As the monsoon season drew to a close, we embarked on an exciting venture – a pilot project aimed at experimenting with a novel method of planting Mangroves. Recognizing the importance of creating a conducive habitat for their growth, we decided to deviate from the conventional practice of planting seedlings directly into loose coastal sand. Instead, we endeavoured to establish an artificially crafted environment to foster the flourishing of these valuable ecosystems. This innovative approach has the potential to revolutionize Mangrove restoration efforts, paving the way for our ambitious long-term goal of planting a diverse range of Mangrove and associated species along the enchanting trance-Vypin coastal line, spanning approximately 20 kilometres (excluding Elankunnappuzha Grama Panchayaths).
Finding the Geographical Area for the Project
Vypeen Island, home to six panchayaths, namely Elankunnappuzha, Narakkal, Nayarambalam, Edavanakkad, Kuzhuppilly, and Pallippuram, offered a wealth of possibilities for our endeavour. Among these, Elankunnappuzha Gram Panchayath emerged as a significant contender due to its existing substantial presence of Mangroves and associated species. However, it is crucial to note that this area is presently under the control of the BPCL and LNG Petronet Project, a central government initiative, granting access solely to authorized entities. Notably, Avicennia Marina and Avicennia Officinalis stand as the dominant species within this region, with Rhizophora apiculata also present, albeit less commonly. For the rest of the island, our focus will be to preserve the currently available species while actively expanding the planting efforts by introducing more saplings.
Selection of the Pilot Project Area
With careful consideration, we have identified the ideal area to initiate our pilot project. Our attention will be directed towards a one-kilometre stretch parallel to the sea wall. Here, we aim to create an artificial habitat conducive to Mangrove growth and closely observe the outcomes. Should the pilot project prove successful, it will undoubtedly propel us closer to our ultimate objective of planting Mangroves and associated species along the entire trance-Vypin coastal line.
For the pilot project, the following area is selected.
- 10°03’10.4″N 76°12’53.2″E
(Veliyathamparambu, Puthan Kadappuram, Nayarambalam)1 - 10°03’44.9″N 76°11’58.3″E
(Palam, Puthan Kadappuram, Nayarambalam) - 10.07132° N, 76.19729° E
(Thayyezhuthu Beach, Puthan Kadappuram, Nayarambalam)
On the specified three sites mentioned above, Grassroute has already embarked on a remarkable journey of planting more than thousands of Mangrove saplings and associated species. Our dedicated team diligently tends to these thriving ecosystems, ensuring their well-being through daily and weekly maintenance efforts.
Through unwavering commitment and an unwavering sense of responsibility, Grassroute stands as a testament to the power of collective action in fostering environmental preservation. Our ongoing efforts serve as a testament to the enduring dedication we hold towards restoring and nurturing these vital coastal habitats.
As we continue our stewardship, we remain resolute in our mission to safeguard the health and vitality of these Mangrove forests. Through meticulous care and regular monitoring, we strive to create a sustainable environment that thrives for generations to come.
Mangrove and associate species – an introduction
Mangroves include trees, shrubs and creepers. There are special types of plants that grow in or near mangrove forests. They are referred to as mangrove associates. Of the 59 species of mangroves found in India, 18 are recorded in Kerala. A study conducted by the Kerala Forest Research Institute has found that there are 18 species of pure mangroves and 54 species of mangrove associates statewide.
Major species found in Ernakulam District
Rhizophora mucronata (പീക്കണ്ടൽ orപ്രാന്തൻ കണ്ടൽ), Rhizophora apiculata (വള്ളിക്കണ്ടൽ), Bruguiera cylindrica (കുറ്റിക്കണ്ടൽ), Aegiceras corniculatum (പൂക്കണ്ടൽ)
Collecting saplings
The mangrove species mentioned above are widely available in these areas. Even though we can collect locally grown seedlings, we prefer to buy scientifically grown and more viable saplings of Rhizophora mucronata from the following sources:
- School of Fishery Environment, Puthuvype, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS)
- Private Individual Mr Murugeshan, winner of the 24th P V Thampy memorial endowment award for environmental protection.
