Reviving Biodiversity: MUKTI’s Green Mission in the Sundarbans

Since inception, MUKTI has been focused in making sincere efforts in restoring the ecologically fragile landscape of Sundarban, one of the world’s largest and most vulnerable mangrove forests, by following meticulously planned processes. With targeted plantation initiatives in areas like Damkal, Baradanagar, Herambagopalpur, Kankandighi, and Purba Sridharpur, MUKTI has led a transformative journey focused not only on greening the land but on reviving and sustaining biodiversity.

Mangrove Reforestation: A Lifeline for Biodiversity

One of MUKTI’s primary targets in this direction has been, large scale Mangrove forestation programme. As a part of this programme, key native species have been planted across identified areas to recreate the complex mangrove ecosystems that once thrived across these coastal zones.

Here’s a list of the mangrove species planted:

• Bain (Avicennia officinalis)
• Keora (Sonneratia apetala)
• Gewa (Excoecaria agallocha)
• Golpata (Nypa fruticans)
• Garan (Ceriops decandra)
• Kankra (Bruguiera gymnorhiza)
• Tora (Aegialitis rotundifolia)
• Dotol (Xylocarpus granatum)
• Garjan (Rhizophora mucronata)

These species form the backbone of the Sundarbans’ biodiversity, offering shelter and breeding grounds to countless organisms—from fish and crabs to migratory birds and insects.

Mangroves are keystone species in this delta. They filter pollutants, stabilize shorelines, and, most importantly, provide a rich habitat that supports intricate food webs. MUKTI’s work has helped restore these critical ecological functions, enabling nature to rebound.

More than Just Trees: A Biodiversity-Centric Approach

MUKTI’s plantations are not limited to mangroves. The organization has introduced a diverse mix of plant species, including:

• Fruit-bearing trees like dragon fruit and coconut
• Flowering plants that attract pollinators
• Vetiver grass, known for its soil-binding roots and ability to improve soil health

This diverse mix of flora has dramatically improved the area’s ecological balance, inviting a wide range of fauna back into the landscape. Birds, butterflies, bees, amphibians, and small mammals are once again finding food, shelter, and breeding grounds in these regenerated areas.

Biodiversity Rebounding: A Living Proof of Success

The impact on biodiversity has been both visible and measurable. Regions once barren or dominated by saline-tolerant weeds have transformed into thriving green belts buzzing with life. Fish stocks in nearby waters have improved, pollinator populations have rebounded, and even rare and locally endangered species are being sighted again such as Mangrove Whistler and Brahminy Kite. Spotted Owlets are often seen in the coconut trees.

This resurgence of flora and fauna is not merely a side effect, it is the central goal of MUKTI’s intervention. By focusing on native species and ecological compatibility, the plantations function as living ecosystems, not just green spaces.

Coexistence and Ecological Awareness

A powerful outcome of this biodiversity resurgence has been the renewed relationship between people and nature. Local communities have begun to observe, respect, and protect the ecosystems forming around them. With increased biodiversity comes ecosystem services—cleaner water, improved agriculture, natural storm protection—which directly benefit the people.

MUKTI has also been involved in environmental education, ensuring that communities understand the value of biodiversity and their role in conserving it. This symbiotic coexistence between humans and wildlife represents a sustainable model of development.

A Blueprint for Biodiversity-Led Restoration

In a time of global biodiversity loss, MUKTI’s work in the Sundarbans is a beacon of hope. Their approach—grounded in science, local participation, and a deep respect for nature—demonstrates how ecological restoration can serve both people and the planet.

As the Sundarbans continues to face the pressures of climate change and human encroachment, MUKTI’s commitment to environment stands as a living blueprint for resilience, regeneration, and coexistence.