Madayipara’s deep blue flower bloom thrills tourists but faces environmental threats

Madayipara's vibrant blue blooms attract tourists and researchers, but irresponsible behavior threatens its unique biodiversity. Conservation efforts are crucial.

As the heavy rains of the Malayalam month of Karkadakam sweep through the region, Madayipara, a storehouse of biodiversity, has transformed into a mesmerising carpet of deep blue flowers. The vibrant blooms of Utricularia, along with the white flower heads of Eriocaulon and Rhamphicarpa, paint the entire plateau in stunning shades of blue, violet, and white.

Madayipara, renowned for its unique ecosystem, hosts an array of flora including the predatory plant Drosera indica, Mukutti (Biophytum sensitivum), and Vishnukranti (Evolvulus alsinoides). These blooms emerge amidst herbaceous plants such as Sopubia trifida, Lindernia, Polygala elongata, Justicia japonica, and Leucas species. Despite the relentless rain, tourists continue to flock to this natural haven.

The top of this ancient and serene laterite plateau in Kannur attracts numerous tourists and research students who come to observe and study its rich biodiversity. Madayipara is also a favoured spot for migratory birds, adding to its allure for nature enthusiasts.

The flowering season is a critical time for Madayipara’s ecosystem. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which are essential for the reproduction of many plants. Additionally, the area becomes a feasting ground for migratory birds, further enhancing its ecological significance.

Boasting around 300 different plant species, Madayipara becomes a floral treasure trove during Onam, with children travelling long distances to collect native flowers. Muhamed Jafer Palot of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), who has studied the richness of Madayipara’s flora and fauna, stated that although the hillock represents less than 0.01% of Kannur district, it harbours 58.75% of the district’s flora. The fauna recorded from the area includes 142 butterfly species, 186 bird species (including 20 reported for the first time in the state), 60 species of odonates, 24 species of reptiles, and 19 species of amphibians, including rare and endangered ones.

However, this natural beauty is under threat due to increasing encroachment and irresponsible tourist behaviour. Environmentalist K.V. Chandramgadan highlighted that visitors driving their vehicles onto the grasslands and littering the area with food waste and plastic bottles are causing significant damage. This irresponsible behaviour not only mars the pristine beauty of Madayipara but also poses a severe threat to its delicate ecosystem. The balance of flora and fauna is at risk, prompting urgent calls for better conservation efforts to protect this biodiversity hotspot.

Mr. Chandramgadan emphasised that these flowers will not bloom in a polluted environment. They require pleasant weather, unpolluted air, and water. Good rainfall is essential, and in its absence last year, the flowers did not bloom. He also noted that the Kerala High Court had directed the District Police Chief and Pazhyangadi Station House Officer to ensure the protection of the laterite hills by preventing people from entering the large landscape. However, this order was followed for a few years, but patrolling has since ceased, leading to a negative impact on the flora and fauna of the region.