Erra Matti Dibbalu and Tirumala Hills UNESCO Bid
Andhra Pradesh’s Erra Matti Dibbalu (Red Sand Dunes) and the Tirumala Hills, including the Eparchaean Unconformity, were added to UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites. This inclusion marks a vital step towards global recognition and conservation of these unique natural heritage sites.
Erra Matti Dibbalu
- Erra Matti Dibbalu is a National Geo-heritage Monument near Visakhapatnam.
- It spans 1,500 acres along the coast and features red sand dunes formed by sand, silt, and clay.
- The red colour results from natural oxidation over thousands of years.
- The site displays dendritic drainage patterns and sediment layers that record sea level changes and climate shifts during the late Quaternary period.
- First studied in 1886 by British geologist William King, it is one of only three such coastal geomorphological formations worldwide.
Conservation Challenges
Despite its status, the site faces threats from tourism and filming. These activities risk damaging the fragile dunes and their geological features. Experts call for stronger conservation measures to protect the site’s integrity and ensure its preservation for future generations.
Tirumala Hills
- The Tirumala Hills in Tirupati district hold immense geological value with the Eparchaean Unconformity.
- This geological boundary shows a gap where rocks over 2.5 billion years old meet younger Proterozoic formations.
- The Natural Arch, or Silathoranam, is a rare rock formation near the Tirumala temple, estimated to be over 1.5 billion years old.
- The hills are part of the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve and Venkateswara National Park, rich in biodiversity and home to endangered species like red sanders and Jerdon’s Courser.
Relevance
The Tirumala region features dense forests, seasonal waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. It qualifies under multiple UNESCO criteria, including natural beauty, geological importance, and ecological significance. The area also holds cultural value due to the presence of the famous Tirumala temple and its surrounding heritage.
Future Prospects
Being on the Tentative List is the mandatory first step for nomination to the World Heritage List. This status reflects India’s intent to protect these sites. It encourages conservation, global recognition, potential funding, and expert support. The Erra Matti Dibbalu qualifies under tectonic and coastal system themes, while Tirumala fits under the history of Earth and evolution of life themes. The Tentative List was last updated in August 2025.
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