Tamil Nadu Designates New Biodiversity Heritage Site to Protect Flora and Fauna

Tamil Nadu, India, has declared the Kasampatty sacred grove as a Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The 4.97-hectare site, near the Alagarmalai Reserve Forest, is a vital green bridge supporting environmental balance and biodiversity. It hosts 48 plant species, 22 shrubs, 21 lianas, and 29 herbs, sheltering over 12 bird species, small mammals, reptiles, and insects. The designation, following a resolution by the Reddiyapatty Panchayat Council, aims to protect the land and ensure public access to the Veera Kovil Temple. This marks Tamil Nadu's second BHS recognition, following Arittapatti in 2022, highlighting the state's commitment to biodiversity conservation and cultural heritage preservation.