Tamil Nadu Tourism Corporation to Introduce Electric Boats on Pykara Lake in Ooty
The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) has made a significant commitment to the Madras High Court, announcing that it will phase out petrol-engine boats on Pykara Lake in Ooty and replace them with vessels powered by electric motors. This move comes in response to environmental concerns raised during court proceedings regarding forest conservation in the Nilgiris region.
Court Hearing Highlights Environmental Impact of Petrol Boats
During a special bench hearing focused on forest-related matters, presided over by Justice N Sathish Kumar and Justice D Bharatha Chakravarthy, an amicus curiae appointed by the court presented compelling evidence. The submissions highlighted that the operation of boats fitted with petrol engines at Pykara Lake creates substantial noise pollution, which adversely affects the local wildlife inhabiting the surrounding forest areas.
Furthermore, the court was informed that petrol leakage from these boats contributes to the pollution of the lake water, posing a threat to the aquatic ecosystem. The bench is specifically tasked with hearing cases concerning the conservation of the Nilgiris biosphere and other forest regions within Tamil Nadu, making this issue particularly pertinent.
TTDC's Current Operations and Future Plans
In a detailed report submitted to the court, TTDC clarified the current state of boating operations on Pykara Lake. The corporation confirmed that at present, only boats with petrol-operated engines are utilized for joy rides on the lake, and no diesel-engine boats are in use. TTDC emphasized that all necessary precautionary measures have been implemented to minimize pollution from these petrol boats.
The report also stated that boat rides are not conducted inside dense forest areas, aiming to limit disturbance to sensitive wildlife habitats. However, recognizing the environmental concerns, TTDC assured the court that it will gradually reduce the use of petrol-operated boats and transition to electric motors in the future.
Balancing Tourism and Environmental Conservation
TTDC presented a pragmatic approach to the court, explaining that an abrupt halt to boating operations would disappoint tourists and result in significant revenue loss for the tourism sector in Ooty. The popular hill station attracts numerous visitors who enjoy lake activities, making boating a key component of the local tourism economy.
By opting for a phased replacement with electric boats, TTDC aims to strike a balance between maintaining tourist attractions and addressing ecological preservation. Electric motors are expected to substantially reduce both noise pollution and the risk of fuel leakage, thereby protecting wildlife and water quality.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
The Madras High Court bench recorded TTDC's submissions and assurances regarding the shift to electric boats. Following the hearing, the bench adjourned the matter by one week, allowing time for further deliberations on this and other forest conservation issues.
This development marks a proactive step towards sustainable tourism practices in Tamil Nadu's ecologically sensitive regions, aligning with broader efforts to conserve the Nilgiris biosphere.
