Pathiramanal EIA report

Report on EIA study on Pathiramanal Island

Preamble

(1) The Government of Kerala (Ref: G.O (MS) No. 332/2000/GAD dt. 13.04.2000)
had given Pathiramanal island in the Alappuzha District to the Oberoi Kerala
Hotels on a long-term lease to set up a Tourism Project of international
standards.
(2) Writ Petitions against this Government orders were dismissed by the High
Court by its Common Judgement dated 5.3.2003.
(3) Two petitions were filed at the Supreme Court against the orders of the High
court praying to set aside the above judgement.
(4) The Hon’ble Supreme Court in its Common Order dated 10.1.2006 has
directed the State Government to take a fresh decision in the matter, in the
light of the issues being raised by the petitioners.
(5) The Honourable Supreme Court further observed that the Government of
Kerala should hear both the parties (petitioners and the respondents) after
getting a fresh representation from the Petitioners for a detailed discussion.
(6) Accordingly, the Government called both the parties, namely the Kottayam
Nature Society (Petitioner) and M/s Oberoi Kerala Hotels and Resorts Limited
and M/s East India Hotels Limited (Respondents) on 27.3.2006.
(7) After studying in detail the arguments put forth by both the parties, the
Government came to the conclusion that the main issue to be resolved is
whether the Pathiramanal is an environmentally fragile area where the
balance of nature will be upset if a resort as proposed by the Responded
comes up.
(8) The Government further felt that since a clear conclusion could not be drawn
up from the studies of both the SACON and CESS, it is necessary to
commission a full fledged EIA by a professional body before any eco-friendly
hospitality infrastructure is permitted in the area by any agency
(9) Considering all these, the Government ordered on 6. 4. 2006 that the status
quo of the Pathiramanal island will be maintained until a decision is taken by
the Government on the utilisation of this land based on the EIA study to be
conducted by a reputed firm.
(10) In the meanwhile, the Oberoi Kerala Hotels and Resorts Limited intimated the
Government of Kerala on 13.12.2006 that its Board of Directors have decided
that due to the serious environmental issues involved and on account of the
lack of infrastructure, the development of the project would not be possible
and, as such the project allotted to the Company be cancelled.
(11) Following this, on 2.6.2007 the Government ordered cancellation of the
allotment of Pathiramanal to the Oberoi Group.

(12) Subsequently, the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala came up
with a proposal to establish a bio-Park in Pathiramanal.
(13) In the above circumstances, the Government of Kerala has requested the
Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) to conduct an Environment Impact
Assessment (EIA) of the proposed bio-park in the Pathiramanal Island and
submit a report to the Government to take further action in the matter.

(14) Accordingly the KSBB constituted an expert committee with in following
members:

1. Dr. U.K Gopalan (Chairman) Expert , Mangrove ecosystem
Scientist (Rtd.) National Institute of
Oceanography, Cochin
2. Dr. A. Bijukumar Expert , freshwater/Marine
Department of Aquatic Biology biodiversity
University of Kerala,
Thiruvananthapuram
3. Prof. E. Kunhikrishnan Expert , Animal Biodiversity
Professor of Zoology
University College,
Thiruvananthapuram
4. Dr. V.S. Pradeep Expert , Plant taxonomy /
Professor of Botany studied the flora of
SVRNSS College, Vazhoor Pathiramanal island
Kottayam

In addition, the Chairman, KSBB, Dr. V.S. Vijayan, and Dr. R.V. Varma, Member
Secretary, KSBB also accompanied the team.

Methodology

(15). The team has made exhaustive analysis of the existing two major reports on
the Pathiramanal Island, brought by the SACON and CESS and other relevant
literature before undertaking the field studies.
(16). a. The expert team visited the Pathiramanal Island and also the adjoining
Vembanad lake area on boat. The team members covered the entire island on
foot mostly using the existing paths and made an on the spot evaluation of
flora/fauna, the environment, and the ecological settings of the island and its
peripheral areas (Fig. 1) .
b. The team made an objective analysis of the ecosystem status of the island
and the possible impacts that the new interventions would cause to the
already fragile ecosystem

c. The team members also scrutinised each component of the proposed Bio-
Park and its impacts on the system
d. The team also made determined interactions with the local body
representatives (Muhamma Panchayat), local NGOs, environmentalists and
people residing in the Panchayat. The expert committee had a half day
discussion with the Muhamma Panchayat President and members (Fig. 2). The
various activities outlined in the proposal made by tourism department were
discussed point by point with the Panchayat Committee and also with
Vembanad based NGO’s and other local residents.

Fig 1 – The Expert team making observations

Fig 2 – Expert Committee meeting with
President and Members of the Panchayat

Pathiramanal Island

(17) Pathiramanal is a small island in the Vembanad Lake (Fig. 3). Although in the
records the island has an area of 110 ha, as of now the area covers only 19.6 ha. This
island (76023’E, 90 37’N and 76024’ E, 90 38’ N) falls in the Muhamma Panchayat of the

Alappuzha district. The island has a maximum length of 550m from SW to NE and
about 450m width from SE to NW, with a perimeter of 1800m (Azeez et el. 2004). The
island is about 1.5 km from Muhamma boat jetty and around 13 km from Alappuzha

Fig 3 - A view of the Pathiramanal Island

(18). The climate of the area is warm, humid, with fairly uniform temperature
throughout the year ranging form 200c to 350c. The rainfall varies between 4,000 and
5,000 mm with an average annual rainfall of around 3,000 mm.

The salient features of the Flora and fauna of Pathiramanal Island

(19). Earlier reports of Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON)
and Centre for Earth Science Studies (CESS) on Pathiramanal Island deal in detail the
flora and fauna of the area along with other environmental issues.

(20) One hundred and seventy six species of plants are recorded from the
Pathiramanal Island, of which 166 species are flowering (Angiosperms) and the
rest are ferns (Pteridophytes).
(21) Among the plants Aponogeton apendiculates is an aquatic angiosperm, included
in the Red Data Book, which is found in shore regions of the island.
(22) Two other important rare species of plants found in this island are Mucuna
giganttea, a large climber found in isolated localities of Kerala and, Flagellaria
indica, found rarely in some localities of west and east costs of India.
(23) According to the earlier reports, this island is home to five species of mangroves,
namely Bruguiera gymnorhiza, Excoecaria agallocha, Sonneratia caseolaris,
Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata and Ceriops sp.
(24) Only two species, Bruguiera gymnorhiza and Excoecaria agallocha, were found
growing naturally in the island during the present study. All other species could
not be located and their absence may be due to the low level of salinity in the
estuarine water and human intervention within the island.

(25) Sonneratia caseolaris seems to occur in the middle part of the marshy area which
could not be verified due to inaccessibility, during the filed trip. In the periphery of
the island B. gymnorhiza has been planted by the Kerala Forest Department (Fig.
4).

Fig 4 - Newly Planted B. Gymnorhiza Mangrove Species
in the periphery planted up by the Forest Department

(26) Twenty four species of dragonflies and damselflies, 23 species of spiders, 34
species of butterflies, 88 species of birds, 58 species of fishes and 7 species of
reptiles are recorded from the Pathiramanal Island.
(27) Agrocnemis keralensis, an endemic damselfly species, first described from
Karamana in Thiruvananthapuram, is also found in the island.
(28) A spider Thomisus andamanensis, reported only from the Andaman & Nicobar
Islands, is also recorded from this island.
(29) Oriental Darter is a near-threatened species of bird, found to breed here.
(30) Two globally threatened species, namely Indian Rock Python and Smooth-coated
Otter frequent in this island.
(31) It is also a type locality for one subspecies of fish of the family Rasborinae
Horadandia attukorali brittani. This fish species is limited to this area and falls
under IUCN’s endangered category.

(32) A list of plants identified from the Pathiramanal Island by one of the members of
the Expert Committee, Dr.S.V.Pradeep is provided in appendix 1. Selected pictures
of the flora of the island are given as Plates 1 and 2.

Pathiramanal and the Vembanadu lake ecosystem

(33) The Pathiramanal island is one of the vital parts of the large Vembanadu estuary
(locally known as Kayal). The two key factors for the survival of this dynamic but
fragile ecosystem are the tidal effect and the quantum and quality of inflow from the
rivers, namely Meenachil, Manimala, Pamba, Achancoil and Muvattupuzha. Both these
vital factors are severely hampered; the tidal effect is practically nil since the
construction of the Thannirmukkam bund, some three decades back and, the reduced
river flow because of the various anthropogenic activities in the hills and along the
course of the rivers. Adding to these are the contamination by pesticides, industrial
effluents, sewages, wastes from municipal and tourism; reclamation, dredging, shell
mining, excessive boating and coir processing. Reduction in depth was reported to be
from 8-9m to 3-3.5m (Gopalan 1983), it is stated that two-thirds of the total area of
Vembanad Lake has been reclaimed or converted into fields for agriculture or fishery
purposes.

