Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 08 October 2024
As part of the 70th Wildlife Week celebrations, the Department of Environment and Forests, A&N Administration, has launched a new Nature Trail at Jolly Buoy Island within the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Wandoor. The trail, spanning 1.7 km, is aimed at promoting eco-tourism activities in the region.
The Nature Trail was officially inaugurated on October 5, 2024, by Mr. Sanjay Kumar Sinha, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (ANI) and Chief Wildlife Warden, in the presence of senior officers and staff from the Department of Environment and Forests.
During the event, the newly developed trail was inspected by the chief guest and other officials, who commended the department’s efforts in enhancing visitor experiences. The trail features informative signage, benches, and eco-huts, providing amenities to tourists while encouraging eco-conscious tourism. The signage offers detailed information about the local flora and fauna, the role they play in maintaining the ecosystem, and their importance to the environment. These informative boards are designed to educate both nature enthusiasts and casual visitors, promoting awareness about the region’s biodiversity.
In addition to the trail inauguration, a quiz competition was held at the Nature Park and Interpretation Centre, Haddo, for students from various colleges, including JNRM, Andaman Law College, Puducherry University, ANIMS, and TGCE. This event, organized as part of the week-long celebrations, witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across the islands.
In a related event, ‘Prakriti Shantiniketan – Nature Classroom,’ a unique open-air learning space, was inaugurated by Mr. Ravi Horo, IFS, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (A&V), on the same day. The classroom aims to engage students in nature-based learning, with activities and competitions organised to enrich their understanding of wildlife conservation. Prizes were distributed to students who excelled in these events.
Wildlife Week 2024, observed from October 2 to 8, celebrates the rich biodiversity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with the aim of fostering a deeper connection between the islands’ inhabitants and their natural surroundings.