What happened to the 'Tharuvaikulam Ecotourism' project?

The 'Tharuvaikulam Ecotourism' project, launched by the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust (GOMBRT) in 2022 to showcase the region's coral reefs and marine life, has now fallen into disrepair due to poor management and lack of promotion.

How did the local community in Tharuvaikulam benefit from the ecotourism project?

The local community in Tharuvaikulam had expected the ecotourism project to provide them with livelihood opportunities, but the project's failure has left them without the promised benefits.

What is the current state of the Tharuvaikulam ecotourism complex?

The once-thriving ecotourism complex in Tharuvaikulam is now in a state of disrepair, with the wooden jetty, boats, and other infrastructure in a dilapidated condition. A sparrow couple has even made its home in the defunct electricity meter of the complex.

Home / Environment / Abandoned Ecotourism Project Becomes Sparrow's Nest in Tharuvaikulam

Abandoned Ecotourism Project Becomes Sparrow's Nest in Tharuvaikulam

9 Nov

•

Summary

Sparrow couple builds nest in defunct electricity meter of crumbling ecotourism complex
Ecotourism project aimed to attract tourists to Tharuvaikulam's coral reefs and marine life
Project failed due to poor management and lack of promotion, leaving locals without livelihood

Abandoned Ecotourism Project Becomes Sparrow's Nest in Tharuvaikulam

As of November 9th, 2025, a sparrow couple has taken up residence in the defunct electricity meter of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust's (GOMBRT) rapidly crumbling ecotourism complex on Tharuvaikulam beach. The birds have likely chosen this spot as no one would be visiting to disturb them.

Just a few years ago, in 2022, the GOMBRT had hand-picked Tharuvaikulam for its 'Tharuvaikulam Community-based Ecotourism Project' to attract tourists to the coastal hamlet. The highlight of the venture was taking visitors in glass-bottomed boats to see the nearby Kasuvari Island's coral reefs and marine life, which was not available elsewhere in the region. The project also offered snorkeling and scuba diving experiences.