The Eastern Ghats, a mountain range that extends through Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, and touches parts of Karnataka and Telangana, harbors a rich and diverse ecosystem. Although it does not have the same renown as the Western Ghats, this range is home to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna, making it a crucial area for conservation and study. Central to efforts to raise awareness and deepen understanding of this unique landscape is the Eastern Ghats Biodiversity Centre in Visakhapatnam.
Situated within the Kambalakonda Reserve Forests, the centre covers 30 acres and has been transformed from a small nursery into an ecological education and preservation hub by the Visakhapatnam Forest Department. The project was conceived by Vizag DFO Anant Shankar, Sub DFO Dharmar Akshith, and FRO Ram Naresh. The centre includes several parks, such as Aushadhavanam, Karthik Vanam, and Rashi Vanam, each providing unique insights into the region's biodiversity. It is primarily managed by Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary project officer Yagnapathy Adari and marine biologist Sri Chakra Pranav.
A notable feature of the centre is the Nature Information Centre, described as a ‘walking library’. With detailed maps, educational panels, and creative art displays, the centre provides a thorough exploration of the region's natural wonders. Visitors can learn about various aspects of the Eastern Ghats, including wetlands, marine life, and butterfly species, with information available in both English and Telugu.
The ground floor of the Nature Information Centre highlights four endangered species of the Eastern Ghats: the Indian pangolin, Mysore slender loris, Jerdon's courser, and Jeypore ground gecko. Another section features a detailed replica of a mangrove ecosystem, emphasizing the crucial role of mangroves in protecting the Andhra Pradesh coast from storms and cyclones.
Additionally, the centre has an exhibit dedicated to the forests of the Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary. For those intrigued by subterranean ecosystems, there is a small cave section that provides an experience with replicas of cave formations, showcasing the survival strategies of cave-dwelling species in light-deprived environments.
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