Mumbai has marked a milestone with the installation of 210 artificial reefs in the Arabian Sea near Worli Koliwada on Thursday, March 7. This is a first for Maharashtra and Mumbai while its second such initiative in India, after Pondicherry.
These artificial reefs are more than just underwater structures. They will work like carbon sinks and enhance the lives of Worli Koliwada's coastal residents. The reefs will start attracting small and large marine species after three months.
The project has been funded by the RPG Foundation. They have partnered with the Kuddle Life Foundation, a marine conservation non-profit that previously installed an artificial reef in Pondicherry. The project will cost INR 62 lakh and has received the green light from the state fisheries department.
An artificial reef is a man-made structure composed of steel and recycled cement from construction sites. Each reef module is designed to add 50 to 60 square feet to the sea surface.
A truck carrying 210 modules of three different types arrived near Worli Koliwada's Cleveland Bunder on Wednesday night. These modules were then lowered into the ocean, about 500 metres from the coastal road.
The transformation begins immediately after the reef is placed in the water. Micro and macro algae, after which a bacterial biofilm will start to appear, After 90 days, small ornamental and benthic fish will find a home and a breeding ground on the artificial reef. Six months later, larger fish of significant economic value will start visiting these reefs in search of food.
In a report by Indian Express, Dr. Mohamed Kasim, a retired principal scientist from the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), predicted that after a year, the reef will provide a steady supply of commercial fish and benefit local fishermen. The reefs will also serve as carbon sinks due to photosynthesis. He also mentioned the possibility of live coral colonies floating to these reefs and forming new colonies.
Local fishermen from Worli's Koliwada, who are currently facing declining revenues and fish catch, have been assisting the scientific team in executing the project. This initiative brings them hope for a better future.
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