Port Blair, August 7 — In a landmark conservation initiative, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration has formally proposed four of the archipelago’s most iconic natural sites—including India’s only active volcano—for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The proposal is aimed at highlighting the islands’ ecological richness and securing global recognition for their fragile and extraordinary biodiversity.
At the core of the nomination is Barren Island, home to India’s only active volcano, located approximately 135 kilometers northeast of Port Blair. The island’s stark landscape—marked by black lava formations, frequent volcanic activity, and a haunting, ash-filled atmosphere—makes it one of the rarest geological phenomena in the Indian subcontinent.
Joining Barren Island in the UNESCO Bid are three other Natural Wonders
Saddle Peak, the highest point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is revered for its dense forests and endemic wildlife.
Alfred Caves, a labyrinthine network of limestone caves that shelter swiftlets, bats, and unique cave-dwelling insects.
Jolly Buoy Island, a part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, is renowned for its untouched coral reefs and crystal-clear waters.
Officials have emphasized that the nomination has been meticulously prepared by UNESCO’s criteria, supported by extensive research and documentation on the sites’ ecological, geological, and cultural significance.
“The islands represent some of the last remaining pristine ecosystems in the Indian Ocean. UNESCO recognition will ensure stronger protection measures and promote sustainable eco-tourism,” said a senior official from the Department of Environment and Forests.
The initiative has received widespread support from environmentalists and conservationists, who view it as a crucial step toward safeguarding the region’s vulnerable ecosystems, particularly in the face of mounting threats from climate change and unregulated tourism.
If approved, this would mark a historic achievement for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, placing them among the world’s most celebrated natural heritage sites. UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee is expected to evaluate the proposal in the coming year.
Also Read: Things to do in Andaman
