Port Blair, March 22: One of the results of the Boxing Day Tsunami, which hit the islands on 26th Dec 2004 was the changed landscape of Sippighat and the surrounding villages of Teylerabad, Garacharma, Attam Pahad and nearing areas. While the tsunami had rendered many homeless and snatched the livelihood of farmers in the area, it has also created a rich wetland in what were once paddy fields. 

A low lying area flushed by the daily tides, this area is now rich in resident and migratory water fowl as well as terrestrial bird species. A not-to-be-missed site for bird watchers from Mainland India and abroad, this area is today is an important wetland, which needs conservation. An ecosystem rich with mangroves, mangrove associates and fringed by forest thickets, it is also good fishing spot for the local fishermen. 

Flocks of breeding resident water fowl like the Indian & Purple Moorhens, Yellow bitterns as well as endemic species Andaman Teal can be easily seen on the way from Port Blair town to Sippighat. But with these wetlands not being a Protected Area, this area is also frequented by local hunters.

Of late the Forest Department of the islands seems to have noticed the importance of this area and has increased vigil with their field staff keeping a watchful eye thwarting local hunters on the look for some jungli batak meat.

“We tell the hunters to avoid hunting in this area. Few understand but many argue as the land comes under Revenue”, explained a vigilant field staff posted in the area.

“The owners of the submerged land haven’t received their compensation yet. They are battling between the Administration’s proposal of compensation and the politicians promises.” 

“When we tell them about the importance of the newly created wetlands, the response we get is ‘If so why can’t the forest department occupy the area and pay for the loss we incurred’. But you know about the Administration’s paper works, approval from the Ministry …,” the field staff adds.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands has always been a destination for nature lovers, with its rich, unique and mesmerising flora & fauna. The new wetlands created by nature after tsunami has added to the charm. But is this enough, is the question we need to ask ourselves.