2024-07-27

In a significant step towards conserving freshwater habitats and protecting threatened species, a series of informative boards has been installed across key locations in the Munnar region. A total of 20 boards were placed, representing a crucial effort to promote environmental stewardship and safeguard endangered species.

These information boards feature images of threatened fauna such as odonates like Indosticta deccanensis, Protosticta sanguinostigma, and Chlorogomphus xanthoptera, as well as endangered fish species like Garra hughi and Indoreonectes keralensis. They also emphasize the urgent need to prevent littering and wastewater dumping, which threaten the region’s biodiversity.

Strategically positioned along roadsides for maximum visibility, the boards are located on the Neriyamangalam-Adimaly route and Kallar Mankulam route, covering areas such as Aanakkulam, Valara, and Cheeyappara Waterfalls; Anachal, Sengulam, and the Gap Road route, with major installations at the Botanical Garden, Signal Point, and Periyakanal; and the Munnar-Marayoor route, including notable locations like Nallathanni and Lakkam Waterfalls. It is estimated that these boards will reach an average of 2,000-5,000 people daily.

These information boards are vital in conservation efforts, serving as educational tools to raise awareness about the protection of endangered flora and fauna. They clearly outline the threats posed by human activities and aim to foster a sense of environmental responsibility among locals and visitors.

By effectively communicating these messages, the boards help bridge the gap between conservation efforts and public engagement. They not only provide information about specific threatened species but also advocate for broader environmental conservation practices, contributing to the long-term preservation of Munnar’s unique ecological heritage.

This commendable effort to install 20 boards within three days significantly enhances conservation awareness and encourages responsible behavior, furthering the protection of one of Kerala’s most treasured natural landscapes. The project was spearheaded by a dedicated team including Dr. Punnen Kurian, Dr. Shaju Thomas, Mr. Sarath Babu, Mr. Nihal Hussain TP, Mr. Praful V. Panicker, and Mr. Bechu Punnen Abraham from TIES.