Thondi Beach — Attraction in Tamil Nadu

Thondi Beach, located along the Palk Bay on the southeast coast of India, is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and serves as a hub for various socio-economic activities, including agriculture, aquaculture, and fishing. The beach is also home to the Department of Oceanography and Coastal Area Studies of Alagappa University, established in 1998. This department is unique in Tamil Nadu, focusing on marine research and technology. Situated on a 13-acre satellite campus approximately 60 km from the main campus, it boasts facilities such as a boat landing jetty, supporting extensive marine studies.

The department's mission encompasses increasing scientific knowledge for research development, sustainable management and protection of marine and coastal ecosystems, providing alternative livelihoods for fisherwomen, and enhancing marine biodiversity. The faculty comprises experts in various fields, including geological, physical, chemical, and biological oceanography, marine biotechnology, marine microbiology, and marine pharmacology.

Research at Thondi Beach has highlighted environmental challenges, particularly concerning marine debris. A study focusing on the abundance, distribution, and status of marine debris along the Thondi coast revealed that plastics constitute approximately 77.49% of the debris, followed by cigarette butts (10.15%), cotton swabs (8.62%), and food containers (3.73%). The Clean-Coast Index (CCI) ranged from 4.25 (clean) to 20.4 (extremely dirty), with a mean of 8.92, indicating moderate pollution levels. The study emphasized the need for effective waste management, plastic recycling, and stringent penalties for illegal waste dumping to mitigate pollution.

In summary, Thondi Beach is a site of significant ecological and academic importance. The Department of Oceanography and Coastal Area Studies at Alagappa University plays a crucial role in advancing marine science and promoting sustainable practices...

Do not waste time visiting this place assuming that this is a tourist spot as indicated in many maps of Tamil Nadu. The so-called beach is not a beach. Sea is next to the shore road and littered with all kinds of bottles, plastic and torn fishing nets. The sea bridge is dilapidated and closed. You can only see the sea and hundreds of motor boards parked...

Thondi Beach offers a serene escape with its untouched beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Its pristine shores, clear waters, and gentle waves create an idyllic setting for relaxation. Visitors praise the unspoiled natural charm, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat off the...