What is the proposed Dugong Conservation Centre in Thanjavur?

The proposed Dugong Conservation Centre is a project planned by the Forest Department in Thanjavur district, India to study and protect the endangered dugong species.

Where is the Dugong Conservation Centre planned to be located?

The centre is planned to be built in Sarabendrarajanpattinam village in Pattukottai taluk, Thanjavur district, which falls within a No-Development Zone under the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) guidelines.

What are the concerns raised about the Dugong Conservation Centre project?

Environmentalists and local activists have raised concerns that the construction of the centre and its facilities, including an interpretation centre, marine museum, and rehabilitation centre, will have a negative ecological impact on the sensitive seagrass beds, tidal rivers, and mangrove forests in the area, which are protected under the CRZ Notification.

Home / Environment / Planned Dugong Centre Faces Backlash for Violating Coastal Regulations

Planned Dugong Centre Faces Backlash for Violating Coastal Regulations

18 Oct

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Summary

Dugong conservation centre planned in No-Development Zone
Project covers 23,000 sq.m, includes research and recreational facilities
Concerns over ecological impact on sensitive seagrass beds and mangroves

Planned Dugong Centre Faces Backlash for Violating Coastal Regulations

As of October 18, 2025, a proposed International Dugong Conservation Centre in Thanjavur district, India has sparked controversy among local residents and environmental activists. The centre, planned by the Forest Department, is set to be built in Sarabendrarajanpattinam village within Pattukottai taluk.

The issue lies in the fact that the site falls within a No-Development Zone under the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) guidelines. The project, covering nearly 23,000 square meters, includes research and recreational facilities such as an interpretation centre, marine museum, open-air theatre, and rehabilitation centre. Notably, the main building is designed to resemble a dugong.

Environmental groups have raised concerns over the potential ecological impact of the construction, as many of the planned structures are located in ecologically sensitive areas like seagrass beds, tidal rivers, and intertidal forests - zones where development is highly restricted or prohibited under the CRZ Notification, 2011. Activists argue that a conservation initiative should not be built in a manner that could potentially harm the very habitats it aims to protect.

Authorities, however, maintain that the centre needs to be situated near the dugong habitat to serve its intended purpose of research and education. The Additional Chief Secretary to the Departments of Environment, Climate Change and Forests, Supriya Sahu, stated that the project will only move forward after securing all necessary clearances, including a special provision in the CRZ guidelines.

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