Mahakalapara: Amid rising global concerns over climate change, local teachers under this block in Kendrapara district are setting an inspiring example by dedicating their summer vacation to environmental restoration efforts.
A group of teachers from Kochila village under Mahakalapara block have taken the initiative to plant more than 500 mangrove saplings along the banks of the Guptagiri River, a distributary of the Mahanadi.
These educators, who teach in schools across districts like Malkangiri, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, and Koraput districts, returned to their native village during the summer holidays and used the opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation.
The plantation drive stretched about 2 km from Agua to Bachhuria Kandha.
The teachers planted native mangrove species such as Rai, Sinduka, Bani, Kalia Chuan, Orua, Data, Guan, Garani, Kharasi, Dhala Sundari, and Banderi.
They also sowed seeds of several of these species in select locations for future growth. These plant species are unique because they have the ability to survive in areas having a mix of freshwater and saltwater along the coastlines, estuaries, and lagoons.
Mangroves are not only important for their ecological role but also play a crucial role in the protection of the coastline and carbon sequestration.
The teachers noted that the coastal areas are now experiencing more intense heat compared to forest-rich regions of western Odisha, emphasising the urgent need for local action.
Inspired by their concern, the group, along with local youth and the support of childhood friend and nature enthusiast Subhas Swain, undertook the planting effort along the riverbank.
PNN
