Sometimes all the proof in the world is not enough to prompt timely action. This is also true of the role that forests play in our lives, from regulating climate to recharging ground water. In a rush to accomplish short-term benefits, we run our roads through prime forests or worse, mine the area. Similar has been the tale of mangroves. Down to half the area in the last 50 years, the existing mangroves face a real  threat of extinction.

Over-exploitation from local residents for wood and biomass, honey collection, grazing, impounding of river waters that lead to less freshwater, etc have meant that mangroves have degraded or have been displaced.

This is despite the evidence from the tsunami that revealed the beneficial face of mangroves. Villages that had left the mangrove bioshield intact survived the fury of the tsunami. A more tangible effect of the mangroves is on checking sea erosion. With their widespread mat of roots they help trap sediments and aid land building. Instead of opting for this natural course, most coastal communities have taken to putting up sea walls which are costly and not as effective. Mangroves also enrich the marine life along the shores.

About 5 percent of the world’s mangroves are found in India, and a sizeable chunk of this is in the Sunderbans region of West Bengal. Here, population explosion and dependence of a large section of poor people on the mangroves for their livelihood has meant crushing pressure on the vegetation. The state of most mangroves in most parts of the country is poor as is evident from their foliage density.

Recognising the need to conserve mangroves, the Ministry of Environment and Forests had come up with a scheme to provide funds for their upkeep. However, it is unfortunate that most forest departments in the states are not even aware of this. There are UNEP funds available too but as in the Sunderbans, most of this lies misused or under-utilised.

It is crucial that action be taken immediately. Where mangroves are being displaced by land grabbers as is the case with Mumbai, it would be helpful to rope in corporates to conserve them. This has proved to be useful in a couple of instances. While tourism is one aspect that could help bring in revenue to the locals and maintain mangroves, the more important need of the hour is to educate people on the benefits accruing directly and indirectly from mangroves. There is no scope for complacency or half-hearted measures. As valuable wetlands, the role of mangroves cannot be over-emphasised.