KOZHIKODE: While the city and suburbs are reeling under acute water shortage and witnessing extreme heat, activist groups and citizens forums demand immediate steps be taken to conserve the mangrove forest of Kottooli wetlands in the city that spreads over hundreds of acres.
That apart, eco-club members of 236 city schools also have been demanding conservation of the wetlands to ensure a better city with sufficient breathing space, green zone and recharging of water resources.
The wetlands are spread over about 200 hectares (500 acres approx.) according to a survey conducted by the department. The district has more than more than 100 species of plants, 80 species of butterflies and over 100 species of birds. It also houses some of the most endangered species of water plants.
Noted activist MA Johnson told Deccan Chronicle that a major part of the land has been in the custody of land sharks and there are illegal encroachments on large tracts. “The estuary of Kallai River has been blocked with slush and illegal encroachments. Without clearing the river mouth, the eco-system of the wetland cannot be conserved”, he added.
Activists also pointed out that funds allotted by the Union Ministry for Forests and Environment to conserve the mangrove forests by acquiring the wetlands either through negotiation with private owners has lapsed several years ago.
Based on the study conducted by the Centre for Education and Environment (CEE), a Delhi-based environmental organization and six environmental organizations of the district had approached the state government much earlier for conserving the eco-system, but in vain. Kozhikode Divisional Forest officer KK Sunilkumar told DC that moves were afoot to survey the land.
“We have examined some tracts and are exploring ways and means to ensure protection of the sensitive eco-system which will be an asset for future generations if conserved effectively”, he added.
