Mangrove governance, its challenges, and responses to the 2004 earthquake and tsunami in the Andaman islands, India: A stakeholder perspective

Abstract

The Andaman Islands in India offer a unique case for studying mangrove social-ecological system (SES) governance due to their expansive mangrove cover of 600 km² (∼12 % of India's mangrove area), multicultural population, centralised governance from mainland India, and the 2004 earthquake and tsunami's transformative impacts on the islands. This study examines multiple stakeholder perceptions of mangrove SES governance, its challenges, and changes caused by the 2004 seismic event's subsidence and uplift. Further, we discuss strategies for addressing the governance challenges. We conducted and analysed 62 in-depth semi-structured interviews with diverse stakeholders in areas affected by subsidence and uplift, supplemented by a document analysis of scientific literature, regulations and policies. Findings show that while mangrove tree harvesting is prohibited, the mangrove fisheries sector remains under-regulated and poorly monitored. Mangrove planting by the Forest Department increased post-tsunami, driven by the recognition of coastal protection services, but often failed due to non-adaptation to elevation changes. Key governance challenges include top-down exclusionary management by the Forest Department, regulatory ambiguities over mangrove resources, lack of cross-sectoral collaboration, limited community participation due to complex settler histories, and stakeholder conflicts over resource use and ownership. These challenges are exacerbated by the 2004 seismic event. To overcome these barriers, clear resource management guidelines, scientific assessments and input, regular monitoring and improved stakeholder communication and participation are essential for fair decision-making and consistent implementation.