the longer a species is dominant in a region, the greater its influence on the local environment. The mangroves therefore play an important role in influencing the local weather patterns and ecology.
On some part of these lands, several companies hold long leases for producing salt. These lands are coveted by developers. Every one of them is lobbying for grant of exemption from CRZ restrictions in developing these lands. The dumping operations are already choking the mangroves leading to a slow but gradual destruction.
Although declared Protected Forests by the Maharashtra Forest Department, we can only hope that the land is not converted into a concrete jungle. By doing this, we would be exposing the city to flooding and possibly even be disturbing the local rainfall, temperature and weather patterns. The mangroves of Mumbra-Diva have already been destroyed. Those left in Thane/Mumbai/Navi Mumbai must be protected all costs.
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