Marine diversity centre to get turtle display

Mumbai: Two months after inauguration of the coastal and marine biodiversity centre, the state mangrove cell is set to expand the same by introducing a turtle information centre.

The department which received its first 24-seater boat for the sanctuary on Wednesday aims to rope in the maximum number of locals not only to generate employment but also keep it away from intruders. The cell is also expected to come up with training sessions for women in neighbouring areas. The biodiversity centre aimed at encouraging biodiversity in India, is set to have a turtle display area in one month’s time. Registration of boats that have arrived and are with the mangrove cell is pending.

The flamingo sanctuary sees flamingos from October to mid-June. Mangrove cell officials believe that the boat will not only help visitors but also officials manning the activity. Apart from the turtle display, officials are currently working on text and will be exhibiting information about whales and sharks as well.

“The main aim is to impart knowledge about our biodiversity to people,” said additional principal chief conservator of forests, N. Vasudevan. This is part of the second phase that will include marine biodiversity in the form of turtles, whales and dolphins. Moreover, the centre which has a handful of locals working will see an increase in their numbers with officials having decided to rope in even more locals.

“We will conduct training sessions for locals and encourage them to make articles that will be showcased in the souvenir shop for sale. One such training session for women is to begin in the coming week.” said Vasudevan.