Goa, July 26, 2025 — The break of dawn on World Mangrove Conservation Day witnessed a powerful wave of environmental enthusiasm as hundreds of volunteers gathered along the Cortalim Causeway, joining hands—literally and figuratively—to plant over 500 mangrove saplings in a heartfelt act of climate resilience.
Titled “Come Let’s Man-Groove,” the event was led by St. Joseph Vaz College, Cortalim’s Department of Botany, under the stewardship of Rev. Dr. Bolmax Pereira, in collaboration with One Earth Foundation, Goencho Ekvott, Chicalim Youth Farmers Club, and Nisarga Nature Club.
The drive was not just about planting trees, but restoring ecological balance and creating long-lasting green shields along the Zuari River. The mangroves—especially Rhizophora mucronata, Bruguiera cylindrica, and Kandelia candel—act as blue carbon sinks, mitigate storm surges, and prevent erosion.
“This pioneering movement has continued despite the challenges of planting in waist-deep sediment-filled water,” said Orville Dourado Rodrigues of Goencho Ekvott, highlighting the long-standing partnership with St. Joseph Vaz College in restoring mangrove ecosystems.
The weekend began with sapling collection from Divar Island, involving locals and even children—like a four-year-old girl who joined the collection drive with her parent. A diverse crowd turned up for the Sunday planting: students, architects, farmers, cyclists, and young eco-volunteers.
Architect Tallulah Dsilva praised the spirit of the event:
“For the fourth year now, like a family, we come together to restore our riverine edges. These mangroves are our climate protectors.”
First-time participant and permaculturist Ahaana Rao was equally moved:
“It was not only informative, but deeply emotional—reconnecting with nature through action.”
Members of Frosty Blends Cycling Club joined in after spotting the plantation en route. Asif Hussein, a mentor, encouraged young cyclists to get muddy and learn something new.
“What started as a regular ride turned into something meaningful,” said Hamid Khan, a student volunteer.
Organizers, including Ms. Alisha Pereira of CYFC and Ferdin Sylvestre from One Earth Foundation, emphasized the importance of youth-led conservation, with Sidhesh Bandodkar from Heritage Village Resorts echoing the joy of connecting with nature.
The event closed with an inspiring note from Fr. Bolmax Pereira, the man behind the movement:
“The ‘Come Let’s Man-Groove’ initiative is a living testimony of community action. We will keep planting mangroves as long as we can.”
In a time when the world grapples with climate challenges, Goa shows that change begins at the grassroots—with mud on your hands and mangroves in your heart.
📍Location: Cortalim Causeway, Goa
📅 Occasion: World Mangrove Conservation Day
🌊 Impact: 500+ saplings, community-wide awareness, and a message of hope rooted in action.
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