As many as three teams comprising four to five forest officials, ornithologists, wildlife experts each have been deployed in the census in five ranges of the national park.
The head counting exercise is scheduled to continue till September 12.
At present however, the census activity has been affected due to the heavy rain inflicted by the low pressure system in Bay of Bengal.
As per the census team, the enumeration drive will continue for two to three days more.
The census will be carried out at Laxmi Prasad, Durga Prasad and Mathaadia areas of Bhitarakanika.
The number of local birds of different species like open billstork, little cormorant, intermediate egret, purpole heron, darter will be counted this year during the census.
Notably, 1,08,639 numbers of birds including 45,656 adult birds and 62,983 chicks were spotted in the park last year during the monsoon.
The national park has been closed for tourists and visitors for the census activity in water bodies inside and outside the wildlife sanctuary.
The Forest department has put all arrangements in place to welcome back tourists after such a long time. Rajnagar DFO Yagnadatt Pati said efforts have been made to ensure that the national park remains plastic-free.
Visitor gathering places like crocodile nursery, selfie point, restaurants, battery-operated boats, cottages for lodging and museum have been prepared for visitors.
Tourists interested to visit the national park can do so on water route from Gupti, Khola and Chandbali. People can also board vehicles to enter the national park through main gate from Dangamal on land route.
The park authorities have urged people to ensure mask-wearing and other Covid guidelines with strictness.
Bhitarkanika National Park was shut down from May 1 to July 31 to make way for crocodiles to lay eggs.
A Ramsar site and wetland of international importance, Bhitarkanika is home to a large variety of wildlife including saltwater crocodiles.
It homes about 70 percent of estuarine crocodiles in the entire country and also is a welcome roosting ground for migratory winged species.
The move was welcomed by an environmentalist, who elucidated that the sound of mechanised boats disturbs the serenity of the place, and distracts the saltwater crocodiles and other wild animals.
Tourists can make use of the paid services of the eco-friendly boat, which will make continuous trips in the water bodies of the country's second-largest mangrove ecosystem.
The pollution-free state-of-the-art boat, was procured at the cost of Rs 23 lakh. It can carry eight people, according to the official.
"We'll use this boat on an experimental basis for two months, following which more such boats would be purchased," Divisional Forest Officer, J D Pati said.
The Forest Department had introduced solar-powered three-wheelers in the park earlier for tourists to move around.
Green activist Hemant Rout said it was high time that the authorities motivate private boat operators to use noiseless boats in the water bodies of the sanctuary.
"The mechanised boats should be withdrawn in a phased manner," Rout added.
The wildlife sanctuary, which is essentially a network of creeks and canals, is home to the largest congregation of the endangered saltwater crocodiles in the country, according to Odisha Tourism.
The Gahirmatha beach, which forms the boundary of the sanctuary in the east, is the largest colony of the olive ridley turtles, according to its website.
Rajnagar Mangrove (Wildlife) Divisional Forest Officer J D Pati said that the albino crocodile was sighted in the hatchery and rearing complex of crocodiles at Dangmal in the national park.
Forest personnel have named it 'Sweta'. The national park is now home to three captive albino crocodiles. The three-year-old female crocodile was born in the hatchery from the eggs collected from the wild, he said.
"During my visit to the hatchery on Wednesday, I discovered this albino crocodile and advised the forest personnel to take proper care of this whitish-coloured crocodile," researcher Sudhakar Kar said.
It takes some years for the whitish complexion of an albino crocodile to develop, he said.
Although albino estuarine crocodiles are rare, they have been spotted in the wild in Bhitarkanika.
"During the census last year, we counted 1,768 crocodiles, including 15 albino reptiles, in the rivers, creeks and other water bodies of Bhitarkanika," Kar said.
Forty-year-old 'Gori', hatched and bred by the Forest Department in 1975 as a part of a crocodile conservation programme, was the first albino crocodile spotted in Bhitarkanika.
It had hogged the spotlight over the years for its typical behavioural instinct. Living in captivity since its birth in the national park, the animal continues to shun mating habits.
It had rejected companionship on several occasions in the past. In 2005, another albino crocodile 'Malli' was also born in the hatchery.
Mass nesting is one of nature’s rare events and I have been lucky to see this many times. Words fail to describe the wonderful sight of thousands of turtles heaving themselves up on the silvery beach to dig pits in the soft sand to lay their eggs. Like some self programmed toys, they follow one after the other and soon the entire beach is full of turtles without even space for putting your foot.