(34) Since the various factors that determine the Vembanad estuarine ecosystem
functioning as explained above are so variable that the system cannot get stabilised
and hence remains as fragile system. Any kind of perturbation, even if it is minor,
would make certain amount of impact in the system as resilience of the system is too
poor. Therefore, the entire Vembanad estuarine ecosystem remains as a typical fragile
ecosystem.

(35) Pathiramanal island, although is an ecosystem by itself, is an essential component
of the Vembanad Estuarine ecosystem. Their functions are mutually complementary;
perturbance in either of this would affect the other adversely. Pathiramanal Island
itself is a fragile ecosystem, mainly because of the smallness of the area and its
dependence on the surroundings. The mangroves surrounding the island, the wetlands
and narrow creeks within the island are essential components of this small system and
present totally different microhabitats. The anaerobic condition present in the creeks
provide habitat for form specialised to live in that particular habitat. Any attempts to
flush these creeks would cause disappearance of a large number of species. Plant
species composition of the island clearly indicates that it is in a transitional phase and
not a stable system. Therefore any interventions in the island should be carefully
examined and made sure that the system will not be irreparably damaged. It is in this
context that the proposed Bio-Park in the island should be analysed.

Pathiramanal Bio-park proposal by the Tourism Department

The Kerala Tourism Department envisages converting Pathiramanal as an
ecotourism centre by developing a bio-park at Pathiramanal with quality
infrastructure at an estimated cost of Rs. 7.75 crores. The major components
envisaged in the project proposal are the following. Detailed proposal is in
appendix II.

1. Improvement to the road from Kaipuram junction to Entrance area in the
mainland.
The length of the road is 1.60 km and proposes to widen the existing road and
improve at a cost of Rs.16 lakhs.
2. Providing Signages along the National Highway
Reflective signboards and other suitable sign boards will be put up at appropriate
junctions on the way to Pathiramanal at a cost of Rs.4.5 lakhs.
3. Gate way arch at Kaipuram Junction
The gate way arch together with the gate structure at the main entrance is
proposed at a total cost of Rs.7 lakhs
4. Development of entrance area and Parking
This work is proposed at a total cost of Rs.27.6 lakhs.
5. Entrance block for reception, Library and Store, Video Centre cum Interpretation
Centre, Souvenir shop –cum- communication centre, restaurant, foyer, locker
room, toilet and rest Rooms. The whole work is contemplated at a total cost of
Rs.109.25 lakhs.
6. Aquarium and Museum Block
In the aquarium, it is proposed to showcase all types of fishes and other creatures
living in water, with particular reference to local species. The museum will be
accommodated in the first floor of the aquarium block. The total estimated cost is
Rs.258.00 lakhs.
7. Boat terminal and Jetty
Construction of a typical Kerala style Boat terminal is proposed at a total cost of
Rs.25.00 lakhs
8. Landscaping the entrance
The entrance area will have concrete inter locking cobble stone paved parking
for buses and cars. The area of parking area proposed is 3320 M2 and the cost
is Rs. 27.60 Lakhs

9. Entrance block for reception, Library and Store, video centre cum interpretation
centre, souvenir shop cum communication centre, restaurant, foyer, locker room
and toilet and rest rooms.

The total area including corridors will be 1117 Square mtrs. Estimated cost:
Rs. 109.25 Lakhs.

10. Aquarium and Museum Block

An aquarium to show case different types of fish and other aquatic fauna; a
museum to present various themes such as Natural History, Geological
history, Culture and Art forms of Kuttanad; Butterfly information and
Agriculture practices and implements of Kuttanad to be housed in a building
of 1682 Sq mt. Estimated cost: Rs. 258.00 Lakhs.
11. Boat Terminal and Jetty

A typical Kerala boat terminal in a building of 80 M2 area near the Kayal bank with
jetty and walk way: Estimated cost: Rs. 25.00 Lakhs
12. Landscaping the entrance area

The balance area after leaving the paved parking will be landscaped at a cost of Rs.
4.00 Lakhs..
Improvements in the Pathiramanal Island

13. Floating walkway

A floating walkway of 2,200m, made up of woods, around the Island is envisaged
for enjoying the nature at close quarters and also for facilitating bird watching using
binoculars. The total area of the platform will be 1100 M²; estimated cost: Rs.
118.00 lakhs.
14. Boat jetty

The boat jetty will be constructed as an extension of the floating walk way
and will be made with the same treated wood deck over poly ethylene
floating units. This work has also to be arranged as part of floating walk way
as a turn key job. The cost for the jetty is also included in the costing for
floating walk way .

15. Entrance to Pathiramanal

The Boat jetty will be connected to the floating walkway and then to the land
using floating platforms similar to that for walk way. The entrance portion
will have rough granite slab paving and two granite pillar blocks to mark the
gate way to the Island. Estimated cost Rs.2.50 Lakhs.
16. Main Central walk way

There is already a path way right across the island almost through the centre
from the jetty to the other side of the island, about 510m. This pathway will
be widened to 3 m to allow two way pedestrian traffic and paved with rough
granite slabs with local grass grown on the joints. Estimated cost: Rs. 8.00
Lakhs

17. Periferal walk way

There is a foot path (trail) along the periphery of the island covering almost 75%
length. This will be completed when the length of the pathway will be around 2005 m
and the width 2 m. A small portion of it is concreted and the remaining portion will
be paved with rough granite slabs with local grass grown in the joints. Bird watching
sites, rain shelters, toilets etc. and, the floating walk way in the kayal at 4 places will
have connection from this path way. Estimated cost: Rs. 13.00 Lakhs.

18. Development of grove with different plant species seen in Kuttanad and
Karapuram area

The abandoned paddy fields on either side of the central walk way, about there is an
area of 2.30 ha (5.68 acres) will be developed into groves by planting plants common
in Kuttanad and Karapuram areas. Plants will have name boards; foot paths and
sinages will be provided for helping the tourists and students. The soils that will be
scooped out for widening of the canals and ponds will be used for raising the land
level of the paddy fields to the desired level for the garden. Estimated cost: Rs. 17.00
Lakhs.
19. Development of Fresh water pond

The fresh water pond, around 2100 M2 , near the entrance will be de-silted, deepened,
and provided with “ashlars” paving on the tank slopes. Steps will be constructed to go
down to the water at various places and, the area around the pond will be landscaped
and ashlar stone seating will be provided. Fresh water fishes and water lilies will be
grown. Estimated Cost: Rs. 10.00 Lakhs.

20. Development of the major canals in the island
The Canal, roughly about 780 m, from Vembanad kayal passing across the island
with a winding course and the other one which takes off from the main canal and
runs east wards to join the kayal would be desilted and the slopes and banks will be
lined with rough granite blocks. Jetty like platforms will be constructed along the river
course to use the pedal boats that will be introduced. Estimated cost: Rs. 17.00
Lakhs.

21. Rejuvenation of Minor Canals and small ponds (5 Nos.)

The large number of minor canals, totally around 4850 m, that criss-cross the island
and the five small ponds located at various places will be de-silted wherever required
and the banks “corrected by doing minor formations” and Kaitha planted on the
banks. Estimated cost: Rs. 3.50 Lakhs

22. Landscaped resting area on the eastern end of central pathway

The open area at the eastern end of the central walkway will be landscaped with large
number of informal seats made in ashlars blocks. The statue of Sree Narayana Guru
will be retained. The toilet blocks will be located in the near by areas conveniently. The
floating restaurant will also be located near this. Estimated cost: Rs. 4.00 Lakhs.

23. Establishment of a butterfly garden at Pathiramanal for promoting
ecotourism and public awareness on biodiversity conservation.

A butterfly park near the fresh water pond will be established to promote public
awareness on nature conservation, and to facilitate bio diversity conservation. No new
species from out side will be introduced. A few plant species which give nectar
(Clerodendrum capitatum, Allamanda cathartica, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Cuphea miniata, Zinnia
haageana, Marigold, Clerodendrum capitatum, Lantana camara) will be introduced to sustain
various butterflies. Estimated cost: Rs. 17.25 Lakhs.