Method of planting
In a departure from conventional methods of simply planting seedlings in coastal sand, we have envisioned a novel approach that involves creating an artificially crafted habitat to facilitate optimal growth of Mangroves. As part of this pilot project, we intend to excavate a trench measuring one meter in width, and one meter in depth, and extending 100 meters along a specific section of the coastline. This experimental initiative marks an important stepping stone towards our ultimate goal: establishing extensive trenches, spanning 10 to 20 meters in width and one meter in depth, along the enchanting Vypin coastal line. Looking ahead, we aspire to expand this innovative approach to encompass the entire coastal line of Kerala. Through these concerted efforts, we strive to create a thriving Mangrove ecosystem that will safeguard our precious coastal regions and contribute to the preservation of Kerala’s natural heritage.
The Execution
Saturday / 6th November 2021
At Thayyezhuthu Beach, volunteers dug a ten-meter length, one-meter breadth and one-meter depth canal. Work started at 4:45 PM and finished the job at 6:50 PM. There were six volunteers who actively participated in the event.
Sunday / 7th November 2021
Collected silt from Aniyil (a nearby place) Fish Pond, Edavanakkad and deposited it in the pit we dug on the previous day. As the next layer, we filled dried leaves and paddy straws. And on top of that, we poured cow dung.
The artificial habitat is ready. Now we need to plant the mangroves in the pit.
Thursday / 11th November 2021
Again we manually collected some more silt from a nearby fish pond, owned by Dhananjayan, a Grassroute member. And topped it up on the pit.
Friday, 12th November 2021
Planting ceremony
The ceremonial planting commenced at 3:30 PM, graced by the esteemed presence of Mrs Neetu Binod, President of Nayarambalam Panchayath, who inaugurated this momentous occasion. Mrs C.C. Siji, the esteemed ward member of the 12th Ward Nayarambalam, had the honour of planting the very first seedling, symbolizing the beginning of this significant undertaking. The event garnered participation from passionate individuals and dedicated groups, including the enthusiastic Seed Club students, guided by the committed teachers Mrs Sushila Gopinath, Mrs Tessie John, and Beena George from Bhavans Vidyamandir, Elamakkara, as well as teachers Mrs Reni Daniel and Mrs Sisy from SBOA School, Chittoor. Additionally, the initiative was bolstered by the invaluable contributions of the Rajagiri Outreach Students, led by the esteemed coordinator Mr Ranjith K.U., along with the hardworking MGNREGA workers and members of the local community. This collective participation exemplifies the power of collaboration and community engagement in our shared mission to nurture and protect our precious coastal ecosystems.
In the pursuit of restoring and conserving Mangrove ecosystems, numerous environmental organizations, passionate nature enthusiasts, and the government have tirelessly coordinated extensive Mangrove planting schemes across the state. However, thus far, there has been a remarkable absence of experimentation with creating a suitable environment for Mangroves parallel to the sea-wall. This project stands as a daring experiment, as we explore uncharted territory. Should our endeavor prove successful, it will present a groundbreaking revelation. Instead of resorting to the demolition of the Western Ghats and constructing a sea wall with formidable rocks, we have the potential to construct an even stronger and sustainable biological sea wall along the entire coast of Kerala, harnessing the power and resilience of Mangroves. This visionary approach holds the key to forging a harmonious coexistence between our coastal landscapes and the invaluable Mangrove ecosystems they support.
Said K.K. Reghuraj, Farm Superintendent, KUFOS, addressing the function.
Maintenance of the project
Just planting is easy to do. The maintenance part is tougher and harder. Anyway, Team Grasroute is pledged to maintain it on a periodic basis. The next thing is to do a detailed plan for maintenance.
This pilot project serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to Mangrove conservation and restoration. By embracing innovative techniques and nurturing Mangroves in thoughtfully crafted habitats, we aspire to secure a flourishing future for these invaluable ecosystems. Our journey begins with this pilot initiative, and we eagerly anticipate the invaluable insights it will provide as we strive towards a sustainable, biodiverse coastal landscape on the breathtaking shores of Vypeen Island.
