Bhitarkanika Mangroves as Natural Buffers: Enhancing Climate Resilience and Livelihood Security in the Mahanadi Delta
摘要
The Bhitarkanika Mangroves, located in the Mahanadi Delta of Odisha, play a pivotal role in enhancing ecological resilience and sustaining community livelihoods in one of India’s most climate-vulnerable regions. This article examines the multiple ecosystem services offered by Bhitarkanika, including storm surge protection, erosion control, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation. It highlights the dependence of local communities on mangrove-based resources for fishing, honey collection, and eco-tourism, while acknowledging the pressing challenges of sea-level rise, cyclones, and unsustainable development. The paper further explores nature-based solutions such as mangrove afforestation, bio-shield projects, and wetland restoration efforts. Emphasis is placed on governance mechanisms, policy gaps, and the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern technologies like GIS for effective monitoring and management. The article concludes with actionable recommendations to strengthen the role of Bhitarkanika mangroves as natural climate buffers and socio-economic stabilizers in the Mahanadi Delta.