24. Providing rain shelters

Three eco-friendly rain shelters, 25 sq m each, made with stone, pillars, rough stone
parapets and rough ashlars tile paved floor with wooden frame roof covered with grass
thatching will be constructed near the peripheral walk way. Estimated cost: 3.60
Lakhs.
25. Providing toilet blocks
Toilet blocks with an area of 156.30 sq m will be provided on the eastern side close to
the food kiosk in the resting areas (open) provided near the statue. The building will be
eco friendly with stone walls and clad with split bamboos. Estimated cost: Rs. 14.00
Lakhs.
26. Providing Floating Restaurant

A Floating Restaurant with a small pantry will be provided with floating walkway
connection close to the open resting area near the statue. The eco-friendly restaurant
building, 156.30 sq m, will be constructed as an open restaurant where food will be
cooked and brought to the pantry for serving. The Estimated cost: Rs. 34.50 Lakhs.
27. Bird Watching Facility

A bird sanctuary is proposed at Pathiramanal Island strengthening and protecting the
mangroves. Three bird watching facilities on tree tops will be made. Wooden ladders
will be provided to reach these tree houses. Estimated cost: Rs. 3.75 Lakhs.
28. Integrated Management action plan for Mangroves

Afforestation of the island margins with suitable mangrove plants; and a mass
awareness campaign will be undertaken. Estimated cost: Rs. 2.00 Lakhs.

29. Development of fish sanctuary and Fish Park at Pathiramanal

A fish sanctuary and fish park in Pathiramanal aimed at conservation of bio diversity
will be established. Estimated cost: Rs. 26.00 Lakhs.

30. Security lights using solar lamps

A few lights will be installed in the open areas where sunlight is available using
independent solar panels. The cost for this component will be Rs. 5.00 Lakhs.

31. Waste Management

The Island will be declared as a no plastic zone. A constant vigil will be kept by the
guides and interpreters to see that no wastes are put in the Island. The waste from the
floating food stall will be converted as compost and used in the plant grove. The
sewage from the toilet block will be treated in a septic tank adopting anaerobic
process. The effluent will be diluted with water and used in irrigation in the plant
grove. (no estimate is given in the project)

32. Training of local people as guides and boats men
Selected local people will be given training to work as guides and boatmen.
Estimated cost. Rs. 2.00 Lakhs..

33. Publicity and Marketing

Separate website with complete details will be established and updated periodically.
Publicity through media on the bio-diversity of this Island and the conservation
programme undertaken to preserve them will be given. A short video film
(documentary) will be produced and exhibited at various places in India and during
tourism festivals outside India. Estimated cost: Rs. 10.00 lakhs.

Evaluation of the proposal for Bio-Park in Pathiramanal

1. Tourism department’s project for establishing a Bio-Park in Pathiramanal with a sole
objective of commercial tourism, certainly, is quite imaginative. But it does not appear to
have reflected upon the repercussions on the ecological settings and foundations of the
tiny island’s fragile ecosystem, which if the project goes through, as it is, would ultimately
affect the tourism prospects itself.

2. It may be noted that the only marketable commodity of the Pathiramanal island is its
natural scenic beauty and, the tourism potentials and prospects are dependent entirely
on this. Any attempt to “beautify” it and make it “more convenient” to tourists by human

interventions will only end up in converting the island as just one among the many
tourists’ spots in the world.

3. Therefore, leaving the Pathiramanal ecosystem without human interventions would
serve the long-term interest of the tourism as well as help the ecosystem process of the
island to continue which is very essential to maintain the Vembanad Esturaine ecosystem
itself. Moreover, it would serve as a laboratory for the scientific world to understand the
ecosystem process, ecological success and ultimately the evolutionary trend.

4. With the objectives of tourism promotion on a long-term basis and allowing the
natural ecosystem process to continue to better serve the tourism in future, and help
maintaining the Vembanad ecosystem itself which serves the basic needs of the local
communities and for scientific benefits, the current proposal for the bio-park in the
island may be modified in the following way.

5. It may be noted that before formulating the recommendations, the Expert Committee
had detailed discussions with representatives of local civil societies and local
communities and, above all with the local Panchayat. It is interesting to note that the
scientific opinion formed by the Committee and the views of the local community and
Panchayat were almost similar.

5.1. Boat jetty

The existing boat jetty at Muhamma situated on the west of the Island to be
modified strengthened and used (Fig. 5). The entire construction should be eco-
friendly.

Fig 5 – Discussion with the local NGO leader at the Boat Jetty.
Pathiramanal Island can be seen in the background

5.2. Entrance to the Island

The existing entrance may be used. The boats should not go so close to the island
as is being done now. There can be a small bridge connecting the entrance gate
and the boat landing area. Care should be taken to see that this does not cross
the area marked as “National Water way”.

4.3. Entrance Gate to Pathiramanal Island

4.3.1. The existing gate should be beautified and some extra facilities to be
provided along with the Gate as follows:
4.3.2. Ticket counter for entrance to the island
4.3.3. An eco friendly shelter to protect the visitors from rains
4.3.4. Toilet facility (eco friendly) for both men and women on a pay and use
basis
4.3.5. A pond in the nearby area to be cleaned up and put local fishes, water lily
etc., and also provide seating facilities for the public to relax.
4.3.6. A small shop (operational only during the day when visitors are permitted)
for selling tender coconuts, water and snacks may also be considered.

4.4. Trail (Walk path)

The existing walking path to be strengthened and modified. The width should not
exceed 1.5 meters. At some places the path is broken and in some other areas
bricks are not laid; these have to be done up. The path way from the Sree
Narayana Guru statue, going towards south only need to completed and
strengthened.

4.5. Peripheral trail path

The walking path has to be limited as given under 4.4. At the end of the existing
path there is a heronry which shall not be disturbed. Similarly in the northern part
also, no pathway should be laid, as this area is used by a large number of birds for
roosting and resting.

4.6. Floating walkway should be abandoned

The shallow region around the Island is an important bio-active area (Fig 6). The
area possesses a species of sedges (Vattippullu), which is a breeding habitat of
fishes and shell fishes. This ecologically delicate region has also an aquatic plant,

Aponogeton appendianlatus, which is included in the Red Data Book of Indian
plants. The area is also a roosting ground for many species of birds.

Fig 6 – Shallow shore region of the Pathiramanal Island

More importantly, it is an interactive space serving as an ecotone between the
island and the larger water body surrounding it. It shall not be disturbed at any
cost. The Committee suggests that at least half a kilometre radius of the island
shall be left untouched to protect this particular zone.

Economically also this area is important, as it is preferred by many species of
fishes for breeding, especially Karimeen. Dr. Padmakumar, an expert on fisheries,
from the Kerala Agricultural University Research Station at Kumarakom, asserts
that the peripheral of the island be protected as a fish breeding (Karimeen) area.
How it would help improve the livelihood of the people needs no explanation.

4.7. Sree Narayana Guru Mandiram Area

A grass lawn should be developed in the open area around the statue. Wooden
sating arrangements, and not with ashlar blocks, should be provided for resting in
the area. The dried well in the area should be revived. No Cafeteria etc., should
be constructed anywhere in the area.

4.8. Maintenance, de-silting and cleaning up of canals inside the island

All canals, the two major and the five minor, should be left without any major
interventions. These canals including their slopes and bunds form a particular
habitats and they play a vital role in the ecosystem. They have to be left
untouched. The appearance they give now is quite natural and people are coming
there to see the natural settings and not the “civilized” settings as proposed in the
project. Introduction of pedal boasts after de-silting and making up the bunds

would result in the total disaster to this particular habitat in the island.If
needed, manual de-silting could be done, but an expert team should assess the
need before taking up such action.

4.9. Establishment of a butterfly park

There is no need to establish a butterfly park inside the island as a large number
of them could be seen freely. Introduction of the plant species which are not in
the island, certainly, is not advisable. In case it is very particular to have a
butterfly park, it could be established in the mainland by growing suitable species
of plants. It could be tried near the Mohamma jetty in the mainland.

4.10. Bird Watching Facility
The proposal to declare Pathiramanal island as a bird sanctuary as given in the
bio-park project is acceptable. One bird watching facility (a wooden platform
with thatched roof) on tree top at the eastern end of the main trail or
somewhere in the middle of the trail path would be ideal. This would facilitate
the visitors to watch the roosting and nesting of birds. (Fig 7)
.

Fig 7 – showing the roosting and nesting site of birds

20. Development of Fresh water pond

The existing freshwater pond near the entrance may be strengthened by paving
laterite stones instead of ashlars at the bottom and, the slopes also to be
protected by laterite stone parapets. Minimum landscaping required in and
around the pond may be made. Fresh water fishes and water lilies as suggested
in the proposal may be grown.

