Star attraction at Chinnar sanctuary

A sculpture of Indian star tortoise inside the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary in Idukki.

: The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary under the Munnar Wildlife Division is known as the natural habitat of the Indian star tortoise (Geocheloneelegans).

A huge sculpture of the Indian star tortoise has been set up at the entrance of the sanctuary, on the side of the Munnar-Udumalpet road. The space inside the structure has been utilised for an eco-shop. Munnar wildlife warden G. Prasad said the sculpture would help create awareness of the turtle, and thereby help in its preservation. Tourists to Munnar are told about the importance of the sanctuary.

The seized star tortoise from various airports in recent times were released in the sanctuary.

There is also a preservation camp for the newly released ones inside the sanctuary, which is closely monitored by trained forest officials.

The sculpture was created by artist Jijo and team from Angamaly. The eco-shop will be run by the tribal women of Eechampetty settlement inside the sanctuary.

Curiously, electricity to it is connected from a pico electric turbine set up by the Department of Forest and Wildlife in the nearby waterfall.