Tamil Nadu government notifies greater flamingo sanctuary at Dhanushkodi, Pg2

Key Highlights:

• Tamil Nadu declared a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi, Ramanathapuram district.
• Sanctuary spans 524.7 hectares, part of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.
• Declared on World Environment Day, June 5, 2024, by CM M.K. Stalin.
• Region hosts 10,700+ wetland birds across 128 species as per 202324 survey.
• Sanctuary lies on the Central Asian Flyway, crucial for migratory wetland birds.
• Ecosystems include mangroves, sand dunes, mudflats, marshesvital for biodiversity and coastal resilience.

Detailed Insights:

• The Dhanushkodi region plays a key role as a stopover habitat for migratory birds, including greater and lesser flamingos, herons, and sandpipers.
• The designation of sanctuary status is expected to:
  • Strengthen wetland conservation,
  • Prevent habitat degradation, and
  • Promote sustainable ecotourism and local employment.
  • The move reflects India's commitment under Ramsar Convention and flyway-level cooperation for migratory bird conservation.
• The presence of mangrove species (Avicennia, Rhizophora) enhances coastal protection, water quality, and supports breeding for aquatic species.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Central Asian Flyway: A major bird migration route spanning from Siberia to the Indian subcontinent, supporting over 300 species.
• Biosphere Reserve: Protected areas under UNESCO to promote conservation, sustainable use, and research.
• Mangroves: Salt-tolerant trees vital for shoreline protection and biodiversity support.

Mains Mock Question:

Critically examine the ecological significance of coastal wetland sanctuaries like the one at Dhanushkodi. How can such initiatives contribute to conservation and sustainable development?