Over 700,000 Mangrove Trees Planted Through Self-Help Initiatives in Arakan State Amid Ongoing Fighting

Thinzar Nwe, Narinjara News, 4 October 2024

Amid the Arakan conflict, more than 700,000 mangrove trees have been planted through grassroots initiatives led by Ko Myo Lwin, an environmental activist from Ann Township, Arakan State.

According to Ko Myo Lwin's interview with Narinjara News, most of the mangrove planting has taken place in the forest between Ann Township and Kyaukphyu Township since November 2023 when battles for the towns commenced.

Speaking about their efforts, Ko Myo Lwin stated, "Once stability is restored in Arakan State, reforestation and tree planting will follow. We anticipate challenges in collaborating on these efforts then. This is why we are planting now despite the difficulties. Our primary goal is to replant in previously deforested areas and to introduce trees that provide food for birds."

A young participant involved in mangrove tree planting highlighted significant challenges faced in cultivating mangroves, including escalating fuel and sapling costs as well as constant artillery shelling and airstrikes from the junta.

 
"It's not as straightforward as before. Fuel prices have increased, and saplings are now seven percent more expensive. When transportation costs are factored in, there has been a 90 percent overall rise. Accessibility to roads has also diminished; thus, supplies must be sourced from distant locations. Additionally, we need to be vigilant about potential artillery shelling by the junta while planting," he explained.

Local inhabitants reported instances of mangrove trees being felled for firewood due to livelihood crises which continues to contribute to ongoing deforestation of mangroves.

Conservationists stressed that preserving mangrove forests is crucial given that the Arakan region is coastal; they warned that deforestation could lead to severe consequences such as heightened vulnerability to natural disasters and loss of water resources, including fish and shrimp.

"Mangrove forests shield us from natural disasters; during storms they mitigate wind speeds and obstruct sea waves propelled by wind from reaching coastal areas swiftly. Furthermore, mangroves play a pivotal role in combating climate change," emphasized Ko Myo Lwin.

Since 202, Ko Myo Lwin and his team have primarily focused on planting mangrove trees while simultaneously tending naturally growing plants.

In previous years, people planted mangroves along riverbanks within Ann township, such as Taungup and Kyaukphyu townships; however, ongoing conflicts have rendered certain areas unsuitable for further plantation activities.

Photo: Ko Myo Lwin