Dear Editor,
I have read various news items and letters on the controversy surrounding removing mangrove trees in the Malgre Tout/ Versailles area. It seems as if many of the utterances were an emotional reaction rather than a scientific one.
One recognizes the vast importance of the mangrove trees. They help stabilize the coastline ecosystem and prevent erosion. However, nature’s ways are not perfect, and one must appreciate its limitations. Man-made kokers are necessary, for example, to help control floods.
Would the Tristar proposed development significantly affect the ecosystem and contribute to the destruction of the environment and degradation of the shoreline? The developer/government has indicated that they will install structures (steel sheet piling) to strengthen the shoreline and do whatever to help protect the environment.
As someone who has studied the field of Resource Management and one who promotes conservation and environmental protection, I have recognized the need to appreciate the three-pillar conception of social, economic and ecological sustainability. Suppose the developer is conscious of the social and physical environment and the need to sustain the vista and ecosystem of the area (as seems to be the case). In that case, I surmise that the development should proceed.
(It seems as if the Ramada Inn/Pegasus Hotel folks did a marvellous job at their shoreline. They have an attractive man-made beach, and there are no mangroves there!)
There are push and pull factors to choose either economic growth or environmental protection. At times, we can achieve both if proper planning is in place.
Yours truly,
Devanand Bhagwan
