The first phase of the highly anticipated ecotourism project in Munderikadav, a refuge for migratory birds, which is proposed to evolve in the bird’s shrine, began with plans to create large facilities for tourists and birds.
Project 79-LAKH, carried out by the Department of Tourism, assumes devices such as beautification, toilet blocks, mobile shelves, directional plates, birds, plantations and tracking towers. The construction is carried out by Then Mala Ecoturism Promotion Society, while Echur Service Cooperative Bank was selected as a maintenance agency through a competing bid procedure. Authorities plan to complete the first phase of the project within three months.
Mundericadav, a home for more than 500 species of birds and rich water life, including fish and crabs, has long been recognized as an ecological hotspot. Although the funds were assigned in the state budget 11 years ago to maintain it, the project was delayed as long as it was revived by the persistent petition of the population.
The project promises to transform the sanctuary to the main objective of ecotourism with devices such as parking, cafes, souvenir sales, information plates, guides, deck, kayaking, fishing, cycling, ships and hiking trails. Officials believe that the initiative will not only improve the experience of visitors, but also create job opportunities and increase regional development.
The sanctuary is located in Mundei Gram Panchayat in Kannur. This area extends 7.5 km of wetlands, including Varamcadav, Kattampelly, Pullooppi, Chirakkal, Elayavoor, Kuttaittoor and Veliyannor. Migration birds come here from Siberia and Eurasian Himalayas, with more than one lake recording between October
These include Garganey, a smaller whistle of duck, cotton pygmy goose, kiral, brown breasts that fly, black -winged, purple heron, gray -headed Bavic, Paddyfield Pipit and Greater Coucal.
Twelve rare bird species have experienced minimal human interference. There were also four species of Sokol from the Aquila Sokol, listed in the red data book because of their endangered state. Birdwatchers estimate that the lakh birds from more than 200 species visit the sanctuary every year, attracted by its rich biological diversity and favorable climatic conditions. In addition to birds, about fifty rare fish species were also documented.
While local groups welcomed this project and noted that sustainable eco-tourism could promote both protection and livelihood, forest departments and environmentalists have raised concerns. Malabar’s awareness and a rescue center for wildlife (Marc) warned that surveys conducted over the past four years have been indicating a decline in birds’ populations. “One percent of the world population of ducks is gathered here, but the numbers have declined drastically due to human activity. Other interventions are disrupted only by migratory species. The right scientific study must prevent any project,” said RoshnhnhnhNy Ramesh, secretary Marc.
Forest officials also raised objections and stressed that no permission was required for the project. “This is a shrine for birds and the proposed activities will certainly affect them,” said Sasi, a division forest officer Kannur. He said the area is organized by large mangrove forests that maintain the life of birds. The forest department submitted a proposal for 450 GBP to obtain 450 hectares of privately owned mangroves, with 336 landowners already expressed their willingness to pass their country. The aim of the project until the government’s approval is to announce the reserve forest mangroves to provide long -term protection of the bird population.
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Published – August 24, 2025 17:54
