Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (DV)
Mangaluru, Jun 14: "Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) and Karnataka forest department have signed a MoU for the restoration and rejuvenation of the Kudumburu river and adjoining mangrove forest area," said the managing director (additional charge) of Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) Sanjay Varma.
He further said, “There are 86 mangrove species in the world. As many as six different types of species will be planted here along with the corporation of the forest department. CCTV cameras and security will be developed to watch the mangrove forest.
“The project, encompassing an expansive area of 171 hectares (422.55 acres), includes the conservation of a mangrove forest and wetland spanning 151 hectares (373.129 acres) and the revitalization of the 20-hectare (49.42 acres) Kudumburu river,” he said.
He also added that there are several problems like dumping of waste, drainage blockage, burning of waste, loss of wetland birds and aquatic habitation, and other issues.
He said, “The MRPL is taking on this project for seven years. The project includes baseline assessment, dredging, trench opening, fencing, CCTV installation, culvert construction, retaining wall construction, mangrove plantation, maintenance, and other workers. The total project area covers 171 hectares, The estimated cost will be 16,83,80,692.
“The project activities outlined in the MoU entail a comprehensive approach to ecological restoration. They involve the opening and maintenance of trenches, construction of culverts, installation and maintenance of barbed wires, dredging and de-silting of the Kudumburu river and its side channels, transportation of dredged waste to designated dumping sites, establishment and upkeep of mangrove plantations, creation and maintenance of roadside avenue plantations, and the installation of CC cameras for monitoring and surveillance.
“The deteriorating condition of the Kudumburu river and wetland, primarily caused by industrial activities in and around the Baikampady Industrial Cluster, prompted the need for concerted efforts to reverse the ecological damage. Illegal encroachment and the rampant dumping of domestic waste have severely impacted the freshwater flow into the wetland, hampering the natural restoration of the mangrove forest.
“The restoration and rejuvenation of the Kudumburu river and its adjoining mangrove forest are expected to yield several significant benefits for the ecosystem and the local community. The improved brackish water flow and increased water salinity in the wetland area will promote the growth of mangroves, serving as vital nurseries for aquatic species and supporting the local fisheries. Additionally, the resolution of water stagnation issues through enhanced brackish water flow will lead to improved water quality in the Kudumburu river and interconnected lakes, benefitting both the environment and the communities dependent on these water bodies.
“The restoration efforts will have a positive impact on the livelihoods of local fishermen, as the revival of the ecosystem will enable the resumption of summer fishing activities, which previously yielded 5-6 tonnes of fish. This will not only enhance their income but also contribute to the overall economic well-being of the region.
“Furthermore, the restoration of the mangrove forest will play a crucial role in stabilizing riverbanks and mitigating soil erosion. The project is also expected to address the adverse effects of climate change by promoting carbon sequestration and acting as a natural buffer against its impacts.
“The MoU signing event marks a significant milestone in the joint commitment of the MRPL and Karnataka forest department toward environmental conservation and sustainable development. By working together, they aim to revitalize the ecosystem, safeguard biodiversity, enhance water quality, mitigate climate change effects, and protect the natural resources of the Kudumburu river and adjoining mangrove forest area.
“Both the MRPL and Karnataka Forest Department expressed their enthusiasm and dedication to implementing the project and ensuring its successful outcomes. They emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between the government, industries, and communities to achieve long-term sustainability.
“As the restoration and rejuvenation project commences, it is expected to serve as a model for similar initiatives in the region, showcasing the positive outcomes that can be achieved,” he said.
M S Sudarshan and others were present.