Kachchh in Gujarat is in news because its rare indigenous Kharai camel is facing a serious ecological threat due to the decline of mangrove habitats, illegal salt pan expansion and encroachment of tidal creeks. The issue has continued despite multiple interventions by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).The Kharai camel is known for its rare ability to swim long distances and graze on mangroves. However, the loss of mangrove grazing areas is now threatening both the camel population and the pastoral communities linked with this unique ecosystem.
The National Green Tribunal has scheduled a hearing on 9 July regarding illegal salt pans and creek encroachment in Kachchh. The matter is significant because community representatives have warned that this may be one of the final opportunities to save the habitat before it is permanently lost.The issue involves the destruction of mangrove grazing grounds, obstruction of tidal creeks and illegal expansion of salt pans in Coastal Regulation Zone-I protected areas.
The Kharai camel is closely associated with the mangrove ecosystem of Kachchh. Unlike ordinary camels, it depends on brackish water, tidal flows and wild estuarine ecosystems. It does not thrive in pens or ordinary pastures.Mangroves serve as the primary fodder source for the Kharai camel. They also act as carbon sinks, protect the coast from erosion and provide safe breeding areas for aquatic life.
The NGT had issued directions in 2020 to the Gujarat Forest Department, Gujarat Coastal Zone Management Authority and revenue officials to jointly inspect the area and identify persons responsible for obstructing creeks and illegally expanding salt pans.The Tribunal also directed that action be taken as per law, damaged areas be recovered and restoration cost for damaged mangroves be estimated. However, community representatives argue that adequate action has not been taken so far.
According to the India State Forest Survey of India 2023, Kachchh district recorded the highest mangrove loss compared to 2021, with a decline of 61.14 sq km.Community representatives also claimed that between 2018 and 2023, mangrove cover shrank from 4,084 hectares to 1,312 hectares, while salt pans expanded from 13,681 hectares to 17,918 hectares inside CRZ-I protected zones.
| Indicator | Earlier Figure | Later Figure |
|---|---|---|
| Mangrove cover | 4,084 hectares | 1,312 hectares |
| Salt pans | 13,681 hectares | 17,918 hectares |
| Mangrove loss in Kachchh | — | 61.14 sq km |
The violations documented in reports include embankment of tidal creeks, uprooting of mangroves, use of bulldozers and fire to clear land, and mass marine life deaths.The Deendayal Port Trust, which issued many of the salt leases in question, has also been criticised for failing to enforce safeguards. A second execution appeal was filed in December 2024, citing continued non-compliance.
The habitat degradation has directly affected camel breeders, especially pastoral communities such as the Maldharis. These communities do not own land but have traditional knowledge of mangroves, creeks and migratory routes used by camels.As mangroves disappear and creeks are encroached, camel movement gets blocked and access to feeding grounds is reduced. This directly threatens the livelihood of camel breeders and weakens the pastoral culture associated with Kachchh’s ecology.
The petitioners have demanded cancellation of illegal salt leases granted in CRZ-I areas and accountability for violators. They have also demanded reopening of tidal creeks, ecological restoration of mangroves and recognition of the Kharai camel and pastoralists as ecological custodians.
The Kharai camel is a rare indigenous camel breed of Kachchh, Gujarat. It is known for its ability to swim long distances and graze on mangroves. Its survival is closely linked to mangrove forests, tidal creeks and estuarine ecosystems.
Mangroves in Kachchh provide:
| Function | Importance |
|---|---|
| Fodder | Primary food source for Kharai camels |
| Carbon sink | Helps in carbon storage |
| Coastal protection | Protects coast from erosion |
| Aquatic breeding | Provides safe breeding areas for marine life |
| Livelihood support | Supports pastoral communities |
| Institution / Body | Role Mentioned in Input |
|---|---|
| National Green Tribunal | Issued orders and scheduled hearing on 9 July |
| Gujarat Forest Department | Directed to inspect affected areas |
| Gujarat Coastal Zone Management Authority | Directed to inspect and act on violations |
| Deendayal Port Trust | Issued many salt leases in question |
| Kachchh Unt Ucherak Maldhari Sangathan | Community-based organisation representing the case |
| Kachchh Camel Breeders Association | Represents camel breeder concerns |
Updated – 27 June 2025 ; 06:15 PM | Down to Earth