The next event is the hatching of the baby turtles which is a synchronized happening as thousands of nests hatch approximately during a period of 3- 4 days. In the evening, the little ones clamber outside the nest and race towards the sea. They have to go fast since hungry predators lurk to devour them if they expose themselves too much.
However, all is not well with the Ridleys of Odisha. Thousands die every year due to illegal fishing by trawlers in prohibited turtle congregation zones. Since the last 20 years, at least 1,80,000 dead turtles have been counted on the beaches of the state. Even now at least 5,000 to 6,000 turtles perish every season which is a shame! I hope the government works harder to arrest these annual turtle deaths.
The breeding adult population is dying and if this is not checked there will be a sudden population crash after 5-7 years. Olive Ridleys have an extremely poor survival rate since only 1 out of every 1000 eggs laid hatches and grows up into an adult turtle and therefore protection of the breeding population is critical.
Let us not forget that the state is also home to many other species of wildlife thanks to the wide diversity of natural habitats which we have. To protect this invaluable wildlife wealth, the state government has declared 22 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks. The latest wildlife Sanctuary to be notified was Kapilash WLS in 2012 covering a small area of 125 sq kms in Dhenkanal district. The keystone species in this Sanctuary is the Indian Giant Squirrel which is a lovely creature to behold at Kapilash Temple area. These cute squirrels have a beautiful maroon coat and are truly a delightful sight as they frolic on tree tops, jumping from branch to branch!
The world famous Bhitarkanika mangroves forests are home to some of the world’s largest crocodiles. The salt water crocodiles are found here in large numbers and the latest estimate puts them at 1,600 odd. However, more than half are juveniles who may not survive when they grow up. Beware of the salties! During nesting they can be quite nasty. The cold season is the best time to sight them. Take a country boat and enter the narrow creeks of Bhitarkanika and you will find these lovable giants lounging on the mud banks basking in the winter sun. We have the record of largest crocodile in the world having lived in Bhitarkanika which was shot by the erstwhile king of Kanika.
Chilika is Asia’s largest brackish water lake spread across 900 sq kms approximately. Bird watching is an unforgettable experience which no one should miss. Just hire a boat and sail to Nalabana, the bird paradise which will transport you to another world. The only sound reflected over the tranquil waters of the lake is the joyful twitter of waterfowl as they bask in the pale morning sun. You shall be bedazzled by their myriad colours as they dive and feed in the lake waters. Chilika hosts nearly a million migratory waterfowl every year. They belong to nearly 260 species.
However, the lake is also world famous for another rare creature, the Irrawady dolphins. This endangered creature with a total estimated population of about 150 is easily sighted in this lake. Irrawady Dolphins are small dolphins found in river mouth and near shore sea waters. These dolphins stay in small family groups and love to gambol in the lake waters. They are quite friendly and sometimes come close to the boats. It is a wonderful sight to see the watchful mother closely guarding her calf and teaching her how to catch the lake fish.
Songkhla Lake in Thailand is the only other place in the world which has a lake population of dolphins. No wonder, many foreign cetacean researchers and lovers are attracted to this lake. However, the rampant growth of dolphin tourism, use of new types of fishing nets, proliferation of shrimp farms is now threatening this population.
As you travel inland in the forested hills and valleys you will encounter a wide variety of forest animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, sambhar, deer, etc. The state has nearly 1,960 elephants and at least 25 tigers. Unfortunately, tigers are sharply declining in numbers in the state. It is a matter of time before we shall see them disappear as populations fall below unviable numbers!
Satkosia Tiger Reserve used to have about twelve tigers when it was notified in 2007 but now the population has crashed to one. Satkosia has a good elephant population and is part of a bigger forest area stretching from Badamba-Narsinghpur to Rairakhol forests. This huge area of more than 5,000 sq kms enables the wildlife to migrate and spill over thereby providing them a big natural habitat for feeding and breeding.
The river Mahanadi courses through the deep Satkosia Gorge. Never miss a boat ride in the Mahanadi. It is a mind boggling experience floating down this 22 kms stretch of Mahandi from Binka to Kamaladiha! The steep hill slopes dip into the river on both sides and you are shadowed by the high hills as you sail down the tranquil waters of Mahanadi. Both species of crocodiles i.e., the gharial and the mugger are sighted here though the gharials are very small in number. You can also sight river turtles basking on the banks of the river.
