Sri Lanka Red Cross Society Leads Major Mangrove Restoration Drive in Naravikulam, Mannar

In a landmark initiative to bolster coastal conservation and enhance climate resilience, the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society (SLRCS), in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and DELIMA, successfully planted 1,500 mangrove saplings in Naravikulam, Mannar.

The event brought together a strong network of collaborators, including the Divisional Secretariat, Grama Niladhari divisions, University of Jaffna, Sri Lanka Navy, Police, Army, Forest Department, and the Department of Wildlife Conservation. Their combined expertise and resources ensured the success and sustainability of the plantation effort.

In addition, awareness and training sessions were conducted for over 200 students from local schools and the University of Jaffna, equipping them with valuable knowledge on the ecological importance of mangroves, their role in mitigating climate change, and their contribution to biodiversity and coastal protection.

Mangroves, often referred to as nature’s frontline defenders, play a critical role in reducing coastal erosion, providing habitats for marine life, and acting as natural barriers against storm surges. This initiative reflects SLRCS’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, aligning with global efforts to address climate change through nature-based solutions.