Migratory birds add to aesthetic value of Kangla
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 24 2012: Migratory birds have just added to the aesthetic value of the historic Kangla, yet at the same time it has been turned into a short-cut thorough-fare, not for the public but exclusively for VIPs, military and the police.

In a welcome development, the two Thangapats (canal like water bodies) also known as the inner moat have become the seasonal home of migratory birds, adding to the charm of the place.

The two Thangapats, dug recently, have become seasonal home for Tingi (Lesser Whistling Teal), one of the many migratory birds which are found at Loktak lake during winter season.

The number of Tingi birds coming to the Thangapats is not very much.

Yet, Tingis seemed to be very comfortable and they have even laid eggs here.

Migratory birds at Kangla

Presence of Tingi birds and chicks inside Kangla has added to the aesthetic charm of the historic site besides providing a rare opportunity to interested visitors for bird-watching, provided they do not frighten or disturb the migratory birds.

Tingi (Lesser Whistling Teal) which are found in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam used to visit Loktak Lake in large flocks during winter season.

According to noted environmentalist Dr Kh Shamungou, Tingi species of migratory birds come to Manipur during winter season, and at times they lay eggs and hatch chicks here without returning to their native habitats.

There are records that Tingi birds used to come to Kangla as well as Raj Bhavan during the British period.

On the other hand, the beauty and historic value of this place is in danger of being compromised with Ministers, ( police and the military using this as a thorough fare.

The Tingi birds which have made their temporary home inside Kangla are being haunted throughout the day by the sounds coming from the whizzing vehicles of VIPs, military and police officers.

Even though Chief Minister Okram Ibobi has declared to prohibit 'trespassing' and movement of vehicles through Kangla, nothing has been done till date to transform the declaration into action.

The present condition of Kangla marked by noisy disturbances is not conducive for Tingi birds to make their settlement and produce young ones here, added Dr Shamungou.

As per the Kangla conceptual plan drawn up Prof Nalini Thakur, Kangla should be developed under coordinated efforts between Horticulture and Soil Conservation Department, Forest Department and Directorate of Environment with Art and Culture Department as its owner.

In line with the conceptual plan, different tree species have been planted at different spots within Kangla.

Moreover, many structures related with the history of Manipur are being repaired/renovated after hiring firms based outside the State.