Ecotourism project begins at Munderikadavu amid conservation concerns

The first phase of the much-awaited ecotourism project at Munderikadavu, a haven for migratory birds that is proposed to be developed into a bird sanctuary, has commenced with plans to create extensive facilities for tourists and bird watchers.

The ₹79-lakh project, undertaken by the Tourism department, envisages facilities such as beautification works, toilet blocks, mobile counters, direction boards, bird dens, plantations, and watch towers. The construction is being carried out by the Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society, while the Echur Service Cooperative Bank has been selected as the maintenance agency through competitive tendering. Authorities plan to complete the first phase of the project within three months.

Home to over 500 bird species and rich aquatic life, including fish and crabs, Munderikadavu has long been recognised as an ecological hotspot. Though funds had been allocated in the State budget 11 years ago for its conservation, the project was delayed until persistent petitions from residents revived it.

The project promises to transform the sanctuary into a major ecotourism destination with facilities such as parking, coffee shops, souvenir outlets, information boards, guide services, viewing decks, kayaking, angling, cycling, boat jetties, and hiking trails. Officials believe the initiative will not only enhance the visitor experience but also generate employment opportunities and boost regional development.

The sanctuary is located in Munderi grama panchayat in Kannur. The area spans 7.5 square kilometres of wetlands, including Varamkadavu, Kattampally, Pullooppi, Chirakkal, Elayavoor, Kuttiattoor, and Veliyannoor. Migratory birds arrive here from Siberia and the Eurasian Himalayas, with more than one lakh birds recorded between October and March.

This includes Garganey, Lesser Whistling Duck, Cotton Pygmy Goose, Kirala, Brown-breasted Flycatcher, Black-winged Stilt, Purple Heron, Grey-headed Swamphen, Paddyfield Pipit, and Greater Coucal.

Twelve rare bird species have been recorded in the area, which experiences minimal human interference. Four species of falcons from the Aquila family, listed in the Red Data Book due to their endangered status, have also been spotted here. Birdwatchers estimate that lakhs of birds from more than 200 species visit the sanctuary each year, drawn by its rich biodiversity and favourable climatic conditions. In addition to birds, around fifty rare fish species have also been documented.

While local groups have welcomed the project, noting that sustainable eco-tourism could support both conservation and livelihoods, the forest department and environmentalists have raised concerns. The Malabar Awareness and Rescue Center for Wildlife (MARC) warned that surveys conducted over the past four years indicate a decline in bird populations. “One percent of the world’s duck population congregates here, but the numbers have dropped drastically due to human activity. Further interventions will only disturb the migratory species. A proper scientific study must precede any project,” said Roshnath Ramesh, secretary, MARC.

Forest officials also raised objections, pointing out that no permission has been sought for the project. “This is a sanctuary for birds, and the proposed activities will definitely affect them,” said Vysak Sasi, Division Forest Officer, Kannur. He said that the area hosts extensive mangrove forests that sustain bird life. The Forest Department has submitted a ₹45-crore proposal to acquire 450 hectares of privately owned mangroves, with 336 landowners already expressing willingness to hand over their land. Pending government approval, the project aims to declare the mangroves a reserve forest to provide long-term protection for the bird population.