Why is it in the news?
Reports of new aquaculture tanks dug inside the sanctuary despite a Supreme Court-led encroachment drive.
Category: Environment
Important Points:
● Located in West Godavari and Krishna districts, Andhra Pradesh
● Established in November 1999 under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
● Covers around 308 sq. km of wetlands and marshes
● Protects part of Kolleru Lake
● Designated Ramsar Site in 2002
● Fed by Budameru and Tammileru rivers
● Connected to Krishna and Godavari systems through 67 drains and channels
● Habitat for 150+ resident and migratory bird species
● Flora includes aquatic plants and submerged macrophytes