Ashes of a Wetland

Raj Mohan's Image

Raj Mohan (India) provides a bird’s-eye view of the pollution problem in a marsh ecosystem.

Raj had documented the growth and burning of rubbish in this marsh for several years. Having seen the area from the ground and been concerned by the annual decrease in birds, he used a drone to see the true scale of what was happening from above.

The Pallikaranai Marsh in India is home to an abundance of wildlife, including 46 species of fish and 115 bird species, including glossy ibis and migrating flamingos. Despite being designated as a Ramsar Wetland Site of International Importance in 2022, tonnes of rubbish from the city of Chennai are dumped and burned here every day.


Behind the lens

Raj Mohan

Raj is a travel and landscape photographer based out of Chennai and currently living in Bangalore, India. His life is divided into two distinct contrasts - colourful outdoors and corporate indoors. He’s been able to travel to several parts of India exploring the landscapes and rich, diverse culture his country offers. In an attempt to show his people a different view of a familiar place, he’s developed a liking towards the aerial genre over the years due to the unique perspective it offers.

Image details

  • DJI Mavic Air 2
  • 24mm f2.8 lens
  • 1/30 at f2.8  •   ISO 110
  • Pallikaranai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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