CHENNAI: Ancient interconnected waterways during the Chola period played a key role in preventing floods and recharging groundwater, said Soumya Swaminathan, chairperson, MSSRF, at an immersive wetlands walk organised by the foundation at Tholkappia Poonga to mark World Wetlands Day on Monday.
Nearly 50 participants, including 27 botany students from Presidency College, took part in the programme aimed at creating awareness on the ecological importance of wetlands.
During the walk, participants identified birds, insects and plants, participated in quizzes and interacted with experts who explained the critical role wetlands play in rapidly urbanising cities such as Chennai. The programme featured multiple learning stops led by wetlands director Rupesh Bhomia, scientist Utchimahali, and GIS and remote sensing expert Nagarajan.
Experts explained plant adaptations and ecosystem services such as groundwater recharge, carbon storage and biodiversity enhancement, and demonstrated salinity measurements. Interactive activities, including a bingo game, encouraged participants to explore the ecosystem closely.
“Wetlands act like sponges, absorbing excess water and reducing floods. Conserving them is a major priority as Chennai has lost many wetlands due to urbanisation,” Bhomia said.
Participants observed butterflies, birds, bats, reptiles and flowering plants. Prof Ravikumar, Presidency College, termed the initiative “valuable learning beyond the classroom”.
The foundation also announced a nationwide wetlands photo contest to further promote public awareness.
Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu Wetlands Mission celebrated the day on Monday at the Adyar Estuary to promote conservation through public participation. A nature walk and clean-up drive were organised with the support of the Chennai Forest Division and SRM Institute of Science and Technology.
Senior forest officials highlighted the role of wetlands in biodiversity conservation, flood mitigation and climate resilience. Around 100 students participated and collected 86 kg of waste, which was scientifically recycled. The programme enhanced awareness and encouraged youth involvement in wetland protection.