Locals in his neighbourhood name him the ‘Mangrove Man’. Kochi-based Murukesan couldn’t be prouder to hold the title. Having fished for the reason that age of 20, Murukesan’s fondness for the shoreline solely grew with time.
Within the years that adopted, nonetheless, his consideration was drawn to an fascinating correlation between the decline in mangroves and the rise in cyclones.
The plant species have been multipurpose. They not solely act as nice antibacterials and antihelminths however their roots additionally assist fish breathe. Amidst the various advantages of mangroves, nonetheless, is their position in combating local weather change. Touted as the primary line of defence in opposition to flooding and erosion, the vegetation scale back the possibility of hurricanes. They act as a fence of nature.
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In Murukesan’s eyes, this can be a boon for society.
“If we wish to construct a wall alongside the stretch of Kerala sea shore which is 500 plus kilometres, it’ll value an enormous quantity. As a substitute, we are able to plant mangroves, which is able to act as a inexperienced belt. It is going to be cheaper,” he says.
When the ‘Mangrove Man’ began the huge feat someday in 2013, the duty forward appeared humungous. However at present 10 years later, the inexperienced belt smiles again at him.
In his endeavour, Murukesan was supported by teams such because the Swaminathan Basis and Grassroot. His work will be seen throughout Cherai, North Mulavakkad, Vallarpadam and Chellanam.
As we speak, multiple lakh mangroves line the shores of Kochi because of Murukesan and his efforts. And he doesn’t intend to cease anytime quickly. He needs to proceed planting mangroves for the remainder of his life and encourages others to do the identical.
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He takes no credit score for his work. “I’ve solely studied until Class 8. But when the individuals of Kerala and the world know me, it’s due to my work. What else do I want?” As a substitute, he encourages individuals to plant not less than 10 mangrove saplings annually.
Edited by Pranita Bhat
