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Grassroute starts mangrove nursery

Today marked an important milestone as we successfully completed the cutting of bamboo poles. Looking ahead, our focus will shift towards the next phase of our journey. In the days to come, we will diligently fill the bamboo pots with nutrient-rich soil and organic fertilizers, preparing the perfect environment for planting the precious Mangrove seeds.

In a significant stride towards our mission, we have embarked on the second phase of establishing our very own Mangrove Nursery. In November of last year, we took the initial steps by sourcing bamboo poles from the banks of the Periyar River in Uliyannoor, Aluva.

Admittedly, the journey thus far has not been without its challenges. The prolonged silence from many of our members was a testament to the impact of the Covid virus, which had affected them personally. However, overcoming these obstacles, we recently convened a council meeting, where a unanimous decision was reached to initiate the preliminary works of the nursery.

We convened a meeting at the residence of Jose, where the bamboo poles had been thoughtfully preserved. Promptly commencing our endeavours at 3:30 pm, we skillfully cut the poles into smaller pieces, laying the foundation for the nurturing of Mangrove saplings that will eventually grace our coastal regions.

Today marked an important milestone as we successfully completed the cutting of bamboo poles. Looking ahead, our focus will shift towards the next phase of our journey. In the days to come, we will diligently fill the bamboo pots with nutrient-rich soil and organic fertilizers, preparing the perfect environment for planting the precious Mangrove seeds.

Importance of restoration of mangrove forests.

The necessity for the restoration of Mangrove forests in these fragile coastal areas cannot be understated. These resilient ecosystems serve as vital coastal buffers, shielding our communities from the wrath of storms, floods, and tidal waves. Mangroves play an instrumental role in preserving the delicate balance between land and sea, mitigating erosion, and providing habitat for diverse marine life.

Our commitment to the establishment of a Mangrove Nursery is fueled by the understanding that these forests are not merely symbolic of environmental vitality but are crucial for the very survival of our coastal communities. Through dedicated efforts in nurturing and propagating Mangrove saplings, we can help rejuvenate and protect these invaluable ecosystems, fostering a sustainable future for both nature and humankind.

As we embark on this new chapter, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our members for their unwavering dedication and resilience. Together, let us forge ahead, nurturing the roots of restoration, and ensuring the enduring presence of Mangroves along our treasured coastal landscapes.

By Thomas Vazhappilly

Thomas is the founding secretary of Grassroute. He lives in Kochi, Kerala.