Will TN Restore Mangroves with Direct World Bank Funding to Village Councils?
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Synopsis
In an unprecedented move, the World Bank is bypassing traditional funding methods to empower village councils in Tamil Nadu for mangrove restoration. This project aims to strengthen coastal resilience while addressing significant ecological concerns. Discover how this initiative could transform coastal communities and contribute to biodiversity.
Key Takeaways
- Direct funding empowers local communities.
- Restoration of 300 hectares of new mangrove plantations.
- Rehabilitation of 700 hectares of degraded wetlands.
- Focus on critical habitats like Pulicat and Pichavaram.
- Investment of Rs 100 crore for shoreline protection.
Chennai, Sep 24 (NationPress) In a significant effort to empower coastal communities, the World Bank has opted to circumvent the conventional tendering process, directly allocating funds to village-run mangrove councils for the execution of the Tamil Nadu Strengthening Coastal Resilience and the Economy Project (TN-SHORE).
This initiative, encompassing all 14 coastal districts, aims to restore mangroves, establish bioshields, and protect vulnerable areas along the State's 906 km coastline.
Through this project, Village Mangrove Councils (VMCs) will be responsible for planting on 300 hectares of new areas and rehabilitating 700 hectares of degraded wetlands. Each council is recognized as a society and manages a joint bank account overseen by the council president and the forest range officer. Funds for activities such as nursery establishment, mangrove planting, wetland restoration, and bioshield construction will be deposited directly into these accounts.
Officials have indicated that this operational model reflects the existing framework with Village Forest Committees.
The TN-SHORE project is being implemented amid growing ecological concerns. A World Bank environmental framework highlights that 43 percent of Tamil Nadu’s coastline is at risk of erosion, with the state having historically lost 17 percent of its mangroves and nearly 10 percent of its coral cover.
Key habitats such as Pulicat, Pichavaram, Muthupet, and the Gulf of Mannar are prioritized for restoration efforts.
Over the next five years, the initiative will also fund shoreline protection methods and bioshields covering 550 hectares, with an investment of approximately Rs 100 crore. Coastal tree species like casuarina, palmyrah, and cashew will be cultivated as bioshields to serve as natural barriers against cyclones, storm surges, and coastal erosion.
In addition to their protective role, these plantations are anticipated to enhance biodiversity and provide economic benefits for coastal residents.
As per the latest government mangrove report, Tamil Nadu has already achieved an impressive 82 percent increase in mangrove cover over the past three decades, rising from 23 sq km in 1987 to 41.91 sq km in 2023.
Officials are optimistic that this community-driven procurement model will expedite conservation efforts while ensuring transparency and local ownership of the initiative.
Point of View
I see this initiative as a vital step toward environmental sustainability. Direct funding to village councils empowers local communities, fostering both ecological conservation and economic growth. It's essential for national progress that we adopt innovative approaches to address climate change and coastal vulnerabilities.
NationPress
24/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TN-SHORE project?
The TN-SHORE project is an initiative funded by the World Bank aimed at restoring mangroves and enhancing coastal resilience in Tamil Nadu.
How will funds be allocated to village councils?
Funds will be directly channeled to village-run mangrove councils, allowing for efficient management of resources without traditional tendering processes.
What areas are prioritized for restoration?
Key habitats prioritized for restoration include Pulicat, Pichavaram, Muthupet, and the Gulf of Mannar.
What are the expected benefits of this project?
The project aims to improve biodiversity, provide livelihood support for coastal residents, and protect vulnerable shorelines from erosion.
How much mangrove cover has Tamil Nadu gained recently?
Tamil Nadu has achieved an 82 percent increase in mangrove cover over the last three decades, expanding from 23 sq km in 1987 to 41.91 sq km in 2023.
