Okhla Bird Sanctuary Drained, Threatening Migratory Birds’ Survival

Why in the News ?

The Uttar Pradesh irrigation department drained water from Okhla Bird Sanctuary for barrage gate repairs, leaving the wetland dry. This has disrupted migratory birds, forcing them to leave early or find alternative feeding grounds, sparking environmental concerns.

Okhla Bird Sanctuary Drained, Threatening Migratory Birds' Survival

Impact on Migratory Birds:

  • Okhla Bird Sanctuary, an Important Bird Area (IBA) along the Yamuna, is a crucial stopover for over 20,000 birds from 70+ species during migration.
  • The Uttar Pradesh irrigation department drained water from the sanctuary for barrage gate repairs, leaving the wetland dry.
  • Birdwatchers reported missing migratory birds like wigeons, garganeys, pochards, and tufted ducks.
  • March-April is critical for migratory birds preparing to breed, and the sudden loss of water forces them to migrate early or find alternative feeding grounds.

Forest Department and Expert Concerns

  • The district forest officer, PK Srivastava, criticized the decision, stating no consultation was done before draining the water.
  • He demanded an inquiry, highlighting that migratory birds arrive in October and leave by March, requiring stable water levels.
  • Experts, including Ashok Kumar, suggested that repairs should take place during monsoon (August-September) when birds are less dependent on the sanctuary’s water.
  • Birders claim repeated water drainage incidents have reduced bird populations at Okhla over the years.

Irrigation Department’s Justification

  • The irrigation department argued that repairs were necessary to ensure sufficient water supply for the summer.
  • Executive Engineer DK Singh assured that water would be restored by March 26.
  • However, birders remain unimpressed, emphasizing the immediate negative impact on migratory birds and resident species.

Okhla Bird Sanctuary – Key Facts

●      Location: Situated in Gautam Buddh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, along the Yamuna River.

●      Size: Spans 4 sq. km, offering easy accessibility for birdwatching.

●      Bird Diversity: Home to 300+ bird species, including both resident and migratory birds.

●      Central Asian Flyway: A crucial stopover for migratory birds.

●      Key Features: Includes Okhla Barrage Lake, marshes, and wetlands.

●      Flora: Aquatic plants (lotus, water lilies), marshland vegetation (reeds, cattails), riparian trees (Banyan, Neem), grasses.

●      Fauna: Hosts ducks, geese, waders, and other migratory species.

●      Threats: Urbanization, pollution, and habitat degradation.