Indian Cormorant

Hindi: Pan Kawwa. 

It is of the size of a duck and is jet black in color, with a beak hooked at its tip. It moves along streams and creeks and dives in to catch fish under water. After its catch, it is often found drying itself with outstretched wings. Photograph location: Bhandup mangroves.

Destruction of mangroves

Two weeks ago, in my post on Mangroves, I had assumed that existing government regulations were adequate to protect the mangroves in suburban regions. Unfortunately, the assumption was based on my understanding of the land development laws (refer MMRDA Land Policy). It has now emerged that a large belt of salt-pan land and several acres of mangroves may be completely destroyed by the construction activity in progress for an SEZ (refer article in TOI, Nov 02, 2011, "SEZ will kill mangrove belt, warn experts").

Inspite of existing environment laws, forest land is being converted to residential and industrial use under the guise of development. No one is against development. However, this should not be at the cost of environment. Municipal officials should carry out a thorough investigation to ensure that no laws are circumvented for monetary benefit of a few at the cost of an entire region's ecology. Adverse effects of such destruction of mangroves are very well known and do not need any elaboration here. It is sincerely hoped that the MoEF investigates all cases where industrial permits have been granted and ensures that there are no violations land regulations.