LDA readies for bird census on Jan 18
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, January 02 2025: The Loktak Development Authority (LDA) held a meeting on Thursday at the secretariat south block, here, under the chairmanship of LDA chairman M Asnikumar to finalise plans for an extensive bird census at Loktak Lake.

The meeting was attended by chief conservator (administration, planning & wildlife) .

L Joykumar, LDA project director Ng Sanajaoba, deputy conservator (park & sanctuaries) Amit Kaier, Bishnupur DFO W Romabai, conservation expert K Jugeshwore, Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) & Indian Bird Conservation Network (IBCN) for Manipur convenor RK Birjeet, and Wildlife Explorers Manipur president and photographer Kh Brajeshkumar, IUCN conservation practitioner Salam Rajesh, and scientific officers from LDA, Asem Bidyabusan and Ch Bidan.

The bird census, scheduled for January 18, is a collaborative effort involving the LDA, wildlife wing of the forest department, Asian Waterbird Census, and the Indian Bird Conservation Network.

In line with the principles of Citizen Science, the census aims to engage the public and scientists in gathering crucial data to support ecological research.

This year, the census is expected to cover 50 designated sites, including the Loktak Lake and its surrounding wetlands such as Takmu, Pumlenpat, Kharungpat, Ikop pat, and other key water bodies like Lamphelpat.

The meeting observed that Loktak Lake, once home to 127 waterbird species, now shelters only around 50, reflecting significant ecological shifts.

In-spite of the decline, the lake remains a critical habitat for migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia, underlining its importance as a Ramsar site.

Considering the diminishing bird populations, the meeting took note of the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this fragile ecosystem.

The meeting resolved to form a working group, comprising officials of LDA, forest and wildlife departments, and subject matter experts; formulate and implement longterm policies for avian conservation; organise a three-day orientation programme from January 10 at Sendra, Loktak Lake to train volunteers and stakeholders for the success of the census; launch public awareness campaigns in collaboration with local clubs and community organisations in order to educate the public on the ecological significance of waterbirds and the role of these species in maintaining Loktak Lake's ecological balance, etc.

In his remarks, chairman M Asnikumar appealed to dwellers in Loktak Lake and its associated wetlands, particularly the fishing communities, to refrain from activities that could disrupt or harm the migratory birds.

He urged the community to act as custodians of these rare species and contribute in restoring the ecological balance of Loktak Lake.

"These migratory birds are symbols of our ecological wealth and heritage.

I appeal to everyone to ensure their safety and avoid disturbing them.

Let us unite to protect these birds and work collectively to preserve Loktak Lake's unique ecosystem," he stated.

Widely regarded as the cradle of Manipuri civilisation, Loktak Lake holds immense cultural, ecological, and economic significance, he said and opined that the upcoming bird census would help in understanding the lake's current ecological dynamics and implementing measures to safeguard its biodiversity for future generations.

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