Gujarat Declares Inland Mangrove Guneri as Its First Biodiversity Heritage Site

Introduction

In a landmark step toward ecological preservation, the Gujarat Biodiversity Board has declared the ‘Inland Mangrove Guneri’ in Kutch district as the state’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS). Spanning 32.78 hectares, this non-tidal mangrove ecosystem is unique in India and holds immense ecological value. The declaration reflects Gujarat’s deepening commitment to biodiversity conservation and community engagement.

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What Are Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS)?

BHS are designated areas that:

• Hold ecological, cultural, and biological significance
• Represent unique and rare ecosystems
• Are protected under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002
• Are recommended and advised by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)

BHS can include terrestrial, coastal, and inland water ecosystems, offering a legal and community-supported framework for conservation.

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The Uniqueness of Inland Mangrove Guneri

Unlike most mangroves, which thrive in tidal zones, the Guneri mangroves are:

• Located 45 km away from the Arabian Sea
• Not influenced by tidal waters
• Spread across flat inland terrain, resembling dense green forests

🌱 This rare ecosystem is home to distinct flora and fauna, contributing to the region’s rich biodiversity in an unexpected environment.

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Objectives Behind the Designation

Declaring Inland Mangrove Guneri as a BHS serves several key purposes:

• 🌿 Enhance conservation efforts in unique ecosystems
• 🧑‍🌾 Promote coexistence between nature and local communities
• 📚 Encourage conservation ethics and traditional knowledge
• 🌍 Improve the quality of life through sustainable practices
• 🚫 Combat rapid biodiversity loss in managed landscapes

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Management of Biodiversity Heritage Sites

Each BHS is managed by a Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC), formed at the local level.

🔧 Key responsibilities include:

• Preparing a 5–10 year management plan
• Ensuring sustainable use of local biological resources
• Collaborating with community members and ecology experts

This decentralised model empowers local bodies to lead conservation efforts with direct stake and participation.

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Role of Local Communities

Local communities are at the heart of the BHS framework:

• 📝 They help create the People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) — a record of local flora, fauna, and traditional knowledge
• 🤝 Under the Nagoya Protocol, they ensure equitable access and benefit-sharing
• 🛖 Continue traditional resource practices in harmony with conservation goals

🧑‍🌾 This approach values indigenous knowledge systems and builds community ownership in biodiversity protection.

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Capacity Building and Future Plans

To support the initiative:

• The Gujarat government will organise training programs for:
  • Local residents
  • Forest department personnel
• Focus areas:
  • Community-led conservation
  • Scientific monitoring
  • Sustainable livelihood support

These programs aim to empower local communities, especially indigenous forest-dwellers, to actively participate in managing and protecting their natural heritage.

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Conclusion

The declaration of the Inland Mangrove Guneri as Gujarat’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site is a historic moment in environmental stewardship. It not only preserves a rare mangrove ecosystem but also celebrates the role of local communities in conservation. As Gujarat steps forward with a model of inclusive ecological governance, this initiative sets a valuable precedent for other states across India.

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