Geographical Context:
Sadas are flat-topped lateritic plateaus in the Konkan region, forming part of the Western Ghats.
Barren for most of the year, they transform during monsoons into lush biodiversity hubs.
Biodiversity Highlights:
A study (2022–2024) documented 459 plant species, of which 105 are endemic.
Fauna includes 31 reptiles, 13 amphibians, 169 bird species, and 41 mammal species.
Habitats support endangered species like the Indian flapshell turtle.
Water Conservation:
Sadas act as natural freshwater reservoirs due to their unique lateritic geology.
Villages access year-round water via stepwells, springs, and streams sustained by local conservation rituals.
Cultural and Historical Significance:
Community practices ensure waterbody hygiene and preservation.
The area is home to 10,000-year-old geoglyphs, adding archaeological importance.
Threats:
Land-use changes for orchards, residential projects, and laterite mining threaten the ecosystem.
Classified as 'wastelands,' their ecological and cultural values are often overlooked in development planning.
COMMENTS