Chennai: Though water sports have not taken off in a big way in the state, boating seems to be increasingly patronised by visitors, mostly families. Taking into account the increasing footfalls at the boating yards and also the heartwarming arrival of winged visitors, the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) has plans to refurbish the Muttukadu and Mudaliarkuppam boathouses.
In addition to offering boat rides, these boating yards are soon set to transform into bird-watching spots. The Pelicans characterised by long beak and large throat pouch, have become regular visitors to the Muttukadu boathouse over the last four years and since last year the tall, pink wading birds with thick downturned bills – the Flamingos too have started frequenting this place.
The Flamingos’ slender legs, long, graceful necks and ability to fish grab the attention of onlookers.
The Flamingos’ slender legs, long, graceful necks and ability to fish grab the attention of onlookers.
These birds are prominently seen from November to February in a year and those taking a boat ride slyly slither towards the birds and settle down for a photo and video session. As bird-watching has become an added attraction here, the TTDC has proposed to establish a watch tower to facilitate the visitors to get a better view of the avian friends. A binocular is likely to be provided at the watchtowers.
Week-ends are the busiest days at the boating yards. On an average about 5,000 persons visit Muttukadu boathouse on Sundays and 2,000 on Saturdays. Besides about 800 to 1,000 persons visit the boathouse on a daily basis from 9 am to 6 pm, a senior TTDC official said.
Apart from refurbishing the existing facilities, the tourism corporation would take up a beautification drive also with the funds obtained from the Asian Development Bank. A parking lot, illumination, drinking water and sanitation facilities, among others, will also be provided in order to upgrade amenities.
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