Rahul Shewale Launches ‘Mission Mangroves’ to Revive Mumbai’s Coastal Green Cover
Former Shiv Sena MP Rahul Ramesh Shewale on Monday launched an initiative titled ‘Mission Mangroves’ aimed at reviving Mumbai’s crucial mangrove cover. The campaign kicked off with mangrove plantation over a two-and-a-half–acre stretch in Chembur’s Chedda Nagar.
Shewale said the drive, undertaken in collaboration with the state Forest Department, will be expanded with active participation from students, youth groups, social organisations, and local residents. The initiative seeks to strengthen long-term conservation efforts for Mumbai’s mangroves, which play a vital role in the city’s ecological balance.
Officials from the Forest Department, representatives of the Chedda Nagar Residents Association, and several local citizens were present at the launch. The mangroves are essential for the city as they act as natural barriers against coastal erosion, provide habitats for various marine species, and help in carbon sequestration, thus contributing to the fight against climate change.
The ‘Mission Mangroves’ is not just about planting new mangroves but also about educating the community on the importance of these ecosystems. Shewale emphasized the need for sustained efforts and community involvement to ensure the success of the initiative. ‘Mission Mangroves’ is expected to cover various mangrove areas in Mumbai, with plans to expand the project to other coastal regions in the near future.
Mangroves are crucial for Mumbai’s environmental health. They help in reducing the impact of storm surges and tidal waves, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change. Additionally, they support a diverse range of flora and fauna, contributing to the city’s biodiversity. The initiative aims to create awareness among the younger generation about the importance of mangroves and the role they can play in conservation efforts.
Shewale’s ‘Mission Mangroves’ is a significant step towards restoring and protecting Mumbai’s coastal green cover, which has been under threat due to urbanization and pollution. The collaboration between the government, local communities, and environmental organizations is expected to make a substantial difference in the city’s environmental landscape.