Short sighted harmful tourism ventures have been unfortunately promoted by the forest department. They have set up a tourist resort on the Mahanadi river bed near Badmul which is illegal since they disturb endangered wildlife such as crocodiles and turtles which use the sand banks for basking and nesting. Besides, wastes would invariably pollute the crystal clear waters of Mahanadi river. I wonder how guardians of wildlife can think of such imbecilic projects!
Simlipal Tiger Reserve is spread over nearly 2,800 sq kms in the district of Mayurbhanj. It has wonderful rest houses dating from the Mayurbhanj Maharaja’s time dotting the wide expanse of the park. Simlipal is a water rich area and you will be amazed by the huge number of streams which flow perennially in this area. There are wonderful water falls at Joranda and Barheipani. Simlipal is a treasure house of orchids and more than 90 varieties have been listed here. You will find a profusion of orchids flowering during spring and early summer. Their attractively coloured flowers look like precious jewels stuck high on the tree branches. Elephants are in abundance in this park. The count is nearly 500 though most tuskers are gone thanks to rampant poaching in the Tiger Reserve. In 2010, wildlife lovers were shocked to learn that at least 15 elephants had been killed inside the Park. Even now it is difficult to see mature tuskers in the Park which indicates the havoc wreaked by poachers because of lack of protection of these mammals.
Simlipal is a paradise for bird watchers since you find many forest species like crested tree swift, red spur fowl, black shouldered kite, crested serpent eagle, brown fish owl, and hill myna. In fact, the place is famous for hill myna and once upon a time, the forest department used to run a thriving business, catching the chicks from the tall sal trees and rearing them at Jashipur. They used to be exported in large numbers to foreign countries where a huge demand existed since the hill myna is a talking bird and can closely mimic human voice.
I must warn visitors to Simlipal not to allow the tiger to lurk around every corner you drive through. Though the Park is well known for its tigers, their numbers have fallen drastically during the last decade and latest census by the Government of India reveals a population of around 20 currently down from 101 in 2006! Their prey base is under attack due to regular poaching and hence you will rarely see sambar or deer in the Park unless you watch a salt lick near the forest beats where the animals feel safe.
Another wonderful place to visit in Odisha is Barbara forests near Balugaon. This place is about 150 kms from Bhubaneswar and was protected by the CRPF who have now left. It has a wonderful population of bison and sambhar which you can see when you drive to Mahisagoth or Rajin hill road. Birds like Indian pied hornbill, yellow billed blue magpie, fantail flycatchers are also found here. Three frogs new to science have been discovered here thanks to the untiring efforts of noted herpetologist Prof. S.K. Dutta. I must mention with a blush that I was too a part of the survey team in 2001 when we surveyed the forest streams for new frog species!
The blue green waters of Mahanadi river are a wonderful habitat for fresh water turtles which have disappeared from most rivers in India due to large scale poaching. One can see Chitra Indica, Gangeticus, Hurum species in this river. Some of the fresh water turtles can grow upto 70 kgs. Due to efforts of local communities, poaching is now controlled to a large extent and in fact at some locations close to Cuttack city the turtle population has recovered leading to an unwanted consequence! Turtles have started damaging the fishing nets and fishermen are now clamouring for compensation!
The rolling grasslands and scrub forests of Bhetnoi–Balipadar in Ganjam district are famous for its herds of black buck whose population has jumped since the last one decade. Locals revere the animals and protect them even when they raid their crop fields. One can see black buck foraging quite close to the Aska-Buguda main road. The area has wonderful rocky outcrops which look quite attractive in the dry landscape. The place is about 170 kms from Bhubaneswar. This is a must visit spot for wildlife lovers and is a glaring example of how community support helps in growth of wildlife. The black bucks have now spread to other nearby areas and are seen even near Rambha and Khallikote. This is one huge success story of conservation for Odisha!
Odisha’s incredible wildlife wealth needs to be preserved for the future so that our children become true inheritors of this state’s natural heritage. We should keep a careful and close watch on the state of our wildlife sanctuaries to ensure that its wildlife is safe and well protected. We should be conscientious about our treasure trove which needs to be constantly protected against foolish development projects that threaten their habitat and food.
(This is an opinion piece. The views expressed are the author’s own and have nothing to do with OTV’s charter or views. OTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same. The author is a conservationist and a former member of the National Board for Wildlife. He can be reached at kachhapa@gmail.com)
As per the week-long avian head count exercise conducted from August 23, as many as 108639 birds have been sighted in the famous national park this year as against 97866 birds spotted in 2020 monsoon season.
