In a move to open that could further lead to new avenues for tourism in Goa, the beach state is set to have India’s first sand dune park.
The World Bank accepted the proposal of the Biodiversity Board of the state and has sanctioned a sum of Rs 3 crore for the project.
Sand dunes are geological deposits formed by the action of wind.
These geomorphic features act as nature’s first line of defence from the forces of the ocean.
The coastal ecosystem in Goa, which has been long-neglected, is now in for a substantial revamp.
Approximately three crores has been sanctioned to the state by World Bank after the body decided to approve a proposal drafted by the Goa state biodiversity board.
Under this programme, Goa would soon be the home to India’s first sand dune park and interpretation centres, along with few stretches.
The National Green Tribunal directed Public welfare departmen of Goa and other concerned authorities to make immediate remedial measures for restoration and regeneration of the sand dune ecosystem.
The thematic and interpretation centres would educate tourists on importance of preserving the sand dune ecosystem.
There would also be constructions of bridges, which would be constructed with eco-friendly materials, will also reduce chances of the sand dune vegetation.
The plan includes the setting up of nurseries of sand dune vegetation, which would allow its replantation on beach stretches, where vegetation has completely eroded.
Morjim and Galibaga beaches among the ones, who would be getting this sand dune feature.
Former NIO scientist and ex-member of GSBB Antonio Mascaren appointed as principal investigator for the project, with Sarmokadam acting as the co-investigator.
Sand dunes are known to be the first line of defence from natural calamities and disasters like tsunami, storms or strong winds, which hit the coast.
This initiative would be backed by regular monitoring of flora and fauna on the sand dunes.
Consultations in between Morjim biodiversity management committee and the stakeholders of this project have already commenced.