21. Providing rain shelters

The proposal is for three eco-friendly rain shelters, 25 sq m each, made with
stone, pillars, rough stone parapets and rough ashlars tile paved floor with
wooden frame roof covered with grass thatching near the peripheral walk way.
There is no need to have such elaborative structures. The most, only one rain
shelter during the course of the trail may be provided. It should be completely
eco-friendly.

22. Providing toilet blocks
Eco-friendly toilet blocks on the eastern side near the statue will be convenient.
Estimate seem to be quite on the higher side Rs. 14.00 Lakhs.

26. Providing Floating Restaurant

A Floating Restaurant, 156.30 sq m in size, at a cost of Rs. 34.50/ lakhs, with
connections to the island by floating walkway, is proposed in the project. Food
is to be cooked in the mainland building and served in the restaurant. In the
first place, such a facility in such a small area is not required.This will certainly
pollute the entire area. A snack bar at the main gate would serve the purpose.
Moreover, such a facility would convert the isaland for picnics and it would
spoil the natural sttings of the area

27. Development of groves with different plant species seen in Kuttanad and
Karapuram area

The proposal is to plant all species seen in Kuttanad and Karapuram area in the
2.30 ha of abandoned paddy fields on either side of the central pathway. This
would again go against the natural ecological process that has been taking place
in the area. It would be advisable to leave the area free of introduction of any
species from outside. Let the natural course of ecological succession continue
without any hindrance.

28. Integrated management action plan for Mangroves

It would be ideal to leave it as it is now and, protect them from destruction. No
physical activities should be allowed within or in the vicinity of the mangroves.
All that is required is a quantitative and qualitative documentation of the
mangrove flora and fauna of the island and, periodical monitoring of the same.
No human intervention should be allowed at any cost.

29. Development of fish sanctuary and fish park at Pathiramanal

The title is slightly misleading. We consider this as a proposal for a fish sanctuary
around the Pathiramanal. If it is so, it is advisable. No serious interventions should
be made in the area around Pathiramanal. Opinion of an Expert Committee may be
sought before launching any interventions.

30. Security lights using solar lamps

No installation of any kind of light be permitted. All tourists should leave the island
before the sun set. Artificial lights of any kind would spoil the natural settings of the
island. Moreover, such lights would affect the behaviour of insects, birds and other
animals.

31. Waste management

It is not only that the Pathiramanal island should be made plastic free, an elaborate
arrangements should be made to keep the island and its surroundings free from any
kind of waste. Organisations like the Kudumbashree must be made responsible for
the same.

Fig .8 Plastic items dumped inside the island

General Recommendations

All the major activities related to tourism may be restricted to the mainland- i.e.,
at Muhamma Panchayat. The following themes, apart from those given in the
proposal, would be appropriate.

 A brackish water livery (Aquarium)
 A Coir Museum. (including history of coir)
 A Tourism Interpretation Centre
 A cafeteria / canteen run by the Kudumbasree Unit
 A ticket counter in the mainland for getting tickets to enter the island
 A regular monitoring committee under the Panchayat to review the activities

Conclusions

As of now the Pathiramanal Island is in a process of succession and slowly reverting back
to a wild ecological community. This fragile ecosystem should be free of any kind of
constitutional activities and preserved for posterity. All the proposed activities can be
taken up in the mainland, as indicated in the report. There should be a “green buffer
zone” around the island devoid of intervention of boats so as to protect the fish
biodiversity and facilitate breeding of fishes such as Karimeen.

The island should serve as a “field laboratory” for students and researchers to study the
wetland ecosystem.
A proposal to develop Pathiramanal as a tourist spot, was prepared as early as 1984,
but was turned down due to various reasons. This proposal in 1980’s came at a time
when there were not much of tourist activities in the Vembanad Lake and nearby
areas. But now the area is flooded with hotels and lagoons, especially in the
Kumarakom area with a view to attract foreign tourists and affluent tourists from
within India. With the existing tourism activities in the area, it is necessary to look at
the scope for further tourism activities at Pathiramanal Island per se, especially at the
wake of emerging environmental and social issues coming up in the area.

The State Biodiversity Board would also propose to declare the ‘Pathiramanal Island’ as
a “Heritage Site”.

Appendix I

List of Plants Collected from Pathiramanal island

Sl. Name of plant Family Habit Distribution
No.

1 Acanthus illicifolius Acanthaceae Shrub Rare

2 Hygrophila quadrivalvis ,, Subshrub Few

3 Justicia procumbens ,, Herb Few

4 Alternanthera philoxeroides Amaranthaceae Herb Few

5 Alternanthera sessilis ,, Herb Few

6 Anacardium occidentale Anacardiaceae Tree Few

7 Holigarna arnottiana ,, Tree Frequent

8 Lannea coromandelica ,, Tree ,,

9 Mangifera indica ,, Tree Very Few-cult.

10 Annona glabra Annonaceae Tree Frequent

11 Centella asiatica Apiaceae Herb Few

12 Alstonia scholaris Apocynaceae Tree Very few

13 Cerebera odollam ,, Tree Frequent

14 Ichnocarpus fruitescens ,, Climber Rare

15 Tabernamontana heyneana ,, Tall shrub Sparse

16 Aponogeton appendiculatus Aponogetonaceae Hydrophyte Sparse

17 Aponogeton natans ,, ,, Sparse

18 Colocasia esculenta Araceae Herb Few

19 Cryptocoryne retrospiralis ,, ,, Few

20 Cryptocoryne spiralis ,, ,, Few

21 Pistia stratiotes ,, ,, Frequent

22 Pothos scandens ,, Climber Few

23 Calotropis gigantea Asclepiadaceae Shrub Few

24 Cynanchum callialatum Ham.ex ,, Climber Rare
Wight

25 Parsonsia inodora ,, ,, Frequent

26 Tylophora indica ,, ,, Few

27 Wattakkakka volubilis ,, ,, Frequent

28 Blumea membranacea Asteraceae Herb Few

29 Chromolaena odorata ,, Shrub Common

30 Emilia sonchifolia ,, Herb Few

31 Mikania cordata ,, Shrub Common


No.

32 Spilanthes calva ,, Herb Few

33 Vernonia cinerea ,, Herb Common

34 Vernonia elliptica ,, Climber Few

35 Wedelia chinensis ,, herb Frequent

36 Barringtonia racemosa Barringtoniaceae Tree Few

37 Dolichandrone spathacea Bignoniaceae ,, Few

38 Garuga pinnata Burseraceae ,, Sparse

39 Ananas comosus Bromeliaceae Shrub Sparse – cult.

40 Cabomba aquatica Cabombaceae Hydrophyte Frequent

41 Lobelia alsinoides Campanulaceae Herb Frequent

42 Calophyllum apetalum Clusiaceae Tree Rare

43 Calophyllum inophyllum ,, Tree Frequent

44 Garcinia cambogea ,, ,, Few – cult.

45 Terminalia catappa Combretaceae ,, Frequent- cult.

46 Commelina benghalensis Commelinaceae Herb Frequent

47 Cyanotis axillaris ,, ,, Frequent

48 Murdennia spirata ,, ,, Frequent

49 Ipomea aquatica Convolvulaceae Climber Frequent

50 Ipomea cairica ,, ,, Frequent

51 Ipomea palmate ,, ,, Frequent

52 Ipomea pes-caprae ,, ,, Few

53 Merremia vitifolia ,, ,, Few

54 Mukia maderaspatana Cucurbitaceae ,, Few

55 Luffa cylindrica ,, ,, Rare

56 Cyperus distans Cyperaceae Herb Abundant

57 Cyperus compressus ,, ,, Abundant

58 Cyperus pangorei ,, ,, Abundant

59 Ealeocharis sp. ,, ,, Abundant

60 Fimbristylis dichotoma ,, ,, Abundant

61 Kyllinga brevifolia ,, ,, Abundant

62 Mariscus sp ,, Abundant

63 Pycerus polystachyos ,, ,, Abundant

64 Rhynchospora corymbosa ,, ,, Abundant

65 Schoenoplectus articulatus ,, ,, Abundant

66 Schoenoplectus littoralis ssp. ,, ,, ,,
subulatus

67 Eriocaulon cinereum Eriocaulaceae ,, Few

68 Eriocaulon quinquangulare ,, ,, Few

69 Breynia vitis-idaea Euphorbiaceae Shrub Frequent

70 Euphorbia hirta ,, Herb Frequent

71 Excoecaria agallocha ,, Tree Few

72 Glochidion zeylanicum ,, Tree Few


No.

