Chennai, Jan 20 (NationPress) The government of Tamil Nadu has embarked on a significant ecological restoration initiative by calling for proposals for the creation of the Kadambur Biodiversity Conservation Park located near Chengalpattu.

This project will be executed as part of the World Bank-supported Tamil Nadu Strengthening Coastal Resilience and Economy (TN-SHORE) program, aiming to rehabilitate degraded landscapes while enhancing climate resilience and fostering sustainable eco-tourism.

Spanning an area of 137.65 hectares, the Kadambur park is designed to be a multifunctional ecological area that integrates conservation, education, and low-impact tourism. The goal is to rejuvenate fragile ecosystems and transform underused land into a thriving biodiversity-rich zone that functions as both a conservation center and a public learning facility.

Officials indicated that the initiative would significantly bolster the ecological security of the region while establishing green recreational infrastructure. A primary aspect of the project involves rejuvenating the Kadambur eri (lake) and its associated wetlands, which are vital for local hydrology and biodiversity.

The master plan includes recreating the five classical Tamil Sangam landscapes—Kurinji, Mullai, Marutham, Neithal, and Palai—each representing unique ecological zones. The park will also incorporate thematic gardens, a cloud-forest conservatory, a herbarium, seed banks, cultural villages, cycling paths, observation decks, and additional eco-friendly visitor amenities.

Execution is planned in two phases. The initial pre-construction phase will encompass topographical and ecological assessments, soil evaluations, obtaining necessary approvals, and eradicating invasive species like Prosopis juliflora. The following construction phase will involve desilting and reinforcing the Kadambur eri, implementing rainwater harvesting, restoring wetlands, developing native landscapes, and erecting essential facilities, including the proposed Megam Katu Conservatory.

To address environmental and social issues, the project features a comprehensive Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP). This plan details strategies for soil and water conservation, controlling dust and noise during construction, and protecting biodiversity through designated no-go zones around sensitive habitats.

Furthermore, it includes protocols for safe wildlife relocation, local job creation, a grievance resolution system, and safeguards against gender-based violence at construction sites. The State Forest Department’s Chengalpattu Division will oversee the project execution, with supervision from the TN-SHORE State Project Management Unit and the World Bank.

With an allocation of Rs 32.70 lakh for implementing the ESMP and Rs 12 lakh for monitoring, this initiative is anticipated to significantly boost biodiversity, enhance climate resilience, and establish the region as a benchmark for sustainable nature-based tourism.