Khairagarh
The recent wetland survey has revealed the amazing biodiversity of Khairagarh. This area is not only a group of lakes and ponds, but also an important shelter of rare migratory birds, fish and precious aquatic plants. Birds come from thousands of kilometers away and stop for rest and food, which is emerging as a major biodiversity hotspot of Chhattisgarh.
The Wetland survey was organized under the aegis of Chhattisgarh Biodiversity Board and Khairagarh Forest Department. In the research, the researcher group symbol Thakur, Anjal Nigam, Amit Pandey and Ravi Pandey played an important role, while the botanical survey was done by the famous botanist Dr. Faiz Bux. Birds of 213 species were recorded in the survey, including several rare migratory birds. The common crane coming from Russia is the most special bird here, to see that bird lovers and photographers from all over the country come here.
Awareness campaign for environmental protection
Spoonbills, 90 painted stars, over 1100 migrant ducks (such as Northern Showler, Eurasian Curlue and Common Pochard) were also seen here. Rare birds like Bar-Headed Goose, Peregreen Falcon, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Sarkeer Malkoha and Gray-Headed Lapwing have also been found in these wetlands. During the survey, not only the birds were calculated, but the water quality was also examined. Awareness campaigns were conducted in schools and villages for environmental protection, so that the local people could understand the importance of the wetlands. In addition, dustbins and signboards were installed on the side of the wetlands, so that people do not spread garbage here and cleanliness remains here.
Wetlands have amazing aquatic plants and fish
Not only birds, but many amazing aquatic plants and fish are also present in these wetlands. A insect plant called utricularia was found here, which cleanses the water by eating small insects in the water. Apart from this, aquatic plants like Nazas, Velisnaria and Limanophila are the main sources of migrant ducks. Many important species of fish were also found here, of which Rohu, Katla, Pothi, Mola and Tengana are prominent. These hunters are an important part of birds’ food and helps maintain local ecosystems.
Khairagarh will be the center of attraction for tourists by connecting with eco-tourism
It is clear from this survey that if the region is linked to eco-tourism, this place can become a major attraction for bird lovers, researchers and tourists. For this, the participation of the local community will be very important. If the villagers are made aware of the importance of this region and connected with tourism, then they themselves will be motivated to come forward and protect this natural heritage. This Wetland survey of Khairagarh not only reveals the biodiversity here, but also reminds us of the responsibility of saving these precious treasures of nature. If these wetlands are preserved, then it can become the largest bird sanctuary in Chhattisgarh in the coming years.