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Sarovaram, the multi-crore eco-friendly bio-park in Kozhikode is a fully government owned project meant for conservation of the wetlands through eco-friendly tourism interventions by sustainable methods. It also aimed at boosting tourism development in the Malabar region.
The project site, Kottoli Urban Wetlands, is located in the heart of the city by the side of the NH Bypass between Eranjipalam and Baby Memorial Hospital Junction. This is one of the 27 wetlands of natural importance identified by the Government of India for conservation under National Wetland conservation programme.
The wetlands are rich with 7 mangrove spices, 29 mangrove associates and fauna ranging from protozoa to Otter. It is also a congenial habitat for 20 types of water birds, 2 bird associated with water, 3 birds associated with waterlogged reeds and 9 land birds. The 11 km long canal connects Korappuzha and Kallai rivers and brings in periodic influx of saline water which makes the habitat ideal for mangrove, fisheries and other biota.
The project area, nearly 200 acres in Kottuli in Kozhikode city and in Vengeri and Kasaba villages, is rich in bio-diversity. The bio-park project, being implemented in various phases, is envisaged at a total cost of Rs 17.5 crore.
The project area for intervention has been considered into six zones such as Green Belt, Canolly Canal, Active Recreation Zone, Kalipoika, Bird Sanctuary Area and Mangrove Bio Reserve.
The major components of the project are canal walkway, boating facilities, Otter Park, Butterfly Park, bird sanctuary, aquarium, coracles, floating rafts, board-walk, park/ musical fountain, open air theatre, Interpretation centre etc.
The first phase of the project that includes a canal walkway, open air theatre, boating facilities etc. were completed and opened for public on 7 Dec 2008 by Hon’ble Chief Minister Sri V.S.Achudanandan in a function presided by Sri Kodiyeri Balakrishnan Minister for Home & Tourism. Sri Elamaram Kareem Minister for Industries, Sri Binoy Viswam Minister for Forest & Wildlife etc. were present.
Uniqueness of the project
- Conservation project for the only wetland of national importance within the limits of the city.
- Combining eco-system conservation with tourism initiatives through education, awareness building, recreation and leisure activities.
- Establishment of Butterfly Park, Otter Park etc.
- Enhancing environmental services like ground water replenishment, flood control etc.
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