Kanniyakumari district administration moves for Ramsar status for salt pans in Puthalam, Andivilai and Swamithoppu

The Kanniyakumari district administration is taking steps to have the salt pans at Puthalam, Andivilai and Swamithoppu declared as Ramsar site, citing their ecological importance and their role as a habitat for several migratory bird species.

The major development comes against the backdrop of a variety of migratory birds arriving at the brackish water salt pans in the three areas, particularly during winter. Due to their strategic location, the salt pans serve as an important transit point for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway.

In recent years, the salt pans have emerged as an important habitat for migratory birds and a popular destination for birdwatchers. Birds travelling from the northern hemisphere towards countries in the southern hemisphere, including Sri Lanka and Australia, use the wetlands as a transit and feeding ground before continuing their journey.