The campaign to save Nilgiris Tahr vehicle was flagged off by Theni Collector R.V. Shajeevana here on Thursday.
Speaking at the Government High School in Allinagaram, she said the Chief Minister launched the Save Nilgiris Tahr project in October 2023. It was important to save the animal and the role of the public was crucial in this.
Launched by the Forest, Environment and Climate Change department officials along with Arumbugal Trust, the project had gained momentum in the Western Ghats. The decline in the Tahr numbers was not a good sign and hence to protect the animal and to enhance it, the ecosystem had to be maintained well.
Keeping this in mind, the Forest department and the NGOs had been disseminating information on the need to protect the species in all possible ways. Like the Tahr, which can climb cliffs with ease, the people, especially, the younger generation, should play a pivotal role, Ms. Shajeevana said.
District Forest Officer Samartha, Project Director Ganesan, trustee Mathivanan and eco-activist Priyanka participated.
The campaign vehicle would tour habitations in Sothuparai and Manjanayakanpatti panchayats, Kurangani, Kottakudi, Lower Camp, Cumbum, and Gudalur among other educational institutions, including schools and colleges, over the next three or four days, the officials said.
