Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: A significant meeting was held today at the office chamber of the Chairman, Loktak Development Authority (LDA), Secretariat South Block, Imphal, to finalize plans for the upcoming bird census at Loktak Lake. Chaired by Shri M. Asnikumar Singh, Chairman of LDA, the meeting brought together prominent stakeholders and conservationists, including Shri L. Joykumar Singh, IFS, Chief Conservator (Administration, Planning & Wildlife); Shri Ng. Sanajaoba Meetei, Project Director, LDA; Shri Amit Kaler, IFS, Deputy Conservator (Park & Sanctuary); Smt. W. Romabai Devi, Divisional Forest Officer, Bishnupur; Shri K. Jugeshwore Singh, Water Bird Conservationist; Shri RK Birjeet Singh, Convenor, Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) & IBCN, Manipur State; Shri Kh. Brajeshkumar, President Wildlife Explorers Manipur & renowned Water Bird Photographer; Shri Salam Rajesh, IUCN/Conservation Practitioner; Shri Asem Bidyabusan Singh, Senior Scientific Officer, LDA; and Shri Ch. Bidan Singh, Scientific Officer, LDA.
The bird census, scheduled for 18th January 2024, is a joint initiative by the LDA, the Wildlife Wing of the Forest Department, Government of Manipur, the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC), and the Indian Bird Conservation Network (IBCN). It is a testament to Citizen Science—a collaborative effort between the public and scientists aimed at enhancing scientific knowledge. This year’s census will cover 50 (fifty) strategic locations within Loktak Lake, its associated wetlands ( like Takmu, Pumlenpat, Kharungpat, Ekopat etc ) and other wetlands & water bodies like Lamphelpat etc
Loktak Lake, once home to 127 waterbird species, now supports only around 50 species due to ecological changes. Migratory birds from as far as Siberia and Central Asia arrive at Loktak annually, making it a vital stopover for many species during their migration. The dwindling numbers highlight the urgent need for conservation measures, as the presence of these birds and other ecological parameters is integral to Loktak’s designation as a Ramsar site.
Key outcomes of the meeting included the decision to:
Form a Working Group: This group will develop and implement a long-term policy for the conservation of avian species in Loktak Lake. ( it will comprising of officials from LDA, Forest & Wildlife departments & subject experts) .
Organize a Three-Day Orientation Programme: Scheduled for 10th, 11th, and 12th January at Sendra,Loktak Lake the programme aims to train volunteers and stakeholders involved in the census.
Raise Public Awareness: An awareness campaign, in collaboration with local clubs and community members, will educate the public on the importance of waterbirds-both native and migratory-and their role in Loktak’s ecosystem & it’s associated wetlands .
Chairman Shri M. Asnikumar Singh made a heartfelt appeal to the public, especially the dwellers and fishing communities of Loktak Lake and its associated wetlands, to avoid any activities that could disturb the migratory waterbirds. He urged the community to ensure the safety of these rare species and act as their protectors. “These migratory birds are a symbol of our ecological wealth and heritage. I appeal to everyone not to disturb and harm them by any means. Instead, let us unite to safeguard these birds and work towards restoring Loktak Lake’s ecological balance,” he said.
Loktak Lake, often referred to as the cradle of Manipuri civilization, is not only the state’s lifeline but also a sanctuary for biodiversity. The upcoming bird census represents a crucial step toward understanding and preserving this iconic wetland’s ecological integrity.
