For the first time in Maharashtra, artificial reefs were installed on the Mumbai coast near the Worli Koliwada area. Nearly 210 artificial reefs were installed in the Arabian Sea and they will act as a carbon sink in the area. These artificial reefs were made with recycled cement from construction sites and steel. Here’s everything you need to know about this initiative.
In A First, 210 Artificial Reefs Installed Near Mumbai Coastline
On Thursday, 210 artificial reefs were installed in the Arabian Sea, near Worli Koliwada. This is Maharashtra’s first artificial reef project. Also, after Pondicherry, Mumbai is the second coastal region to install artificial reefs in India. If all things go as planned, then this artificial reef will mature within three months. Once mature, these reefs will provide a home to small and large native species, act as a carbon sink, and also boost the livelihood of coastal communities in the area.
These artificial reefs are made with recycled cement from construction sites and steel. It is a concrete structure and will, reportedly, increase the sea surface by 50 to 60 sq ft. This ₹62 lakh project is an initiative of the RPG Foundation. They have joined hands with marine conservation NGO Kuddle Life Foundation for this project. The NGO helped the foundation with baseline surveys and also final installations.
Also Read: Good News! First Phase Of Mumbai’s Coastal Road To Open Next Week!
Everything You Need To Know About This Project
These artificial reefs in Mumbai were lowered into the Arabian Ocean on Thursday morning. They were installed about 500 metres from the edge of the coastal road. These artificial reefs were made in three different modules – triangular reef fish, groupers fish, and well ring modules.
A bacterial biofilm is said to develop on these reefs from day one. This will be followed by the formation of micro and macro algae. Then, after 90 days, it will be set to become a breeding ground for small aquatic animals. By 6 months, it is expected that larger fishers will start visiting the reefs as well! This will greatly help the fishermen at Worli’s Koliwada.
This is truly a laudable initiative by the RPG Foundation! Such innovative and forward-thinking projects can improve the living conditions of humans as well as coastal creatures in the area. What is your hot take on this? Let us know in the comments!
Cover Image Courtesy: RPG Foundation
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