MARGAO: A day-long workshop aimed at developing a comprehensive strategy and action plan for the management of urban khazans saw the participation of over 30 stakeholders, including representatives from the Goa State Biodiversity Board (GSBB), research institutions, khazan landowners and cultivators, experts, and other organisations.
“By connecting the stakeholders in the process of the research project, the foundation is laid for a collaborative effort towards preserving the ecological and socio-economic value of these vulnerable khazan lands, which give a classic example of coexistence of humans with nature. The insights gained from the workshop are expected to guide the formulation of policies and initiatives that address the identified risks while enhancing the ecosystem services provided by khazans,” said Dr Pradip Sarmokadam, GSBB Member Secretary.
Participants crafted a vision statement for khazan management and then worked in groups to brainstorm actionable goals and stakeholders under several verticals, including governance, community engagement, bundh construction, agriculture, and pisciculture. Broad takeaways focused on building capacity, increasing transparency and accountability in khazan management, developing collaborative networks between stakeholders, and integrating khazan management across all State departments, plans, and policies.
It is to be noted that the event held in Panjim was organised by ICLEI South Asia, which is working on a project titled ‘Need for an Urban Policy on Khazans – Ensuring Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Urban Development’, supported by Azim Premji University, Bengaluru.
The attendees also highlighted that khazans safeguard the surrounding regions from sea-level rise and flooding while simultaneously providing fertile grounds for cultivation and aquaculture, notably contributing to the livelihood of residents.
