Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 21: The Department of Tourism, A&N Administration, in collaboration with the Department of Environment & Forests and Gram Panchayat, Manarghat, organized a ‘Mangrove Creek Tourism’ programme today at Wright Myo under the evocative tagline #RootsofLife.
The event offered participants a guided and immersive experience through the mangrove ecosystem, enabling them to gain firsthand knowledge about the ecological significance, biodiversity richness, and conservation value of mangroves. Experts explained how mangroves act as natural bio-shields against coastal erosion, storm surges, and rising sea levels, while also serving as breeding and nursery grounds for numerous marine species. The programme also functioned as a platform to promote sustainable eco-tourism practices that balance visitor engagement with environmental protection.
A good gathering of people, including nature enthusiasts, tourism stakeholders, PRI members, and local residents, actively participated in the event. Tourism stakeholders present at the venue highlighted the growing demand for nature-based and experiential tourism among visitors to these Islands. They emphasized that tourists today prefer eco-sensitive destinations offering authentic interactions with local ecosystems and communities, making mangrove creek tourism a promising niche segment.
The initiative also focused on expanding tourism prospects in the region. Officials elaborated that mangrove creek tourism can significantly enhance the Islands’ eco-tourism portfolio by introducing guided creek trails, kayaking routes, birdwatching circuits, interpretation centres, and community-led eco-guiding services. Such initiatives not only diversify tourism products but also help in dispersing tourist flow beyond conventional beach destinations, thereby reducing environmental pressure on popular sites.
Efforts were made to encourage local participation, particularly from nearby villages. Participants were sensitized about self-employment opportunities in eco-guiding, boating services, homestays, handicrafts, local cuisine ventures, and other nature-based tourism activities. The programme underscored the role of local communities as key stakeholders in conservation-driven tourism, ensuring that economic benefits directly reach grassroots levels.
The Tourism Department also arranged dedicated bus services to the venue to provide hassle-free conveyance for participants. The event reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to developing responsible and sustainable tourism models that conserve fragile ecosystems while unlocking livelihood opportunities for local communities, positioning the Islands as a leading destination for eco-friendly and nature-centric tourism experiences.