73 Aporussa lindleyana Euphorbiacaea Tree Sparse

74 Phyllanthus amarus ,, Herb Abundant

75 Caesalpinia cucullata Fabaceae- Climber Very Rare
Caesalpinioideae

76 Senna alata ,, Shrub Abundant

Tamarindus indica ,, Tree Few – cult.

77 Abrus precatorius Fabaceae- Climber Few
Papilionoideae

78 Canavalia cathartica ,, ,, Abundant

79 Crotalaria nana ,, Herb Abundant

80 Crotalaria pallida var ,, Shrub Abundant
obovata

81 Derris scandens ,, Climber Abundant

82 Derris trifoliate ,, Climber Abundant

83 Desmodium heterophyllum ,, Herb Abundant

84 Erythrina orientalis ,, Tree Very few-cult.

85 Mucuna gigantea ,, Climber Few

86 Pongamia pinnata ,, Tree Frequent

87 Acacia auriculiformis Fabaceae- ,, Few-cult.
Mimosoideae

88 Acacia mangium ,, ,, 1 tree-cult.

89 Mimosa pudica ,, Herb Common

90 Enterolobium saman ,, Tree Few-cult.

91 Leucaenea leucocephala ,, ,, Few-cult.

92 Hydnocarpus pentandra Flacourtiaceae Tree Few

93 Flagellaria indica Flagellariaceae Climber Common

94 Vallisnaria spiralais Hydrocharitaceae Hydrophyte Few

95 Olea dioica Oleaceae Tree Frequent

96 Jussiaea repens Onagraceae Herb Few

97 Acampe praemorsa Orchidaceae ,, Few

98 Hyptis capitata Lamiaceae ,, Abundant

99 Leucas aspera Lamiaceae ,, Common

100 Cinnamomum zeylanicum Lauraceae Tree Sparse

101 Crinum defixum Liliaceae Herb Abundant

102 Hibiscus tiliaceaus Malvaceae Tree Very Common

103 Sida cordifolia ,, Herb Abundant

104 Sida rhomboidea ,, ,, Abundant

105 Urena lobata ,, Shrub Common

106 Melastoma malabathricum Melastomataceae ,, Common

107 Nymphoides indica Menyanthaceae Hydrophyte Few

108 Artocarpus hirsutus Moraceae Tree Common

109 Artocarpus integrifolia ,, Tree Few-cult.

110 Ficus amplissima ,, ,, Fe


No.

111 Ficus benghalensis Moraceae Tree Very few-cult.

112 Ficus religiosa ,, ,, 1 tree- cult.

113 Ficus tinctoria ssp. parasitica ,, ,, Few

114 Ficus talbotii ,, ,, Few

115 Ficus virens ,, ,, Few

116 Ardisia littoralis Myrsinaceae Shrub Common

117 Eucalyptus tereticornis Myrtaceae Tree Very few-cult

118 Sonneratia caseolaris ,, ,, Very few ?

119 Psidium gujava ,, ,, Few- cult

120 Syzygium caryophyllatum ,, ,, Common

121 Nymphaea nauchali Nymphaceae Hydrophyte Few

122 Caryota urens Palmae Tree Few

123 Cocos nucifera ,, ,, Abundant-cult.

124 Pandanus odoratissimus Pandanaceae ,, Abundant

125 Passiflora foetida Passifloraceae Climber Abundant

126 Arundo donax Poaceae Subshrub Abundant

127 Brachiaria ramosa ,, Herb Abundant

127 Brachiaria mutica ,, ,, Abundant

127 Cynodon dactylon ,, ,, Abundant

130 Dactyloctenium aegypticum ,, ,, Abundant

131 Elusine indica ,, ,, Abundant

132 Ischaemum indicum ,, ,, Common

133 Ischaemum muticum ,, ,, Common

134 Panicum repens ,, ,, Abundant

135 Perotis indica ,, ,, Abundant

136 Phragmites karka ,, Shrub Abundant

137 Sacciolepis indica ,, Herb Abundant

138 Zoysia matrella ,, Herb Abundant

139 Eicchornia crassipes Pontederiaceae Hydrophyte Common

140 Monochoria vaginalis ,,, ,, Common

141 Polygonum barbatum Polygonaceae Herb Few

142 Zizyphus oenoplea Rhamnaceae Shrub Few

143 Bruguiera gymnorhiza Rhizophoraceae Tree - Few Natural&Cult

144 Bruguiera cylindrica ,, Tree Few- Cult.

145 Rhizophora apiculata ,, ,, Few- Cult

146 Rhizophora mucronata ,, ,, Few- Cult.

147 Kandelia candel ,, ,, Few- Cult.

148 Canthium coromandelicum Rubiaceae Shrub Few

149 Ixora coccinea ,, ,, Common

150 Knoxia mollis ,, Herb Common

151 Morinda citrifolia ,, Tree Abundant

152 Mitracarpus villosus ,, Herb Common

153 Oldenlandia umbellata ,, Herb Frequent


No.

154 Spermacoce hispida ,, Herb

155 Melochia corchorifolia Sterculiaceae Subshrub Common

156 Adenosma indianum Scrophulariaceae Herb Abundant

157 Ailanthus excelsa Simaroubaceae Tree Few

158 Samadera indica ,, ,, Few

159 Triumfetta rhomboidea Sterculiaceae Subshrub Abundant

160 Clerodendron siphonanthus Verbenaceae Shrub Few

161 Clerodendron inerme ,, Climber Few

162 Clerodendron viscosum ,, Shrub Few

163 Phyla nodiflora ,, Herb Few

164 Premna serraitfolia ,, Small tree Few

165 Cayratia trifolia(L.) Domain Vitaceae Climber Common

166 Cissus arnottiana ,, Shrub- climber Few

PTERIDOPHYTA ( 10 Spp.)


No.

167 Acrostichum aureum Adiantaceae Shrub Common

168 Adiantum latifolium ,, Herb Few

169 Azolla sp. Azollaceae Hydrophyte Few

170 Ceratopteris thalictroides Parkeriaceae ,, Few

171 Drynaria quercifolia Drynariaceae Epiphyte Few

172 Lepisorus nudus Polypodiaceae ,, Common

173 Lygodium flexuosum Lygodiaceae Climber Very common

174 Salvinia cucullata Salviniaceae Hydrophyte Very common

175 Stenochlaena palustris Stenochlaenaceae ShrubbyClimber Very common

176 Unidentified species ……… Sub shrub Common

Mangrove Plants: K K Ramachandran et al ( 1999) reported three species of Mangroves

Bruguiera gymnorhiza, Excoecaria agallocha and Sonneratia caseolaris from the island.

Azeez et al (2004) Mentioned four species of Mangroves – Excoecaria agallocha

Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata and Ceriops species as occurring in the

island.

In the present study only few plants of Bruguiera gymnorhiza and Excoecaria

agallocha were found growing naturally in the island. All other species could not be

located and their absence may be due to the lack of salt in the estuarine water and
human ]

intervention within the island. the Kerala Forest Department started cultivation of

Mangrove plants around the island few metres from the periphery of the island. This

include species such as Rhizophora mucronata, Rhizophora apiculata, Bruguiera

gymnorhiza and Kandelia candel according to the Divisional Foresrt Officer, Alleppey Dt.,

who took initiatives in cultivating these plants there. Sonneratia caseolaris seems

to occur in the middle part of the marshy area which could not be collected directly due
to

inaccessibility.

Appendix II
6.0 PRIORITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS PROPOSED

6.1 Development in main land at Kaipuram

7.1.1 Improvement to the road from Kaipuram junction to Entrance area
in main land

N.H. 47 between Alappuzha and Sherthalai passes at about a distance of 6.00 KMs.
east of Alappuzha Thannermukkom road. The connection between these two roads is
through the road that takes off from Thiruvizha Junction in the National High way
and joins near Kaipuram Junction. The development of this 6.00 KM sketch of the
road is being taken up under a separate scheme.

The road from Kaipuram Junction upto the jetty is about 1.60 KMs long and is
proposed to be developed under this scheme From Kaipuram jetty Pathiramanal can
be reached by traveling in the boat for a distance of 600 Mts.

The road is having only 3.6 Mtr tar width. But there is land width for widening Side
drains may have to be constructed for some portion and the length of drain proposed
is 150 mtrs. The proposal is to widen the road to 6 mtr. tar width finished with 20mm
thick chipping carpet. The berms of 1.20 mtr, width on either side will be strengthened
by providing two course water bound macadam to make a total width of 6.00 mtr,
over which the chipping carpet will be laid. Road lighting wring using ornamental
poles and M.V lamps is also proposed. Road markings, reflectors and signages will also
be provided. The total cost of improving the 1.60 kms. of road is estimated as Rs.
16.00 Lakhs.

