What Does the New Greater Flamingo Sanctuary in Dhanushkodi Mean for Conservation?
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Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu government has taken a monumental step in conservation by officially designating a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi. This sanctuary, inaugurated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, aims to protect migratory birds and vital ecosystems while promoting ecotourism and local employment.
Key Takeaways
- The sanctuary spans 524.7 hectares.
- It is part of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.
- Over 10,700 wetland birds from 128 species have been recorded.
- The sanctuary supports vital ecosystems like mangroves and mudflats.
- It aims to boost ecotourism and local employment.
Chennai, June 5 (NationPress) In a significant advancement in the conservation of migratory bird habitats and the enhancement of biodiversity, the Tamil Nadu government has formally established a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi in the Ramanathapuram district.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated the sanctuary through video conferencing on Thursday, coinciding with the celebrations of World Environment Day organized by the Departments of Environment, Climate Change, and Forests in Chennai.
This newly designated sanctuary encompasses 524.7 hectares, integrating both revenue and forest lands within the Rameswaram taluka. It is part of the ecologically vital Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, which harbors diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, mudflats, marshes, and sand dunes. These habitats are essential for marine life, nesting sea turtles, and, importantly, thousands of migratory wetland birds.
The sanctuary is situated along the Central Asian Flyway, a principal migratory route for birds journeying between Eurasia and the Indian subcontinent.
In a wetland bird survey conducted in 2023–2024, the Dhanushkodi area reported over 10,700 wetland birds across 128 species, including herons, egrets, sandpipers, and both Greater and Lesser Flamingos.
A Government Order (GO), released on Wednesday by Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Climate Change, and Forests, Supriya Sahu, underscored the ecological significance of the region.
The Dhanushkodi lagoon is primarily dominated by the mangrove species Avicennia and Rhizophora, which serve as natural defenses against coastal erosion and provide crucial breeding grounds for wildlife. The sanctuary is anticipated to foster responsible ecotourism, create local job opportunities, and enhance public awareness regarding wetland conservation, as outlined in the GO. This initiative aligns with the state’s overarching commitment to safeguarding fragile ecosystems in the face of climate change and urban development.
The World Environment Day event saw participation from several prominent officials, including Minister Thangam Thenarasu, who oversees the Environment portfolio, Forest Minister R.S. Rajakannappan, and ACS Sahu. Other attendees included MSME Minister T.M. Anbarasan, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, Srinivas Reddy, and Chief Wildlife Warden Rakesh Kumar Dogra.
This declaration represents a pivotal landmark in Tamil Nadu’s conservation efforts, reinforcing the necessity of preserving its unique coastal and wetland ecosystems for future generations.
Point of View
This sanctuary stands as a beacon of hope in the ongoing battle against climate change and biodiversity loss. It reflects Tamil Nadu's commitment to ecological preservation while balancing development and conservation. This initiative is a vital step towards creating sustainable habitats for wildlife, ensuring that future generations inherit a thriving environment.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the area of the Greater Flamingo Sanctuary?
The Greater Flamingo Sanctuary spans 524.7 hectares.
What types of ecosystems are found in the sanctuary?
The sanctuary includes mangroves, mudflats, marshes, and sand dunes, all of which are crucial for biodiversity.
How many wetland bird species were recorded in Dhanushkodi?
A survey recorded over 10,700 wetland birds belonging to 128 species.
What is the significance of the Central Asian Flyway?
The Central Asian Flyway is a critical migratory route for birds traveling between Eurasia and the Indian subcontinent.
How will the sanctuary promote ecotourism?
The sanctuary is expected to generate local employment and raise awareness about wetland conservation, thus fostering responsible ecotourism.