This year, the direct count method employed for the bird counting showed a rise of around 10773 birds in the national park. At least 22828 nests were sighted during the enumeration exercise, said Bhitarkanika DFO Jagyadutta Pati.
Maximum number of birds were witnessed at three locations, Matha Dia, Laxmiprasad Dia and Durga Prasad Dia, said the DFO.
Abundant fish in the river and creeks besides less human interference and good climate makes the park a congenial breeding place for the birds.
Every year, local migrant birds Kaparkhai, Anjana, Rani Baga, Panikua, Gendalia and Khaira from several parts of Odisha and outside flock the national park during the monsoon to roost and feed making it one of the most prominent heronries of the state.
These birds generally build nests on Guan, Bani, and Kerua trees in the region.
Monsoon birds that arrive at the national park return with babies to their homes by the end of October every year before winter migratory birds from northern countries like Russia, Central Asia, Ladakh, and Himalayas land in the national park in November.
Sources said that the two teams comprise seven members each, including forest officials, wildlife enthusiasts and ornithologists. Some species of birds like Kaparkhai, Anjana, Rani Baga, Panikua, Gendalia and Khaira are known to flock the national park during the monsoon to breed during the favourable weather condition.
These birds generally build nests on Guan, Bani, and Kerua trees in the region. Meanwhile, in addition to the aforementioned bird species, birds from far-off places across the country and outside are also known to flock the mangrove forest and National park.
Matha Adia, Laxmiprasad Dia, Durgaprasad Dia and Baga Gahana are some of the areas where the migratory birds use to flock. Birds that arrive at the National Park during monsoon season, return back home with off springs by the end of October every year.
Every year before the winter migratory birds from northern countries like Russia, Central Asia, Himalayas and Ladakh arrive to Bhitarkanika to breed in November.
The incident took place while Basant Kumar Parida, a cattle-rearer of Srirampur village near Pattamundai was grazing cattle near the river. He had gone to the water body for a wash after attending nature’s call, an eyewitness said.
“I was grazing cattle nearby while he went to the river for a wash. The crocodile suddenly emerged out of knee-length water, clamped its jaws and dragged him into the water swiftly,” said a fellow herder of Basant.
“Hearing his scream, I immediately ran to the spot but could not rescue him as the reptile had already yanked him into the deep water by the time I reached there. Locals also rushed to the spot after I raised an alarm. We informed about the incident to the fire services personnel soon,” he added.
Till the last report came in, the fire personnel with the help of locals and forest department staff were searching river water to trace the missing person.
Locals of the Brahmani riverside villages in Pattamundai and Rajkanika blocks of Kendrapara often allege that they spot crocodiles in the region mostly due to presence of Bhitarkanika National park in the vicinity.
Forest personnel are of the view that people are exposing themselves to the reptile attacks by carelessly entering rivers, creeks and other water bodies near Bhitarkanika and its nearby areas which are infested with crocodiles.
But locals are mostly found disregarding the precautionary warnings given by the forest department.
Several riverside spots have been identified as danger zones because of frequent sighting of reptiles in these places.
The forest officials have also erected barricades with alert signages in several spots near Bhitarkanika to warn people not to venture outside the permission zones to prevent man-crocodile conflicts.
The official informed that preparations are underway for the census which is conducted every year."Bird census is conducted every year. On January 4, we have a census in Chilika for which preparations are underway. The tentative estimate for this year is nearly 8 lakh birds and there are 130 species of birds," Tripathy said.
While as many as 14 camps have been established in Chilika, special protection camps are being set up in Bhitarkanika, Puri, Chandaka and Sambalpur area.
The Chief Wildlife Warden informed that a census for Olive Ridley turtles will also be done along with an estimation of crocodile population between January 6 and 14 followed by the dolphin census on January 19.
"The little green heron is generally sighted at Bhitarkanika. We have traced that bird for the first time near Devi River,” said ornithologist Dr Gohar Abedin.
As many as 25 teams were constituted to participate in the census for the head count of birds. “We have sighted many species this year. Sea beach area, mangroves and other water bodies in the district have been covered. Over 55 species have been sighted in Brahmagiri and 27 species of winged guests have been traced in Devi river bed. We will soon compile the data to find out the exact figure," DFO Harshavardhan Udgata said.
