Gorai’s green gems: Immerse in this nature trail in Mumbai to learn about the importance of mangroves

Acanthus Ilicifolius.

Gorai's mangroves are nothing short of an ecological miracle. Sitting away from the mainland, these mangroves find themselves untouched by human activity. Hemant Karkhanis, a mangrove expert and environmentalist tells us, "Other mangroves in Mumbai see deterioration due to anthropogenic activities but the mangroves of Gorai island remain untouched in their sanctuary."

The mangroves at Gorai

Although they remain isolated from Mumbai's bustle, they have found succour, thanks to the Koli inhabitants of the island, "Gorai is inhabited by the Koli community and since mangroves help the marine ecosystem, the Koli's protect the mangroves and do not interfere." He believes that if he can bring common people of this city closer to these coastal guardians, they may also realise their sanctity.

Hemant Karkhanis. Pics courtesy/Hemant Karkhanis

Led by Karkhanis, this trail aims to offer participants the rare opportunity to witness the most protected mangroves in the western suburbs, where they will find themselves encircled by a diverse variety of mangroves and mangrove-associated plants.

Mudskipper fish

What can Mumbai do?

Educate: Schools and colleges must make concerted efforts to educate young people regarding the city's rich mangrove biodiversity and their importance.

Attendees at the mangrove trail in Konkan

Act: Attending mangrove clean-ups can help clean the water that supports them ensuring that they keep thriving.
Prevent: Create pressure groups against unsafe disposal of toxic waste from industries and factories in the city's major mangrove-supporting waterbodies.

Propagule of Bruguiera sp

Mumbai's sustainable sidekick

Karkhanis tells us about the lesser known symbiotic relationship between Mumbai and its mangroves.

>> Mangroves absorb heavy-metal secretions from industries in the atmosphere, ensuring minimal presence of these metals in our surroundings.

Pagoda Ant Nest and Orange mangrove

>> The coastal forest of Mumbai is a natural barrier against natural calamities and the mangroves help guard this forest.

ON May 10; 7.15 am
MEETING POINT Gorai Jetty, Borivli West.
LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com
ENTRY Rs 350 onwards