Archive · 25 Jul 2026
Kondakarla Ava to Be AP's First Conservation Reserve
The Andhra Pradesh government has decided to make Kondakarla Ava, a large freshwater lake, a special protected area called a Conservation Reserve.
This is the first time such a designation has been given in the state.
The lake is very important for birds, plants, and fish, and it helps local people who fish there.
The government wants to protect the lake from poaching and illegal activities while also allowing some tourism that can help the local economy.
The lake will still be managed by the water department, and they will make sure that drinking water, irrigation, and flood control are still the top priorities.
The forest department will work with the local government to mark the boundaries of the protected area and prevent people from taking over the land illegally.
Kondakarla Ava Wetland in Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh, to be notified as a Conservation Reserve under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The initiative aims to conserve the wetland, which is the state's second-largest natural freshwater lake and an important habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.
The conservation reserve will strengthen protection against poaching and encroachments while facilitating regulated eco-tourism that could provide livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The notification does not alter the ownership or administrative control of the water department, which will continue to manage the reservoir and associated infrastructure.
A joint survey by the revenue department will be conducted before the formal transfer of land for conservation management, with the forest department bearing the cost of boundary demarcation.
- Who
- Andhra Pradesh government, Forest Department, Water Department
- What
- Notification of Kondakarla Ava Wetland as a Conservation Reserve
- When
- Approval conveyed through a government order on Friday
- Where
- Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh
- Why
- To conserve the wetland, protect biodiversity, and facilitate regulated eco-tourism
Conservation Priorities
Development and Livelihood Concerns
Conservation vs. Development
Conservation Priorities
The conservation reserve will strengthen protection against poaching and encroachments, ensuring the preservation of the wetland's ecological significance.
Development and Livelihood Concerns
Some local communities may have concerns about potential restrictions on traditional activities and livelihoods due to conservation measures.
Eco-Tourism Opportunities
Conservation Priorities
Regulated eco-tourism could provide livelihood opportunities for local communities while promoting conservation.
Development and Livelihood Concerns
There may be concerns about the impact of tourism on the wetland's fragile ecosystem and the potential for overdevelopment.
- Location
- Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh
- Size
- Second-largest natural freshwater lake in Andhra Pradesh
- Biodiversity
- Home to 123 bird species, 24 aquatic plant species, and over 20 fish species
- Livelihoods
- Supports over 100 fishing households using traditional palm boats
- Conservation Status
- First Conservation Reserve in Andhra Pradesh under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972