The Gujarat government has announced the designation of the inland mangroves in Ganeli village, Kutch, as the first biodiversity heritage site (BHS) in the state. This initiative aims to protect unique and vulnerable ecosystems, highlighting the significance of preserving biologically rich areas. Ganeli’s mangroves are among the last of their kind in India and can only be found in eight locations worldwide.
Located 45 kilometers from the Arabian Sea and 4 kilometers from Colik Lake, Ganeli’s inland mangroves thrive in limestone-rich areas, supported by natural sediments that ensure a consistent flow of groundwater. Historically, this ecosystem has been present for centuries, potentially dating back to the Chushinse era and the ancient Saraswati River, forming an essential part of the local ecological landscape.
These mangroves serve as crucial habitats for numerous wildlife species, including chinkara, Indian foxes, and various bird species, thereby contributing to the region’s biodiversity. The recognition of Ganeli’s mangrove as a BHS underscores the need for its conservation, as it plays a key role in maintaining ecological balance.
Local community members, particularly conservation leaders like Jadeja Devaji Negraji (Deva Bhai), have been instrumental in protecting these mangroves from unauthorized exploitation. Their efforts to educate the public on the ecological value of mangroves emphasize the importance of community involvement in conservation.
The historical significance of Ganeli’s mangroves ties back to ancient landscapes and ecosystems, making them not only a natural treasure but also a part of the region’s heritage. The BHS designation represents a major step in Gujarat’s conservation efforts, aiming to provide legal protection for the mangroves and inspire similar initiatives across India.
Source link
