fix levels of ecological degradation: researchers

PANJIM, SEPT 10
“The marine biodiversity of Goa needs systematic study to fix the levels of degradation and some corrective measures such as conservation, preservation and restoration needs to be carried out,” says paper presented by two researchers at a seminar held at Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) Old Goa, recently.
C Monteiro and G G Phadke in their paper have expressed the need for formulation of strict laws whereas violations of existing ones (Wildlife Protection Act, CRZ, Pollution Control and Indian Fisheries Act) have to be dealt with in a more sever manner, they suggested.
Ecologically, Goa’s coast is very important and has one of the best waterways network with seven major rivers. However, like elsewhere, coastal marine diversity of the State comprising Plankton Community, marine algae, marine fungi, sea grasses, mangrove flora, sand dune vegetation, marine fish fauna and other fauna.
In a view of soil erosion, climate change and sea level rise, the two researchers says the best protective measure against these processes is the retention of natural ecosystem by retreat and appropriate set back lines.
Deforestation, land and improper land use is one of the proximate root causes of loss of biodiversity. “Reclamation of mangrove and Khazan lands near the estuaries has huge impact on the food chain and breeding cycles of fish and shellfish, “they pointed out in their paper.
Also, development project and urbanization causing loss of biodiversity — the biodiversity near urban areas is under tremendous pressure land development activities.
Other factors which they says are causing depletion of bio-diversity include sand dune destruction, improper cultivation methods and sewage disposal, wild life poaching, mining and quarrying Beach shack and tourism.
Beach shacks and recreation along Goan beaches though appear less damaging due to its temporary nature, the ever increasing competition has resulted in their proliferation along the 60 kms of beach length. Huge quantity of plastic left unattended at the beaches invariably finds its way into the estuaries, they said.