A mangrove is a shrub or tree that grows in coastal saline
or brackish water.
Mangroves are salt-tolerant trees and are adapted to live in
harsh coastal conditions. They contain a complex salt filtration system and a
complex root system to cope with saltwater immersion and wave action.
A 2022 study on losses and gains of tidal wetlands estimates
a 3,700 km2 (1,400 sq mi) net decrease in global mangroves which is worrying
hence a Mangrove boardwalk in Karnataka to educate the general public is
heartening. There is interest in mangrove restoration for several reasons.
Mangroves support sustainable coastal and marine ecosystems. They protect
nearby areas from tsunamis and extreme weather events. Mangrove forests are
also effective at carbon sequestration and storage and mitigate climate change.
As the effects of climate change become more severe, mangrove ecosystems are
expected to help local ecosystems adapt and be more resilient to changes like
extreme weather and sea level rise.
Unfortunately, mangroves are being destroyed for ‘infrastructure development’. Paved roads and Bullet train tracks will replace the life saving mangroves. It is time we give our ‘infrastructure development‘ a rethink.
The Mangrove boardwalk near Honnavar is interesting but I wish there were more informative boards placed along the walk to educate the layman. It seems to be more of a site for pre wedding shoots now!