7.1.2 Signages

The proposal is to put up special signages along the National High way. In the sign
boards the distance to Pathiramanal and list of attractions there will be shown. 200
Nos. of reflective sign boards are proposal in the National High way from Kochi to
Haripad. Each sign board will cost Rs. 20,000/-. A very prominent sign board will be
put up at Thiruvizha Junction in between Alappuzha and Sherthala on the National

High way. This is the point from where the road leading to Kaipuram Junction takes
off. This signage will cost Rs. 35,000/-. The total cost of signages will be Rs. 4.50
lakhs.

7.1.3 Gate way Arch at Kaipuram Junction

A suitable structure will be placed at the starting point on the road leading to
Kaipuram jetty. The cost is Rs. 1.50 Lakhs

7.1.4 Gate structure at main entrance

A gate structure with suitable guard room and 6.00 m wide gates for IN and OUT will
be constructed at the entrance to the complex proposed to be made on the land near
Kaipuram jetty. All vehicular and pedestrians traffic will be controlled at this point.
The cost of this structure is estimated to be
Rs.5.50 Lakhs

Site for gateway structure

7.1.5 Development of Entrance area and Parking

The entrance area will have concrete inter locking cobble stone paved parking for
buses and cars. The area of parking area proposed is 3320 M2 and the cost is Rs. 27.60
Lakhs

Site for Entrance area and block

7.1.6 Entrance block for reception, Library and Store, video centre cum
interpretation centre, sovenier shop cum communication center,
restaurant, foyer, locker room and toilet and rest rooms
The Entrance block will have different buildings to accommodate Reception with
Manager room, Video centre cum Interpretation centre, Library and store, Locker
room with General Toilets for Ladies and Gents, Souvenir shop with Communication
Centre, Rest rooms for visitors and staff. All these facilities are accommodated in six
independent module buildings of typical Kerala style each having 49 M2 plinth area. A
restaurant block of 289 square mtr. is proposed with required kitchen and pantry,
Service road approach will be given to the kitchen block. All these buildings will be
connected by a covered foot path which will have typical Kerala style thatched roof
with treated coconut cadges. A corridor of 2.00 mts width is also provided on the rear
side of the buildings. The total area of these corridors will be 534 Square mtrs. The
total area of the buildings including corridors will be 1117 Square mtrs. The total cost
of the entrance block will be Rs. 109.25 Lakhs.

4.3.7. Aquarium and Museum Block

Am aquarium which will show case different types of fish and other species of
creatures living in water will be setup. In this aquarium a major area will be for special
show casing of all types of fishes found in the Vembanad lake and surrounding water
bodies in Kuttanad and Karapuram. The Aquarium will be accommodated in the
ground floor of two storied Kerala style building with a central pond in which large
fishes will be grown. The building will be placed in the plot on the other side of
Kayipuram jetty road The area of the building is 841 Square mtrs in each floor.

The museum will be accommodated in the first floor at the aquarium block. „Natural
History‟, „Geological history‟, „Culture‟ and „Art forms of Kuttanad‟, „Butterfly
information‟, „Agriculture practices and implements of Kuttanad‟ etc. will be the
subjects that will be showcased in this museum. A seminar hall will also be a part of
museum. The area of the Museum block will be 841 Square mtrs and the total plinth
area of the building is 1682 Square mtrs. The cost estimated is Rs. 258.00 Lakhs.

7.1.8 Boat Terminal and Jetty

A boat terminal of typical Kerala type building of 80 M 2 area will be constructed near
the Kayal bank. 3.60 mts. wide walk way for a length of 16 mts upto the jetty and a
jetty of size 18.00 mts. × 6.00 mts will be provided, duly supported by concrete piles.
The deck and walk way will have Ferro cement hand rails. The cost of the boat
terminal and jetty is Rs. 25.00 Lakhs

7.1.9 Landscaping the entrance area

The balance area after leaving the paved parking will be landscaped. Large number of
trees will be planted to make the whole area a „green park‟. The total area of
landscaping proposed is 1800M2 and the estimated cost is Rs. 4.00
Lakhs.

7.2 Improvements in the Pathiramanal Island

7.2.1 Boat jetty

The boat jetty will be constructed as an extension of the floating walk way and will be
made with the same treated wood deck over poly ethylene floating units.

This work has also to be arranged as part of floating walk way as a turn key job. The
cost for the jetty is also included in the floating walk way costing.

7.2.2 Floating walkway

The island is full of various kinds of trees shrubs and creepers and is very interesting
to see them from the Kayal side. Also the water edge has mangroves at many places
with many types of mangrove creatures living there. The mangroves area is to be
expanded, enhanced and conserved. The mangroves with its various species of
mangroves animal and other creatures will be a special attraction to the scientist and
ecologist. For having a close sight a walkway around the Island is required. Bird
watching using binoculars from this walkway will also be very interesting.

It will be further interesting if one can walk around over a floating platform which will
move up and done in tune with the wave of Vembanadu lake. Only eco friendly
materials are to be used for the platform. The solution is to provide the floating
platform in treated wood over poly ethylene pontoons. The whole platform with
handrails will be kept in position using R.C.C. guide piles driven into the sand. The
timber used is usually treated Western Red Cedar or Alaskan Yellow Cedar. The
technology of making this type of glue jointed floating walk ways is available with
foreign companies in Singapore, Malaysia and U.S.A. The length of the walk way
around the Pathiramanal is 2200 mts. The walk way will be 200 cm. wide with hand
rails on both sides. This work will be taken up in phases. In the first phase a length of
500 mtrs. will be done. At four important places where mangroves are thikly growing
will be selected and 100 meter length each with land connection and 100 meter length
along with the jetty are proposed. The total area of the platform will be 1100 M², in
the cost worked out of is Rs. 118.00 lakhs.

7.2.3 Entrance to Pathiramanal

The Boat jetty is connected to the floating walkway and then to the land using floating
platforms similar to that for walk way. The entrance portion will have rough granite
slab paving and two granite pillar blocks to mark the gate way to

the Island. The present masonry arch which does not suit the ambience will be
removed. The floating connections from jetty to land, paving the entrance portion
and the granite pillar blocks is estimated to cost Rs.2.50 Lakhs.

7.2.4 Main Central walk way

There is already a path way from the jetty area to the other side of the island where a
statue of Sree Narayana Guru is installed. This central walk way which is going right
across the island almost through the centre is to be widened to allow two way
pedestrian traffic. A width of 3.00 mtr. is proposed for this walk way to allow free
movement of pedestrian groups going in opposite directions.

The walk way will be widened without affecting any existing trees. The path way will
be paved with rough granite slabs with local grass grown on the joints. Small trees will
be planted on either side of this paving so as to make the same grow and form a
canopy over the walk way. The total length of the walk way is 510 mtrs. and the area is
1530 sqare meters . The cost for making this paved path way is Rs. 8.00 Lakhs.

7.2.5 Periferal walk way

There is a foot path (trail) along the periphery of the island covering almost 75%
length. A small portion of this pathway is concreted. The balance portion is also to be
formed. The trail is zigzag and goes round trees or water bodies.

The same trail will be retained and new portion will also be formed adopting the same
principle. The path will be developed to have 2.00 mtr. width and will be paved with
rough granite slabs with local grass grown in the fruits. Bird watching sites, rain
shelters, toilets etc. will have connection from this path way. This path way will be
connected to the floating walk way in the kayal at 4 places so that people using the
floating walk way can reach rain shelters and other kiosks easily. The total length of the
peripheral walk way is 2005 mtrs and the area is 4010 sq. mts. The cost for making this
paved path way is
Rs. 13.00 Lakhs.

7.2.6 Development of grove with different plant species seen in Kuttanad and
Karapuram area

On either side of the central walk way there is an area of 2.30 hectares
(5.68 acres) of abandoned paddy fields. This area is ideal for developing a special grove
for planting all species of trees and plants common in Kuttanad and Karapuram areas.
Only organic farming will be resorted to. All plants and trees will be named with
identification boards. Foot paths (Trails) will be formed to reach each and every
section of this garden. Signagses giving all details of each plant will be put up. This will
be a very great attraction for the tourists and students. The farming and upkeep of this
grove can generate employment opportunities to weaker sections of the local public.
The soils that will be scooped out for widening of the canals and pond can be used for
raising the land level of the paddy fields to the desired level for the garden. Irrigation
to this garden can be arranged from the fresh water pond using solar pumps. The
expense for this project which will cover an area of 23,000 sq. mtr is estimated to be
Rs. 17.00 Lakhs.

