Sri Vijaya Puram | February 22, 2026
The Department of Tourism, A&N Administration, in collaboration with the Department of Environment & Forests and the Gram Panchayat, Manarghat, organised a ‘Mangrove Creek Tourism’ programme at Wright Myo on Saturday under the tagline #RootsofLife, highlighting the ecological and tourism potential of the Islands’ mangrove ecosystems.
The programme offered participants an immersive, guided tour through the mangrove creeks, providing firsthand insight into their ecological importance, biodiversity richness and conservation value. Experts explained the crucial role mangroves play as natural bio-shields, protecting coastlines from erosion, storm surges and rising sea levels. They also elaborated on how mangroves serve as breeding and nursery grounds for a wide range of marine species, sustaining the coastal ecosystem.
The event also served as a platform to promote sustainable eco-tourism practices that ensure environmental protection while enhancing visitor engagement. A large number of nature enthusiasts, tourism stakeholders, PRI members and local residents participated in the programme.
Tourism stakeholders present on the occasion noted the growing demand for nature-based and experiential tourism among visitors to the Islands. They observed that modern travellers increasingly seek eco-sensitive destinations that offer authentic interactions with local ecosystems and communities, making mangrove creek tourism a promising niche segment.
Officials highlighted that such initiatives can significantly strengthen the Islands’ eco-tourism portfolio. Proposed activities include guided creek trails, kayaking routes, birdwatching circuits, interpretation centres and community-led eco-guiding services. These efforts aim to diversify tourism offerings and distribute tourist flow beyond conventional beach destinations, thereby reducing environmental pressure on popular sites.
The programme also focused on enhancing livelihood opportunities for local communities. Participants from nearby villages were sensitised about self-employment prospects in eco-guiding, boating services, homestays, handicrafts, local cuisine ventures and other nature-based tourism activities. Emphasis was laid on positioning local communities as key stakeholders in conservation-driven tourism, ensuring that economic benefits reach the grassroots level.
To facilitate participation, the Tourism Department arranged dedicated bus services to the venue. The initiative reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism models that conserve fragile ecosystems while creating livelihood opportunities, positioning the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a leading destination for eco-friendly and nature-centric tourism experiences.