A total 30,000 species of birds were found in coastal areas last year. However, there is a drop in the number this year, forest officials stated.
Similarly, over 12,000 species of birds including some foreign birds were traced along Astarang coast last year while this year only 10,746 country and foreign birds have been identified, the officials added.
This year as many as 7129 mammals have been spotted in the national park which comprises core area of 145 square kilometre of the Bhitarkanika Wild Sanctuary, along with mangrove cover, Gahirmatha Beach and Marine Sanctuary. Last year the count stood at 6122.
According to Rajnagar Divisional Forest Officer, Bimal Prasanna Acharya, the mammal census was carried out in five forest ranges - Kanika, Rajnagar, Mahakalapada, Gahirmatha and Kujanga wildlife Range over a period of three days from November 21.
Deer and boars apart, the national park is home to nearly 1200 species of mammals.
The census break up revealed that as many as 3184 Chittals (spotted deer), 1660 wild pigs (boar), 1819 Rhesus Macaques, 15 Common Langurs, 224 jackals , 28 fishing cats , 8 Hyenas, 113 Otters, 14 jungle cats, 14 mongooses, 28 foxes, 16 Hares, 2 leopard cats,4 porcupines have been spotted within the national park. The population of wild pigs and monkeys has increased during the last year, however the number of deer and hyenas has dropped in comparison to last year's figures, the survey report stated.
Also Read: Winged guests flock Chilika
The survey reports also showed that a majority of the mammals were sighted in Kanika Wildlife Range. While Hares and Foxes were spotted only at Kujanga forest, mammals like Leopard and Porcupines were found only under Kanika Wildlife Range.
This is the fourth successive year of the annual count being carried out in the national park.
According to the officials, the census took the count from a total of 21956 nests in the national park.
A team was formed constituting the forest personnel of Rajnagar Forest Range to monitor Bagagahana, Mathaadia and other areas of the park to record the number of country birds, sources said.
Last year the bird count was recorded at 1,03,853 with 637 more birds counted this year in the national park, informed Rajnagar Forest Range officer Harekrushna Mallick.
"A total of 46847 birds were found in 9761 nests in Bagagahana, while Mathaadia recorded 12195 nests with 57683 birds. Among all the country birds, maximum number of Asian Openbills were found," he added.
A record number of 80 nesting sites of Estuarine Crocodiles were spotted in the national park in Kendrapara district this year during the annual breeding, forest officials said.
The hatching process which started on Wednesday would continue for next six to seven days.
The national park was closed for three months from May 1 in view of breeding season of the saltwater Crocodiles. During this time Female Crocodiles lay 50 to 60 eggs and the hatchlings usually emerge from the nests after 70 to 80 days of incubation period.
The number of salt water crocodiles, the species which is not found in any other river system in Odisha, as per the latest census, stood at 1,682 in the wildlife sanctuary area present inside the national park.
The 145-sq.km Bhitarkanika National Park, with its vast expanse of mangrove cover and wetland spots, is an ideal ecotourism destination for camping, trekking and picnics.
The major attractions are its saltwater crocodiles along with resident and migrant avian species and huge varieties of mangrove species.
According to reports, the barrier and wire net set up by forest department is not capable to check the entry of the crocodiles. The barriers at many bathing ghats have broken due to which there is a rise in human-crocodile encounters.
"The villagers use river water for their daily chores but there is no security as the barrier has damaged and crocodiles are spotted regularly," said a villager, Bhakta Nayak.
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Forest department had constructed more than 59 bathing ghats in the area for the benefit of the people. But Divisional Forest Officer of Rajnagar has also agreed that the bathing ghats have dilapidated in absence of required maintenance.
Talking to OTV, DFO Rajnagar Bimal Prasanna Acharya said, "Nearly 50 bathing ghats have been constructed and there is scope for construction of more. We are conducting awareness programme regularly so that people will be safe from the attacks. The lifetime of the bathing ghats is three to five years which can be extended if the locals maintain it."
Later the villagers discovered Rabinarayan’s body from the river bed.
According to sources, the family members of the deceased have demanded compensation from the government.
“My father went to the fields to check water level. When he was late to return we went out in search and found that a crocodile has dragged him inside the river and tossing him in and out of water. By the time we intervened, he was no more,” said deceased’s son, Rajesh Behera.
