Kochi: The newly proposed international mangrove research centre at Puthuvype is expected to give an impetus to the environmental tourism in Kerala. The fisheries station of the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) would be upgraded to a research facility of international standards. The Puthuvype station is a beautiful isle sprawling over 50 acres where rare species of mangrove forests are grown and protected in their natural habitat. This area, with thick mangrove population, is the natural habitat and also the breeding and nursing ground of many species of freshwater fishes, crabs, and migratory birds.

Hundreds of international researchers reach Puthuvype to study about the mangrove forests and their habitat. This has prompted the authorities to upgrade it as an international research centre. The project would be executed without disrupting the natural ecosystem surrounding the mangrove virgin forests and also the daily life of the people in the locality. It was proposed at the national conference of scientists and researchers held at the fisheries station. The conference was inaugurated by KUFOS vice chancellor Dr A Ramachandran.

The scientists at KUFOS, Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, National Institute of Oceanography, and Kerala state Remote Sensing and Environment Center took part in the event. Dr A Ramachandran said that the project would be kicked off as soon as it is approved by the KUFOS governing council.

KUFOS registrar in charge Dr B Manojkumar, finance officer Joby George, governing council members Dr K V Thomas and K K Reghuraj, fisheries dean Dr Riji John, School of fisheries environment director Dr Subashchandran, Head of the department of aqua culture Dr K Dinesh, environmental scientists Dr V N Naik, Dr Diva Oswin Stanley, Dr Raghunanadana Menon, Dr C N Ravi Shankar, Dr Ramesh Ramachandran, Dr K Kathiresan and Dr Amba Sankar spoke at the event.