This is second time during this year that we are inviting the attention of authorities to the sordid condition of Gharana wetland in RS Pura which is the sanctuary for nearly 20,000 birds migrating during winter from Siberian and Tundra regions flying over the Himalayas and covering more than a thousand miles in a single day. The Gharana wetland case is complicated as it has not one but several facets. Birds destroy crops; villagers shoot or scare away birds; vandals encroach on Gharana wetland; water body shrinks, and finally concerned authorities sit with folded arms to watch situation without exhibiting slightest concern. Above all, the more regrettable thing is that nobody in the Government expresses concern for how we are destroying the ecology. The spot could be developed for tourist attraction and also as attraction for bird watchers because the birds coming to it during winter months from the Siberian distances are of many species not one. It is a pleasure to see the vast flocks of birds coming to spend three months of harsh winter here at Gharana water body. The Government needs to involve Revenue, Tourism, Environment and Social Welfare departments to find a solution to the problem of the birds and the human beings. Awareness campaign is needed to educate the villagers and peasants that the species of birds have to be preserved and not destroyed. However at the same time methods have to be devised to save the standing crops from the ravages of these birds.
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