“The place where the attack happened comes under the Bhitarkanika wildlife range and the staffs have been asked to go to the spot. The family of the deceased will be given ex gratia as per the guidelines and we will facilitate the process through which the kin receive the assistance soon,” said Rajkanika DFO, Bimal Prasanna Acharya.
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Crocodile attacks on humans are prevalent in rivers like Baitarini, Brahmani, Kani, Kharashrota of the district. Even reports of crocodile entering villages and attacking humans have been reported.
Recently, a six-year-old girl was attacked by the reptile in a village inside the Bhitarkanika National park, but was fortunate to escape due to the courage of her seven-year-old sister who fought and warded off the animal.
Forest officials spotted the carcass of the slain crocodile near a water body in the village yesterday.
The carcass bore multiple injury marks and it was probably caught in the fishing net, said forest officials.
Also Read: Croc population on rise in Bhitarkanika
The estuarine crocodile has been accorded protected status under wildlife legal provisions, they said.
"A case under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 has been registered. The reptile's body has been sent for post-mortem.
From the injury marks, it is quite apparent that the reptile had fallen prey to man-animal conflict," said Mahakalpada Forest Range Officer, Bijoy Kumar Parida.
Since the last 18 months, seven adult and sub-adult salt-water crocodiles have died after trespassing in human habitations, forest officials said.
The species are itinerant in nature and stray into adjoining water-bodies because of its increase in hyper-salinity contents, they said adding, after a temporary sojourn, they leave for their permanent habitation within the Bhitarkanika habitation corridors.
The annual enumeration, which ended on Wednesday, has put the head-count at 1,682. The census witnessed more 11 crocodiles this time. Last year, the crocodile population in the national park was pegged at 1,671.
The authorities of Bhitarkanika Wildife Sanctuary, home to the largest population of estuarine crocodiles, had carried out the head count operation from January 2 to 8 in the creeks, rivers and water bodies located across the four ranges which include Kanika, Rajnagar, Mahakalpada and Gahirmatha.
As many as 1,303 crocodiles were sighted at Kanika rangeby the census teams.
Talking to newsmen, Acharya said, “Crocodiles don’t come to land due to movement of boats. So, restriction on movement of boats will be imposed on January 2 and 3.”
“Counting of crocodiles will begin from January 4. The census will be conducted at Mahakalapada, Kanila, Gahiramatha and Patasala and Bhitarakanika area in Rajnagar range,” Acharya informed.
According to reports, a six-member team of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) will visit the eco-system on Friday to assess various aspects of the sanctuary for its inclusion in the world heritage list.
The delegation will evaluate different aspects relating to protection, conservation, bio-diversity, inclusiveness of the area, people's participation, tourism potential, livelihood of the people, environmental quality and make recommendations to the World Union for its inclusion, sources added.
Prior to visit to Bhitarkanika, the team consisting of eco-spot experts, wild life scientists and environment specialists yesterday hold discussions with senior officials of the State at a high -level meeting chaired Chief Secretary Aditya Prasad Padhi at State Secretariat here.
Also read: Bird count rises in Bhitarkanika
Among others, principal secretary forest and environment Suresh Chandra Mohapatra and chief wildlife warden Sidhant Das were also present during the meeting.
Briefing newsmen, Suresh Chandra Mohapatra, said, “The team has given world heritage tag to seven sites so far. If Bhitarkanika will be selected, they will announce it next year and it will become eighth site in India to get the tag. We are very much hopeful that the mangrove eco-system will be included in the world heritage list.”
According to sources, 42,408 birds and 61, 445 hatchlings were found in 21,204 nests in the national park during the annual census.
This monsoon, the national park witnessed footfall of more 7,416 birds as compared to 96,437 birds last year, the sources added.
According to reports, 11 species of herons, grey cranes, little cormorants and king-fisher in large numbers have thronged the national park.
Bimal Prasan Acharya, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Bhitarkanika National Park, said. “Like every year, herons in mass laid eggs at the national park. This year, many birds have laid eggs at Mathiadia area.”
“We have conducted the census at 21,204 nests in 2097 trees at the park,” Acharya added.
As many as 80 numerators divided into 18 teams conducted the head count of dolphins. Personnel of the Wildlife department, Chilika Development Authority (CDA), OUAT students and local volunteers undertook the census as per the Japanese line tracking survey. The Chilika lake was divided into four parts for the purpose.