7.2.7 Development of Fresh water pond

Near the entrance area there is a fresh water pond. The area of the pond is
2100 M2. The pond has got fresh water in it even though the island is surrounded by
saline waters of the Vembanad Lake. The Lake is now silted up and the banks have
slipped.
The
proposal
is to de silt
and
deepen
the pond
and
provide
ashlars
paving on the tank slopes. At various places steps will be constructed to go down to
the water. The area around the pond will be landscaped and ashlar stone seating will

also be provided. Fresh water fish varieties will be grown in this tank water lily and
lotus which are easily growing aquatic flowering plants will be planted in this pond
development the pond and surrounding area and providing seating arrangement will
cost Rs. 10.00 Lakhs.

7.2.8 Development of the major canals in the island

There is one major Canal which starts from Vembanad lake near the light house area.
It flows east wards towards the centre of the island, them turning to north till it
crosses the central path way, then goes back towards west and north to join the lake.

There is another main canal which is now blocked. This starts from the first main
canal from near the centre goes east wards and joins the lake. This length is also to be
rejuvenated for the flowing of lake water from west to east and east to west according
to the tidal variations. Both these Canals are wide and are navigable if developed. The
total length of the 1st main canal is 780 mtrs and the 2nd one to be excavated and
rejuvenated is 180 mtrs. The proposal is to completely de silt the Canal reform the
slopes of the banks and line with rough granite blocks. At various places small jetty
like platforms will be made to enter the pedal boats. The boating will be stopped at a
distance of about 20 mtrs from Kayal by driving down wooden pile stoppers. The
Canal at this portion will have a wider area for turning around of boats. Pedal boats
alone will be allowed. The cost of developing this facility and improving the canals will
be Rs. 17.00 Lakhs.

7.2.9 Rejuvenation of Minor Canals and small ponds (5 Nos.)

The island is having a large no. of minor canals criss crossing the land.. There are also
five small ponds located at various places in the island.

‘Kaitha plant’

The Canals are very critical in controlling the subsoil water level which is essential for
the growing of plants. The total length of these Canals is about 4850 mts and are of
varying widths. The minor ponds are the water conservation sources. The general
consensus reached in the seminar is that these canals may be cleared only to the extent
where it is completely blocked and very heavily silted up. The pond may be de silted.
The banks may be corrected by doing very minor formations. “Kaitha” (botanical
name „Ananas cosmosus’) may be planted on the bank to stop further soil erosion. The
planting can be done by the Panchayat with local participation. These minor
development works are estimated to cost Rs. 3.50 Lakhs.

7.2.10 Landscaped resting area on the eastern end of central pathway

The clear area at the eastern end of the central walkway will be landscaped with large
no. of informal seatings made in ashlars blocks. The area will be the general resting
place. At present there is a statue of Sree Narayana Guru at this place which will be
retained. The toilet blocks will be located in the near by areas conveniently. The
floating restaurant will also be located near this. The landscaping and informal seating
will cost Rs. 4.00 Lakhs.

7.2.11 Establishment of a butterfly garden at Pathiramanal for promoting
ecotourism and public awareness on biodiversity conservation.

Butterflies are among the most beautiful organisms in the universe, which have
fascinated naturalists for centuries. There are approximately 20,000 species of
butterflies distributed throughout the world. India, with its diversified ecosystems
ranging from the snow-clad temperate forests in the Himalayas to the tropical wet
evergreen forests of the Western Ghats, has a rich butterfly fauna. So far, about 1500
species of butterflies have been recorded from India, of which about 314 species are
found in Kerala, which include a high proportion of rare and endemic species. All of
these butterflies are found in the Western Ghats region as well.

Butterflies being highly diversified in their habits require specific ecological conditions
for their survival. Natural forests, grass lands, canopies of trees as well as wet areas
along the banks of rivers and streams are the typical butterfly habitats. However, due
to various reasons, particularly due to human intervention, the habitats of many
butterflies have been altered. As a result, many species of butterflies that were once
very common in our homesteads and country sides have vanished.

The proposal is to develop a butterfly park near the fresh water pond so as to promote
public awareness on nature conservation, and to facilitate bio diversity conservation.
As per the consensus reached in the seminar on 5-6-2007 only the species now seen in
the island will be conserved. No new species from out side will be introduced.

To achieve this the development project proposed is explained below:-

Butterflies have two important phases in their life cycle – an immature (caterpillar)
stage which feeds on the foliage of specific host plants and an adult stage which feeds
on nectar or sappy exudations. Various species of butterflies require specific host
plants for their development. They also require specific ecological and environmental
conditions for their survival. While preparing a butterfly garden, all these aspects need
to be considered. The major activities involved in the preparation of a butterfly garden
are landscaping of the area for recreating butterfly habitats and introduction of
appropriate host plants for sustaining various butterflies. Openings, bushes, hedges,
lawns, ponds and streams offer suitable conditions to attract and sustain various
butterflies in any given location. Since environmental education of the public is one of
the important targets of such programmes, care should be taken to make an exhibitory
of various groups of butterflies in the garden and also to provide necessary
information to the public. For this, a trek path 1.5 m width traversing the different
habitats such as lawns, rock gardens, streams, bushes, lianas, and hedges will be set up
so as to enable the visitors to make direct observations on butterflies present in the
garden.

In the project, the exiting vegetation will be maintained more or less intact in order to
sustain butterflies that are already surviving in the area. Most butterflies require high
Relative Humidity and for this, the project area identified near the pond, which is
more or less plain will be made undulating through landscaping in order to create
more surface area for retaining high humidity. In the different butterfly habitats that
are created on either side of the trek-path, various larval host plant varities available in
the island will be planted. A few nectar plants (Clerodendrum capitatum, Allamanda
cathartica, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Cuphea miniata, Zinnia haageana, Marigold, Clerodendrum
capitatum, Lantana camara) will be introduced to sustain various butterflies. The ground
vegetation and the leaves accumulated on the ground will be left undisturbed in order
to offer suitable habitats for satyrid butterflies. The project area will be fenced using
wooden frames and reapers, over which various creepers, generally available in the
island and a few other species which are known butterfly host plants will be grown.

Information pertaining to butterflies will be provided in the Interpretation Centre and
by providing Information Boards and models of butterfly stages along the Nature
Trail, Information brochures and various products (photographs, Greeting Cards,
Posters, models, bags etc.) will be sold through the Souvenir Shop set up in the
Entrance Block which will help in generating revenue for running the facility and also
will provide some employment opportunity to the local people.

The Panchayat will select few local people and the Kerala Forest Research Institute
will train them to work as butterfly gardeners.

This project will be implemented through Kerala Forest Research Institute and the
estimated cost is Rs. 17.25 Lakhs.

7.6.12 Providing rain shelters

The proposal is to construct 3 rain shelters at places near the peripheral walk way. The
shelters will be very eco friendly structures with stone, pillars, rough stone parapets
and rough ashlars tile paved floor. The roof will be with wooden frame work and
reepers covered with grass thatching. The area of each rain shelter is 25 M2 and the
total cost of shelters is Rs.3.60 Lakhs.

7.2.13 Providing toilet blocks

Toilet blocks will be located on the eastern side close to the food kiosk in the resting
areas (open) provided near the statue. The building will be very eco friendly with stone
walls and clad with split bamboos.

High level ventilators with honey comb work in the stone walls will be provided. The
doors will be covered with split bamboo slats over water proof ply wood. There will be
separate portions for ladies toilets and gents toilets. Green fence using suitable shrubs
will be made all-round the building to partially hide them. The area of the toilet blocks
is 156.30 M2 and the estimated cost is Rs. 14.00 Lakhs.

7.2.14 Providing Floating Restaurant

To restrict constructions in the Island a Floating Restaurant with a small pantry will be
provided with floating walkway connection. Kerala type snacks, light working lunch, to
the tourists will be provided here. This will be located close to the open resting area
near the statue. The Restaurant building will also be constructed as an open restaurant
without side walls. The roof will be with wooden frame, reepers and thatching. This
building will have a traditional wooden ceiling. The food will be cooked in the main
land kitchen and brought to the pantry for serving. The total area of the restaurant
block will be 156.30 M2 and the estimated cost is Rs. 34.50 Lakhs.

