In a pioneering effort to combat the challenges of climate change in remote coastal villages of Odisha, marine scientists Professor Dinabandhu Sahoo and Dr Sanjukta Sahoo have implemented unique strategies at the grassroots level.
Professor Sahoo, a marine scientist at Delhi University, and Dr Sanjukta Sahoo, a Civil Engineering Faculty at KIIT, Bhubaneswar, have developed various types of artificial reefs through laboratory experiments. These artificial reefs, deployed for the first time in Odisha’s coastal waters, aim to address the multifaceted impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems.
Rising carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere have led to a myriad of climate-related challenges, including increased temperatures, frequent cyclonic storms, ocean acidification, loss of biodiversity, and degraded ecosystems. Artificial reefs serve as a solution by enhancing fisheries productivity, restoring marine habitats, and promoting biodiversity, according to Prof. Sahoo.
Artificial reef construction is a significant industry globally, with countries like the USA, France, Japan, and Australia deploying millions of reefs to boost their economies and enhance marine ecosystems. Odisha’s extensive coastline presents an opportunity to explore the viability of artificial reefs for sustainable development.
Designed with specific materials and configurations, artificial reefs not only provide habitats for marine species but also mitigate wave action, offering protection against cyclonic storms. Dr Sanjukta Sahoo highlights their role in facilitating carbon dioxide sequestration by promoting the growth of seaweeds and aquatic plants.
Moreover, artificial reefs create employment opportunities for coastal communities, enhancing fisheries production and fostering marine ecotourism initiatives.
In a remarkable innovation, an “Indian Seaweeds Wheel” resembling the Ashok Chakra has been submerged in coastal waters to absorb carbon dioxide and combat climate change. The Sahoos are also planning to design colorful artificial corals to simulate natural reefs, further promoting marine ecotourism.
These efforts align with the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, aimed at transforming India’s fisheries and aquaculture sector, showcasing the potential of innovative solutions in addressing climate change challenges at the grassroots level.
Read Now:Taiwan and India Forge Agreement to Bring Indian Migrant Workers
