Endangered Species

Dugongs and Seagrass Ecosystems

The Union Environment Ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has asked the Tamil Nadu government to revise the design of the proposed International Dugong Conservation Centre at Manora in Thanjavur district. Although the project aims to support dugong research, rescue, rehabilitation, and awareness, the committee raised concerns because most of the proposed construction falls within ecologically sensitive Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) areas, including a No Development Zone and regions with mangroves and seagrass meadows.

The EAC objected to the heavy use of conventional concrete structures in such a fragile coastal environment and recommended adopting low-impact, eco-friendly construction methods. It also suggested relocating as many facilities as possible outside the restricted zones and studying best practices from similar conservation centres. The project will be reconsidered only after a revised, environmentally sensitive plan is submitted.

WESTERN GHATS UNDER THREAT: ICUN'S RED FLAG ALERT EXPLAINED

The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biodiversity hotspot in India, has been flagged by the IUCN as a site of “significant concern” due to threats from climate change, tourism, hydropower projects, and invasive species. Home to over 325 globally threatened species, the Ghats face habitat loss, wildlife conflicts, and ecosystem disruptions. Urgent conservation measures, community involvement, and sustainable development are needed to protect this vital natural heritage.

INDIA’S RED LIST ROADMAP: LATEST BIODIVERSITY UPDATE

India launched the National Red List Roadmap and Vision 2025–2030 to assess 11,000 species by 2030 under IUCN norms. Led by ZSI and BSI, it builds a digital platform and Red Data Books to guide evidence-based biodiversity conservation.