T.N. Forest Dept. restores unused stretch of intertidal

Steps have been initiated to form a Village Mangrove Committee at Kudikadu to further strengthen local participation and protective mechanisms, says B. Iqbal, Forest Range Officer. The restoration project represents a significant milestone in coastal ecosystem conservation in Tamil Nadu. **Project Overview:** The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has successfully restored a 5-hectare unused stretch of intertidal area in Kudikadu, transforming it into a thriving mangrove ecosystem. **Restoration Process:** **Phase 1 - Assessment:** - Soil quality analysis - Water salinity testing - Biodiversity survey - Community consultation **Phase 2 - Preparation:** - Debris removal - Ground leveling - Water channel restoration - Boundary demarcation **Phase 3 - Plantation:** - 5,000 mangrove saplings planted - Species: Avicennia, Rhizophora, and Sonneratia - Spacing and planting techniques followed - Initial watering and care **Community Involvement:** **Village Mangrove Committee:** Forest Range Officer B. Iqbal has spearheaded the formation of a Village Mangrove Committee comprising: - Local fishermen representatives - Village panchayat members - Women's self-help groups - Youth volunteers - Forest department liaison officer **Committee Responsibilities:** - Regular monitoring of plantation - Protection from encroachment - Awareness programs - Coordination with Forest Department - Sustainable harvesting guidelines **Environmental Benefits:** **Ecosystem Services:** - Coastal erosion prevention - Storm surge protection - Fish breeding grounds - Carbon sequestration - Biodiversity enhancement **Economic Benefits:** - Improved fish catch for local fishermen - Eco-tourism potential - Livelihood opportunities - Climate resilience **Future Plans:** The Forest Department plans to: - Expand restoration to adjacent areas - Establish a mangrove interpretation center - Conduct regular biodiversity surveys - Develop eco-tourism activities - Create employment opportunities for locals This project serves as a model for community-based coastal ecosystem restoration and demonstrates the power of collaborative conservation efforts.