The growth of grass on the saline sea beach of Chandipur has stoked fear that it would turn a grass land. Nature lovers
are dismayed over the phenomenon as the grass on the beach is affecting its beauty.

According to environmentalists, it is a rare occurrence to find grass or vegetation on a saline beach. They fear that if the seawater did not reach the shore regularly, grass would grow luxuriantly spreading over vast patch of area.

Locals said that they had never seen such grass at the vast beach in Chandipur. But, now the area from Chandipur to Balaramgadi and Naupalgadi are covered with green grass. Earlier, the beach was flooded with seawater every day. Visitors used to wait until dawn to see the rising tide of the sea. However, the tides are touching the shore only on full moon and new moon days. The salinity of the soil is assumed to be declining due to lack of regular tides for which the grass has grown on the beach.

“Growing grass on the beach in Chandipur is a rare occurrence because it is one of the strand plain beaches. Every day, sea tides touch the shore and return to the deep sea. It’s not possible for grass or shrubs to grow on soil rich in seawater. However, it’s a good sign. More research is needed on what types of grass grow in salt water. In addition, a beautiful garden can be made in the place for tourists visiting Chandipur beach,” said Professor Suryendu Dey from the Environment Science Department, Fakir Mohan University.

Speaking over the development, renowned researcher and Zoology Professor Bishnu Charan Das said, “Such changes at Chandipur beach can be attributed to climate change. Due to cyclonic storms frequently forming over the Bay of Bengal, the State is witnessing both sea erosion at many places and receding of sea water in some coastal area. As the tides move in, the salt content of the soil continues to decrease due to rainfall, paving the way for growth of plants under influence of freshwater and mud.”

“This apart, many people visit the sea beach for worship on various occasions. Grass, paddy and a variety of grains they bring for worship are used there. When the shore loses its salt content, the grass begins to grow. However, extensive scientific research is required to ascertain the cause,” he opined.

Meanwhile, samples containing grass and soil of the Chandipur beach have been sent for examination.