Rampant destruction of Sundarban mangroves threatens ecosystem despite Govt replanting efforts

The Sundarbans, a vital ecosystem known for its dense mangrove forests, is facing widespread destruction despite the efforts of the state government and Forest Department. Mangrove forests in the region have been cleared for construction, including the building of concrete houses and ponds, contributing to the degradation of this crucial environment. These mangroves serve as a natural barrier, protecting the region from coastal erosion and providing a defense against severe weather events. However, illegal cutting of mangroves continues to occur in various parts of the Sundarbans, undermining efforts to preserve this valuable resource.

In response to the increasing threat, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has implemented initiatives aimed at planting more mangroves along the coast. The state government and the Forest Department have been working on large-scale replanting projects in an attempt to restore the balance. Despite these efforts, the destruction persists, and the region’s natural defenses remain vulnerable. A significant issue has been the illegal cutting of trees by individuals involved in construction activities along the riverbanks.

A concerning incident came to light when a home guard, an official from the state police, was accused of illegally destroying mangroves for personal gain. The accused allegedly cleared mangroves to make way for building concrete homes and digging ponds along the riverbank, in direct violation of government orders. This highlights a major gap in the enforcement of environmental protection laws, where those responsible for upholding the law may themselves be contributing to the destruction of the region’s vital resources.