Locals need to participate in reviving mangroves of Mainmahla Kyun Wildlife Sanctuary

 

August 19

 

The Mainmahla Kyun Wildlife Sanctuary in Bogale Township of Pyapon District, Ayeyawady Region, has been designated as a natural reserve by the Ministry of Forestry on 5 January 1993 and an ASEAN heritage park in 2003. The mangrove forest in this wildlife sanctuary is a natural habitat for many endangered plant and animal species, and the source of livelihood and income for more than 8,000 households from 32 surrounding villages. More importantly, this mangrove forest also protects its environment from natural disasters which were caused by climate change.

 

However, the destruction of mangroves from the Mainmahla Kyun Wildlife Sanctuary started in 1985 when it was selected as a forest reserve for firewood extraction. People’s excessive and unregulated use of trees and Cyclone Nargis that hit in 2008 caused the ruination of mangrove swamps.

 

The deterioration of the mangrove ecosystem generated from the destruction of mangroves produced effects on the biodiversity on which it depends, and the instability of the food chain, resulting in damage in food and water supply of locals.

 

Thus, forestry experts, environmental and wildlife conservation groups and social groups are already implementing the process of mangrove restoration planting, increasing plant growth density, improving the biodiversity including endangered mangrove species and making the mangrove ecosystem healthier. Therefore, there is a major need for the participation of residents.

 

The project implementers also want the local people to participate, and if they participate, they will get income opportunities, in addition to a healthier mangrove ecosystem that will increase agricultural produce and livestock products. — Moe Sat (Bogale)/GNLM