Odisha Residents Unite to Reforest Mangroves and Bolster Coastal Defense

In observance of the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, residents in Odisha's coastal districts are actively planting mangroves to restore denuded coastal forest cover. Supported by Reliance Foundation, these efforts aim to enhance both livelihood and ecological security. Local communities, including youth and school children, are engaged in awareness programs and plantation activities.

In a commendable effort to mark the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, residents from three coastal districts in Odisha engaged in planting mangroves on Friday. This initiative aims to regenerate the depleted coastal forest cover and mitigate the impact of cyclones.

With support from Reliance Foundation and its partnering organizations, around 55,000 mangrove saplings have been planted in vulnerable areas of Balasore, Jagatsinghpur, and Ganjam districts over the last five years. Awareness sessions for youth and school children are also being conducted to highlight the importance of mangroves.

Mangrove ecosystems offer crucial ecological security and protect coastal communities' livelihoods. These plantations are part of a larger effort led by Reliance Foundation, which includes knowledge transfer from scientific experts and community guidance on mangrove management.

(With inputs from agencies.)