Government of Tamil Nadu. is planning a community-led ecotourism project in Rameswaram

The proposal submitted by the Wildlife Division, Ramanathapuram envisages a seabird interpretation centre, bird watching platform, pergola etc. at Dhanushkodi.

The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has started the process of preparing a detailed project report (DPR) for the development of community-based ecotourism infrastructure at Rameswaram Island to create local livelihoods while promoting conservation of the ecologically sensitive Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.

Wildlife Division, Ramanathapuram has submitted a request for proposal for the appointment of a consultant for the preparation of DPR under the Tamil Nadu Sustainable Coastal Restoration (TN-SHORE) project supported by the World Bank.

According to the brief, currently the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust has 252 ecological development committees covering around 2,550 self-help groups engaged in providing alternative livelihood to fishermen families. The proposed ecotourism initiative seeks to build on this network by creating employment opportunities through community-led tourism while ensuring the conservation of biodiversity.

Goals include harnessing the blue economy through responsible ecotourism, strengthening infrastructure managed by local ecological development committees, creating jobs for local youth, improving awareness of marine ecosystems among visitors, and training young people as eco-guides, lifeguards, diving experts, and kayak instructors.

The proposed infrastructure includes a Mangrove Nature Park and coral boating facility at Kunthukal with a visitor orientation centre, mangrove nursery, marine and coral interpretation centre, mangrove walkway, observation deck, marine cafe, information boards and marine safaris around the coastal and mangrove areas.

At Dhanushkodi, the proposal envisages a seabird interpretation centre, a bird-watching platform, a pergola, information boards, a selfie point and a sea cafe. The consultant will have to carry out field inspections, DGPS surveys, soil testing and other environmental assessments before preparing the DPR.

Published – 02 Jul 2026 20:06 IST