Balasore: The government has legislated policy on creating mangrove forests along the coastline to maintain ecological balance and protect coastal pockets from natural disasters.
This has been stressed under the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project (ICZMP).
Significantly, a mangrove forest has been created over 150 acres along the coast near Talapada panchayat under Remuna block, about 10 years ago. The sprawling mangrove forest has turned out to be a sanctuary for crocodiles.
An ambitious plan has been made for revival of Talapada mangrove forest so as to develop it as a special project. A proposal has been sent to the Central government for approval. But its approval is pending.
Over 40 fishermen who have been eking out their livelihood at Kantiachira river for months have claimed that they have seen crocodiles, snakes and various species of marine creatures in the forest.
This scenic spot has potential for tourism like Bhitarkanika if its natural assets are properly utilised.
In winter, tourists are drawn to this place for picnicking. They enjoy the beauty of the place, the confluence of the river and the sea.
The forest department has created mangrove and casuarinas along 70/80 km of the coastline from Jaleswar to Talapada (the borders of Bhadrak district).
Besides, over 90 casuarinas forests have been created along the coast in Jaleswar and Chandipur.
The district administration has sent a proposal to the Central government, seeking mangrove forest status to this forest. Officials have visited the area, but the final report about this project has not been submitted.
The Talapada mangrove forest should be given official recognition, apart from measures for its revival. People of coastal pockets like Inchudi, Tundura, Talapada, Srijanga, Rasalpur, Kuligaon, Maharajpur panchayats are often battered by natural calamities like cyclones.
The villagers say, revival of the mangrove forest will protect their villages.
As for the mangrove project, DFO Biswaraj Panda said over 90 casuarinas forests have been created under ICZMP along Jaleswar and Chandipur coast while plantation drives are being undertaken.
“An action plan has been made for Talapada mangrove forest to make it a special project. A proposal has been sent to the Central government for approval. Owing to Covid-19 situation, the process is getting delayed. Once the project is approved, its work will be started,” the DFO said.
PNN