7.2.15 Bird Watching Facility

The traditional bird
sanctuary at
Kumarakom in
the Vembanad Lake
is being threatened
and almost destroyed
due to excessive human
intervention,
intensive use of
motor boats and other
disturbances.
The bid sanctuary
proposed in
Pathiramanal
island will be protected
from undue disturbances. The island will have a belt of mangroves at water fringe and
entry to these mangrove forest will be prevented. The calm atmosphere, thick growth
of mangroves at water edge, tall leafy tree on the back of mangroves etc are all what is
required for a good bird sanctuary. In years to come the Pathiramanal Island will
become one of the fore most bird sanctuaries. Bird census and listing of birds will be
an important activity that can be done in this sanctuary. For these activities and also
for the tourists interested in bird watching 3 bird watching facilities on tree tops will be
made. Wooden ladders will be provided to reach these tree houses. The estimated cost
of construction of these 3 bird watching facilities will be Rs. 3.75 Lakhs.

7.2.16 Integrated Management action plan for Mangroves

The present status of mangroves and their continuing destruction has created great
concern among the public as well as Government agencies. Studies specify that two
endangered mangrove species Bruguiera gymnorhiza and Sonneratia needs proper
protection.

It has become a necessity to conserve the remaining mangroves and also to carry out
afforestation in the available areas to protect their biodiversity and associated fauna.
Afforestation cum conservation of the island margins with suitable mangrove plants in
proposed as a management option.

Pathiramanal Island has the following species of mangrove plants “Bruguiera
gymnorrhiza, Bruguiera parviflora, Excoecaria agallocha, Sonneratia caseolar is,
Sonneratia apetala”. To conserve and enhance the mangrove growth the follwing
objectives are set.

 Rejeneration and conservation of mangroves in the island.

 Protection of natural ecosystem by establishing a bioshield of mangrove in the
finges of the island.

 Conservation of rare species of indigenous plants and fishes.

 To develop mangrove nurseries in selected areas.

 To undertake awareness campaigns for the management of existing and
regenerated mangrove afforestation.

Th consensus arrived in the seminar is to plant the mangroves only in selected areas
along the peripheral. Seedlings of the native mangrove species will be planted. It is
decided to plant mangroves, adopting a novel technology called Riley Encased

Methodology. Mangrove replenishment methodology developed by Bob Riley is
proved successful in many foreign countries like Australia, U.S.A. etc. for shoreline
revegetation programmes and coastal protection especially with the fury of winds and
waves. This technology is popularly known as Riley encased methodology (REM).

Mass Awareness Campaign:-

Awareness on the importance of conservation, protection and afforestation of
mangroves will be given to scientists, environmentalists, social workers, policy makers,
teachers, students, common people etc. Consequences of mangrove deforestation like
global warming, decline in fish fauna, soil erosion etc. will be projected.

 Awareness through print media-news papers, posters, booklets.

 Audio-Visual Media-Awareness program in radio, television etc.

 Awareness amongst the public on the importance of mangroves and need for
its preservation by education of the village people.

Benefits of the project are as given bellow

 Biodiversity of mangrove flora and in turn the associated flora and fauna will
improve.

 Species relationship and food web strengthens.

 Reintroduction and conservation of threatened mangrove will maintain the
gene pool diversity.

 The mangrove root system and organic debris provide nursery, breeding and
feeding ground for may varieties of economically important fin fishes,
shellfishes enhancing the fishery resources.

 Awareness programmes among local communities, policy makers and scientists
will strengthen mangrove conservation.

The planting is proposed to be done with public participation under the guidance of
State Fisheries Resoruce Management Society (FIRMA). The anticipated cost for
planting mangroves and conducting mass avaireness compaign is Rs. 2.00 Lakhs.

7.2.17 Development of fish sanctuary and fish park at Pathiramanal

The Vembanad lake which surrounds the Pathiramanal island is the largest backwater
body in Kerala. This has an area of 179 sq.km. These waters are home to some of the
most beautiful and unique estuaries vegetation. Over the years increasing pressures
has been placed on estuarine environment. Pearl spots (Karimen), Kuil (Water birds)
and Konchu (Shell fish) are the brand products of backwater tourism in Vembanad.
With the boom of back water tourism, the demand for karimeen the high valued food
fish in Vembanad is on the increase. Since most of the valuable species are generally
exploited to the maximum, the fishery of this species in subjected to increasing
pressure. In the context that several fish species have disappeared from the lake
consequent to commissioning of salt water barrage across the lake, the worst affected
have been the most lucrative fishery of giant fresh water prawn and the black „clam‟
that supported a rich shell fishery. The situation calls for concerted efforts for
conservation of the endangered species by habitat protection and recruitment
promotion. It is under this context the regional Agricultural Research Station,
Kumarakom has come up with a proposal to establish a fish sanitary and fish park in
Pathiramanal which form part of the project of Pathiramanal Bio Park aimed for
conservation of bio diversity. The estimated cost for stage 1 is
Rs. 26.00 Lakhs.

7.2.18 Security lights using solar lamps

A few lights will be installed in the open areas where sunlight is available using
independent solar panels. The lights are required only in cases of emergency as no
night activity is contemplated in the Island. The cost for this component will be Rs.
5.00 Lakhs.

7.2.19 Waste Management

The Island will be declared as a no plastic zone. No food packets or drinking water sill
be allowed inside the Island. Food from the floating restaurant will be served in
degradable materials like plantain leafs etc. Drinking water in 20 liter jars will be
brought to the Island and served in paper cups at a nominal cost. This activity will be
taken up by the self help groups (local women). A constant vigil will be kept by the
guides and interpreters to see that no wastes are put in the Island.

The waste from the floating food stall will be converted as compost and used in the
plant grove. The sewage from the toilet block will be treated in a septic tank adopting
anaerobic process. The effluent will be diluted with water and used in irrigation in the
plant grove.

7.2.20 Training of local people as guides and boats men
In any conservation oriented tourism project the local people should get benefit which
will improve their life style. The local Panchayat will mobilize a programme for
selecting suitable local people and give them training to work as guides, boatmen etc.
Their standard fees will be fixed and notified for the tourists to employ them. The
training programme production required print material will cost Rs. 2.00 Lakhs. This
will be implemented through Muhamma Grama Panchayat.

7.2.21 Publicity and Marketing

Separate website with complete details will be established and updated periodically.
Publicity through media on the bio-diversity of this Island and the conservation
programme under taken to preserve them will be given. Print materials for publicity
will be prepared and used for publicity. A short video film (documentary) will be
produced and exhibited at various places in India and during tourism festivals outside
India. The anticipated expense will be Rs. 10.00 lakhs.

8.0 PROJECT ABSTRACT WITH COST DETAILS

Cost of the
Sl No. Name of Component Project
(Rs. in Lakhs.)
Development in main land at Kaipuram
7.1

Improvement to the road form Kaipuram
7.1.1 16.00
junction to Entrance area in main land
7.1.2 Signages 4.50
7.1.3 Gate way Arch at Kaipuram Junction 1.50

7.1.4 Gate structure at main entrance 6.30

7.1.5 Development of Entrance area and Parking 27.60
Entrance Block for Reception Video Centre
7.1.6 109.25
Restaurant etc.
7.1.7 Aquarium and Museum Block 258.00
7.1.8 Boat Terminal and Jetty 25.00
7.1.9 Landscaping the entrance area 4.00
7.2 Improvements in the Pathiramanal Island
7.2.1 Boat jetty
7.2.2 Floating walkway 118.00
7.2.3 Entrance to Pathiramanal 2.50
7.2.4 Main Central walk way 8.00
7.2.5 Periferal walk way 13.00
Development of grove for local plant species
7.2.6 of Kuttanad & Karapuram 17.00

7.2.7 Development of Fresh water pond 11.00

7.2.8 Development of the major canals in the island 17.00
Rejuvenation of Minor Canals and small ponds
7.2.9 (5 Nos.) 3.50

Landscaped resting area near the east end of
7.2.10 central walkway 4.00

Establishment of a butterfly garden at
7.2.11 Pathiramanal for promoting ecotourism and 17.25
public awareness on biodiversity conservation
7.2.12 Providing rain shelters 3.70
7.2.13 Providing toilet blocks 14.00
7.2.14 Providing Floating Restaurant 34.50
7.2.15 Bird Watching Facility 3.75
Integrated Management action plan for
7.2.16 Mangroves 2.00

7.2.17 Development of Fish sanctuary and Fish park 26.00
7.2.18 Security lights using solar lamps 5.00
7.2.19 Waste Management 0.50
Training of local people as guides and boats
7.2.20 men 2.00

7.2.21 Publicity and Marketing 10.00
Unforeseen works and project report
preparation charges 9.65

Total 775.00 Lakhs

Central share : Rs. 500.00 Lakhs.

State share : Rs. 275.00 Lakhs.

Total Project Cost : Rs. 775.00 Lakhs.

(Rupees Seven hundred and seventy five lakhs only)

Pathiramanal EIA report

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Pathiramanal EIA report