Mangroves have their role

Jun 16, 2021 Letters

DEAR EDITOR,

We need mangroves; mangroves do not need us. In response to Mr. Charles Sohan’s letter, dated 12 June, 2021 allow me to express my apprehension as regards to annihilation of mangroves. It is while strolling along the Ogle seawall that I discovered recently planted mangroves growing majestically as if earth is kissing the Atlantic Ocean with pride, and the recent addition of coconut trees, wave their palms to the ocean with joy. The peace and tranquility were mine while this happened. Besides my poetic expression of mangroves, I would like us to understand the significance of planting and preserving mangroves along the seafront. It is no new knowledge, but timely reminders along with disciplinary measures of destroying mangroves will be of great significance.
Economic development is important, but at what cost must be a counter feasibility question. As Guyana hits centre-stage on the world business market, especially through oil and gas production, it is important to self-evaluate on some of the critical matters of concern that every Guyanese must be pondering in their minds. I am not here to harangue on mangrove and its importance, but to ask a few fundamental questions. I was appalled to hear that mangrove has been destroyed in certain areas. First of all, these mangroves were planted by volunteers and people who want to protect coastline from land erosion as a natural sea defence. The fact is that everyone is aware of the benefits of mangroves because Project Mangrove would have ample feasibility studies done with pros and cons being weighted well. If we focus on economic development at the cost of our mangrove, it is imminent that our future generations will have to pay the price, especially on the coast. Coastal development is the major cause of destruction of mangroves. If we protect mangroves, they will protect us. If not, we will perish as they have been made to perish. We have to put up with certain uncomfortable situations, such as mosquitoes and crustaceans. This situation will prevail even if we did not have mangroves. We might be a little uncomfortable, but rest assured future generations will have a better life if we protect mangroves. Hence, I urge all of us to make efforts to ensure that our mangrove is protected at all costs. We need mangroves; mangroves do not need us.

Jerri Dias

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