2024-12-13

With the rising pollution caused by plastic waste, primarily from tourist activities in Munnar, there was an urgent need to educate the public about its consequences. Addressing this concern, TIES, as part of the IUCN project “Protection of Freshwater Ecosystems for the Conservation of Threatened Species in Munnar, Western Ghats, India,” organized a Poster Exhibition to emphasize the importance of conserving freshwater resources. The event was held at the Government Botanical Garden, Munnar, drawing significant attention from locals and visitors alike.

The exhibition showcased detailed findings from TIES’ comprehensive study of freshwater ecosystems, biodiversity, and protected areas in Munnar. Key topics included wildlife, challenges in freshwater habitats, pollution, waste management, overexploitation, human-wildlife conflicts, and climate change. A photo gallery displayed odonate and fish species documented during the one-year study, with special focus on threatened species unique to the region, such as Garra hughi, Indoreonectes kerelensis, Protosticta sanguinostigma, Indosticta deccanensis, and Chlorogomphus xanthoptera. These exhibits provided visitors with valuable insights into Munnar’s ecological richness and vulnerabilities.

The exhibition was meticulously organized by Mr. Nihal Hussain T.P., Mr. Praful V. Panicker, and Mr. Bechu Punnen Abraham, representing the TIES-IUCN Project. They guided visitors through the displays, explaining each poster and highlighting critical biodiversity and wildlife challenges in Munnar. Their efforts ensured attendees left with a deeper understanding of conservation’s importance and the urgent need for action.

The event received notable attention, including a visit by Smt. V. Vigneshwari IAS, District Collector of Idukki, and her team. She praised the initiative and commended the dedication of the organizers, encouraging them to share their findings with the district administration to support Munnar’s transformation into a clean city. Mr. Biju, in charge of the Government Botanical Garden, also attended and extended his full support for the exhibition.

The exhibition attracted numerous visitors, including domestic and international tourists, who expressed appreciation for its informative content. Many commended the initiative for shedding light on Munnar’s unique biodiversity and ecological challenges. Positive feedback underscored the event’s effectiveness in raising awareness and promoting conservation efforts.

This project was conducted with the support of Fondation Segré through the IUCN Save Our Species program.