Birds census begins in wetlands of Khunti, Ranchi and Latehar 

Ranchi, February 12: The census of Asian water birds was carried out under the Asian Waterbird Census 2022 by the Forest Department at Lalmatia Dam in Latehar district. Deputy Commissioner Abu Imran was present in the program as the chief guest. 
In the program organized by the Forest Department, mainly local water birds and migratory birds were identified and counted. Photography of birds was done by the team of Forest Department. Deputy Commissioner Latehar, Abu Imran said on this occasion that there are beautiful birds of different species besides forests, mountains, waterfalls to see in Latehar district. Migratory birds make their shelter in the water bodies of Latehar district.
The deputy commissioner said that there is a lot of potential for bird watching and eco-tourism in Latehar district. He told about the importance of birds from the point of view of the environment. At the same time, he talked about bringing awareness among the people about birds and protection of birds.  Species like Common Kingfisher, Red-naped Ibis, Open Bill Stork, Common Comorant etc. were found during the census.

The deputy commissioner announced about building a bird watching tower in Lalmatia Dam and develop eco-tourism.
The district administration also nspected the beautification work of Lalmatia Dam and also inspected the site for construction of cafeteria in Lalmatia Dam.

Asian water bird census work and education and awareness program of local Biodiversity Management Committees was organised at Latratu Dam in Karra block of Khunti. 
DC Khunti Shashi Ranjan said that in present times all of us need to be aware of forest conservation. He said that the development of the region is possible with the development of tourism.

The Deputy Commissioner said that Latratu Dam is the center of attraction of the district. Along with this, boating and other arrangements have also been ensured here to make it more attractive for tourists.

“Developing Latratu Dam not only tourism would get a boost but people would also get employment opportunities here. The district administration has appealed to the people of the area to participate in maximum numbers.

Environmentalist Indrajit Samanta’s gave information on the importance and benefits of birds as an integral part of the forest chain in the context of migratory and local birds..

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests-cum-Chief Wildlife Warden, Jharkhand and President, Jharkhand Biodiversity Board Ashish Rawat expressed views on forest conservation and environmental protection.

Similarly, presentations were made by various scholars and senior officials of the Forest Department on many important related topics. In which NK Singh, Additional Chief Conservator of Forests, Development, Jharkhand, Ranchi were involved.

The work of counting birds started at 10:00 a.m. and went on till 12:30 a.m. in the wetland of Latratu Dam. For this, birds were counted by forming separate groups and the data was prepared in the prescribed formats.

Ashish Rawat, President, Jharkhand Biodiversity Board informed that by organizing such programs in other districts also, the work of counting birds and education and public awareness is being done with the participation of Biodiversity Management Committees. This will make public awareness possible.

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During this, the Deputy Commissioner visited the reservoir and took stock of the physical condition. Instructions were given to strengthen the system for the convenience of the tourists.

Along with this, discussions were held regarding the operation of hotels and cafes etc. for employment opportunities for the local people and villagers. The district administration team did boating on the spot.

Canteen, rest room, toilet etc. have been constructed in the campus by the district administration. Along with making many artifacts in the mountains here, .
Five engine boats and five paddle boats along with safety jackets have been provided by the district administration. The youth of Dumargadi village have been sent to Goa and given training to operate the boat. So that with full care, they make the tourists safe boating in Latratu reservoir.

This reservoir, which spreads beautiful natural beauty, attracts tourists towards itself. People from Khunti, Ranchi and adjoining districts can easily reach this picnic spot spread over a risk-free and vast area. He said that development of tourist places is possible only with the cooperation of all.
Similar census was also carried out at Getalsud Dam in Ranchi.