SAROVARAM BIOPARK KOZHIKODE

AIM
Sarovaram, the multi-crore ecofriendly 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.

POTENTIALS

The presence of a 240 acre wetland within the city provides a unique oppurtnity for a bio-diversity park and centre and community learning centres which will also help to conserve and protect these highly valuable natural assets. Long coastallines are also an unrealized potential which can be further developed throughcareful planning. Calicut green spaces Realizing these potentials in urban design plans can have wideimpact in the ecology and economy of the area.

Exploring the high potential of Calicut as a Green/sustainable city Bringing employment to the people Restoring the natural habitat the urban area Protecting the bio-diversity Enhancing the natural processes

LOCATION

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 IMPORTANCE OF WETLAND ECOSYSTEM ARE

It improves water quality due to natural processes It is home for numerous flora and fauna

It is the drainage basin of the city

It maintains citys ecological balance It helps in species preservation and enhancing bio diversity It provides environmental learning opportunities It is very valuable as sources and sinks,

It transformers of a multitude of chemical, biological and genetic materialsand

It plays an important role in controlling pollution, flood and rechargingground water aquifers

IMPLEMENTATION

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, boardwalk, 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

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

THREATS

Over emphasis on aesthetics

Over emphasis on tourism and secondary income

Negligence of local community and community participation Lack of common interest

REFERENCES

http://www.trkl.in/gop_sarovaram.php- 25/06/2013 http://tourism.gov.in/writereaddata/CMSPagePicture/file /marketresearch/Tentavely%20Identified%20circuit%20for% 20various%20states/new/Kerala.pdf http://www.scribd.com/doc/23236937/sustainable-urbandesign