Elathur Lake Declared Tamil Nadu’s Third Biodiversity Heritage Site

fast summary

• The Tamil Nadu government has designated Elathur lake in Erode district as the State’s third Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS).
• The lake spans 37.42 hectares and is now protected under Section 37(1) of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
• Previous BHS designations include Arittapatti in Madurai district (November 2022) and kasampatty in Dindigul district (March 2025).
• Elathur lake is an ecologically critically important habitat for migratory and resident birds, hosting up to 5,000 birds during peak seasons.
• The site supports endangered species like the steppe eagle, vulnerable species such as river tern and greater spotted eagle, and near-threatened species including Asian woolly-necked stork and black-headed Ibis. A total of 187 bird species have been recorded at the site.
• Other biodiversity includes 38 plant species, 35 butterfly species, various reptiles, mammals, amphibians, dragonflies, fish, and other invertebrates.
• Notification for its designation was first issued on January 28, 2025.
• This initiative aims to maintain the ecological balance while preserving local cultural values.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The designation of Elathur lake as a Biodiversity Heritage Site underscores Tamil Nadu’s commitment to environmental conservation through targeted legal protections. By safeguarding this ecologically sensitive area rich with diverse wildlife-including rare bird species-the government not only ensures long-term ecological health but also strengthens bird migration networks vital for global biodiversity stability.

Beyond environmental benefits, such recognition fosters educational opportunities in ecology while promoting enduring eco-tourism that aligns with community welfare without endangering natural habitats. Though, effective management post-notification will be critical; sustained efforts are needed to monitor human activities around the lake to prevent degradation or interference with fragile ecosystems.

Such conservation measures serve as an crucial precedent for other states striving to balance ecological preservation alongside developmental goals.

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