The Water Resources Department initiated the cleaning of the Mapusa river which is infested by the invasive water hyacinth (jalkhumbhi) weed. The work of de-weeding is being conducted at an estimated cost of ₹10 lakhs. Works to clean the said river was proposed in March this year. The river passes through the Mapusa and Aldona regions. The weed clogs the river, causing damage to marine environment.
A threat to environment
As per the officials, the rapid growth of the water hyacinth in the river Mapusa is dangerous for the ecology. The locals also mentioned that it blocks the sunlight from entering the river, causing harm to the marine ecosystem. Considering the city’s busy schedule during Panchayat election and the imposition of model code of conduct, the work to clean the river has been taken up on priority basis.
What is Water Hyacinth?
Water hyacinth is a type of invasive floating plant found in water bodies across the world. These invasive species block the sunlight reaching and oxygen level in water systems, which results in damaging water quality and serious affecting various lifeforms in the ecosystem.
As per the reports, in the last few months the spread of the water hyacinth has increased in the Mapusa river. And as a result, a large area of the river now lies under the blanket of the aquatic plant, causing troubles for the fishermen in the region.
