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Key Points

Tamil Nadu has officially established a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary in Dhanushkodi, marking a significant step in wildlife conservation. The 524.7-hectare sanctuary covers crucial ecological zones within the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve. It provides critical habitat for over 10,700 wetland birds representing 128 different species along the Central Asian Flyway. The sanctuary aims to protect marine ecosystems, support biodiversity, and promote responsible ecotourism in the region.

Key Points: Stalin Launches Greater Flamingo Sanctuary in Dhanushkodi

  • New sanctuary spans 524.7 hectares in Ramanathapuram district
  • Supports 128 bird species and critical migratory routes
  • Protects mangrove ecosystems and wildlife habitats
  • Promotes ecological conservation and sustainable tourism
2 min read

TN notifies Greater Flamingo sanctuary at Dhanushkodi

Tamil Nadu creates 524-hectare sanctuary protecting migratory birds along Central Asian Flyway, supporting biodiversity and ecosystem conservation

"This sanctuary marks a significant milestone in our conservation journey - M.K. Stalin, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister"

Chennai, June 5

In a major step towards protecting migratory bird habitats and promoting biodiversity, the Tamil Nadu government has officially notified a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi in Ramanathapuram district.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated the sanctuary via video conferencing on Thursday, coinciding with World Environment Day celebrations organised by the Departments of Environment, Climate Change and Forests in Chennai.

The newly designated sanctuary spans 524.7 hectares, covering both revenue and forest lands within Rameswaram taluka. It forms a part of the ecologically significant Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, which supports diverse ecosystems including mangroves, mudflats, marshes, and sand dunes. These habitats are crucial for marine life, nesting sea turtles, and, notably, thousands of migratory wetland birds.

The sanctuary lies along the Central Asian Flyway, a major migratory route used by birds travelling between Eurasia and the Indian subcontinent.

According to a 2023–2024 wetland bird survey, the Dhanushkodi region recorded over 10,700 wetland birds representing 128 species, including herons, egrets, sandpipers, and both Greater and Lesser Flamingos.

A Government Order (GO), issued on Wednesday by Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Climate Change, and Forests, Supriya Sahu, emphasised the area’s ecological value.

Mangrove species Avicennia and Rhizophora dominate the Dhanushkodi lagoon, acting as natural buffers against coastal erosion and serving as vital breeding grounds for wildlife. The sanctuary is expected to promote responsible ecotourism, generate local employment, and increase public awareness about wetland conservation, according to the GO. The move also aligns with the state’s broader commitment to protecting fragile ecosystems amid the challenges of climate change and urban expansion.

The World Environment Day event witnessed the participation of several key officials, including Minister Thangam Thenarasu, who holds additional charge of Environment, Forest Minister R.S. Rajakannappan, and ACS Sahu. Also present were 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 marks a significant milestone in Tamil Nadu’s conservation journey, reinforcing the importance of preserving its unique coastal and wetland ecosystems for future generations.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
This is fantastic news! Tamil Nadu is setting an example for wildlife conservation. The flamingos are such beautiful creatures, and protecting their habitat will also boost eco-tourism. Kudos to the government! 🌿🦩
R
Rahul M.
Great initiative, but I hope they ensure proper implementation. Many sanctuaries in India face issues like illegal encroachment and lack of maintenance. The government must allocate sufficient funds and staff for long-term success.
S
Sneha V.
As someone who visited Dhanushkodi last year, I can say this area is truly magical. The flamingos are a sight to behold! Hope this sanctuary helps preserve the natural beauty for generations to come. 🙌
A
Arjun P.
While I appreciate the conservation effort, I hope local fishermen's livelihoods aren't affected. Many depend on these waters for their survival. The government should involve them in the planning process.
K
Kavita S.
Wonderful decision! The Gulf of Mannar is a biodiversity hotspot that needs more protection. Maybe next they can focus on reducing plastic pollution in these sensitive ecosystems. Every small step counts!
V
Vijay R.
I remember seeing these pink beauties during my childhood visits to Rameswaram. Glad future generations will get to experience this too. Conservation and development must go hand in hand. Well done TN government!
N
Neha T.
This is good, but what about existing threats like industrial pollution and climate change? The sanctuary needs strong protection measures and regular monitoring to be truly effective. Hope they have a proper action

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