Kondakarla Ava to Be AP's First Conservation Reserve

Visakhapatnam:The Andhra Pradesh government has approved a proposal to notify the Kondakarla Ava Wetland in Anakapalli district as a Conservation Reserve under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, making it the state's first of its kind.

The approval was conveyed through a government order on Friday after the water department gave a No Objection Certificate to the Forest Department. The clearance followed a report by the engineer-in-chief (irrigation), which also prescribed safeguards to protect irrigation and water management interests.

The initiative, led by the PCCF(wildlife), aims to conserve Kondakarla Ava, the state's second-largest natural freshwater lake after Kolleru. The wetland is recognised as an important habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.

According to the government, the conservation reserve would strengthen protection against poaching and encroachments while facilitating regulated eco-tourism that could provide livelihood opportunities for local communities.

The notification would not alter the ownership or administrative control of the water department, which will continue to manage the reservoir, feeder channels, canals, bunds, hydraulic structures and associated land.

Drinking water supply, irrigation, flood management and public safety would continue to receive priority, with conservation and tourism activities remaining subject to these requirements.

The forest department has been directed to obtain prior approval before undertaking any construction or development works. Infrastructure such as pathways, jetties and fencing that could affect the lake's hydraulic regime will require clearance from the water department.

A joint survey by the revenue department will be conducted before the formal transfer of land for conservation management. The forest department will bear the cost of boundary demarcation to prevent encroachments.

Located about 50km southwest of Visakhapatnam, Kondakarla Ava is fed by the Sarada river and Anakapalle Ava and is surrounded by agricultural fields. The lake supports irrigation, inland fisheries and the livelihoods of more than 100 fishing households using traditional palm boats.

The freshwater wetland is home to more than 123 bird species, including migratory waterfowl, 24 aquatic plant species and over 20 fish species. It also provides habitat for the vulnerable smooth-coated otter, highlighting its ecological significance.