Kozhikode’s vital Kottooli wetlands are facing catastrophic destruction, a recent and extensive study by a dedicated group of environmental experts has confirmed. During a comprehensive, day-long tour, a diverse team comprising scientists, seasoned environmentalists, retired officials from the Department of Forests, and eager students from Malabar Christian College, Holy Cross College, IHRD College of Applied Sciences, and Providence Women’s College meticulously assessed the alarming state of this crucial ecosystem.
Dr. Asha Prabhakar, a renowned pediatrician and a key member of the investigative team, underscored the serious public health risks emanating from the damage. She warned that the rampant accumulation of plastic and various other debris, either directly dumped or washed into the wetlands, renders the area highly susceptible to the outbreak of water-borne diseases. The investigation brought to light a shocking reality: in addition to the three structures officially part of the Sarovaram Biopark, there are an astounding 37 unauthorized private buildings and two government structures illegally occupying the precious wetland area.
Further exacerbating the crisis is a makeshift dumping ground found within the wetlands, overflowing with discarded electronic equipment and vehicle parts. This poses an grave environmental threat as dangerous chemicals, solid waste, and petroleum by-products are leaching directly into the fragile wetland waters. Compounding these issues, the installation of high-mast lights in the vicinity has reportedly led to a significant decline in the arrival of various bird species, including essential migratory visitors, severely disrupting the natural biodiversity of the region.
The expert team meticulously documented several spots where the wetlands have been severely encroached upon, filled indiscriminately with construction waste and other debris. Another critical observation was the unchecked proliferation of invasive plant species, which are rapidly choking out native flora and further destabilizing the already delicate ecological balance of the Kottooli wetlands.
The impactful study tour, organized through the collaborative efforts of the Sarovaram Prakrithi Samrakshana Samithi and the Green Movement, culminated in a pivotal meeting. The session was presided over by Samithi President Ajay Lal and formally inaugurated by the respected social activist A. Vasu, underscoring the urgency of the situation.