DFO Bikash Ranjan Das said, “Earlier, the Chilika Development Authority was undertaking the dolphin census. But since last year, the process is being undertaken on the entire coast including Bhitarkanika. Apart from Irrawaddy dolphin, the headcount will include five other species.”
Sources at the Wildlife department said the number of dolphins in Chilika will be declared after the completion of census at other places.
In 2014, 142 dolphins were spotted in the Chilika lake. However, the department did not release the numbers in 2015.
A total of 1580 crocodiles were sighted in the Bhitarkanika National Park alone while 1284 were found in the Kanika range, 296 in the Rajnagar range, 69 in the Mahakalpada range and 22 in the Gahiramatha range, sources said.
In Patashalamukha, Gururapala, Manhisamada, Kuajora, Bhramaramari, Kathua, Balijor, Khola, Thanapati, Ganjeikhia and Kalibhanjapur, 32 crocodiles of length between 18 and 22 feet were found.
The crocodile census was undertaken by 26 teams in the wildlife sanctuary under chairmanship of Rajnagar DFO Bimal Prasanna Acharya.
Last year, 1665 crocodiles were spotted in the wildlife sanctuary.
Informing the media about the census here on Monday, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF) SS Srivastav said as against 7,61,940 migratory birds sighted in the lake and its periphery last year, the number has gone up substantially to 8,58,855 as per the report of the two-day bird census held in January this year.
He, however, said though the number of migratory birds has increased by 96,915 in comparison to last year, the number of species visiting Chilka this year has been less (161) compared to the last year (172).
“Of the 161 species, three new species have been sighted at Mangalajodi area of the lake,” Srivastav informed.
He said that the substantial rise in the number of migratory birds in Chilika could be due to moderate climate conditions and the half-submerged areas of Nalabana due to less rainfall this year.
Members of the Bombay Natural History Society, officials of Chilika Development Authority (CDA), Odisha University of Agriculture Technology (OUAT) and Chilika Wildlife Division were engaged in the bird census in the lake.
On the other hand, the number of migratory birds in Bhitarkanika has come down marginally.
“As per the report of the bird census conducted in the first week of January this year, about 1,06,356 birds have been sighted in Bhitarkanika, which is 6879 less compared to last year's figure of 113,226,” Bimal Prasanna Acharya, DFO of Rajnagar Wildlife Division, told the media on Monday.
He said the number of bird species sighted in the Park this year was 87 as compared to 109 species last year.
A total of 16 teams, comprising 68 forest staffs and about 25 ornithologists, were engaged in the bird census, which had begun on January 8.
In Kuladiha and Nilagiri forest range under Nilagiri wildlife division in Balasore district, about 2688 birds belonging to 15 species were found during the two-day census which concluded on Sunday.
Sridhara Lenka, Forester of Mitrapur Range, in Kuldiha range, informed that 10 forest staffs divided into five teams had conducted bird census at five places and spotted 973 birds of which 28 were spotted at Tenda, 637 at Rishia dam site, 85 at Sindhua, 168 at Khomakuta and 63 at Bogalibandh.
“Besides, four forest staffs engaged in bird census at Padmatola in Nilagiri forest range spotted about 1615 birds of 15 species,” he added.
The Forest department had also conducted bird census at 14 places including Anshupa lake and Mahanadi delta under Athagarh Forest range and Hirakud reservoir area in which 61 teams were engaged.
As per the Census report, about 95,912 birds of 60 species have been spotted in Hirakud reservoir area while 24,482 birds of 63 species have been spotted in Mahanadi delta area and Anshupa lake.
The national park would reopen for visitors on August 1, said park officials. Prohibition is being imposed in view of the breeding season of salt-water crocodiles. Human interference would disturb the breeding animals, they said.
As the reptiles often turn violent and attack intruders during breeding period, the authorities put this restriction to ensure the safety of humans and provide congenial environment to the breeding crocodiles, said Divisional Forest Officer, Rajnagar Mangrove (wildlife) Forest Division, Bimal Prasanna Acharya.
As per the latest head count of these animals, 1671 estuarine crocodiles were counted living along the Bhitarkanika s water bodies.
Keeping in view commencement of the breeding season, the Forest department is prioritising safety of local people.
Local residents need to remain watchful and vigilant. People could ensure their own safety by keeping safe distance from crocodile-infested water-bodies, Acharya said.
Crocodiles are found straying from their habitats into water bodies in and around the human settlements.
Man-crocodile conflict often reaches a flash point in peripheral villages of Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary during this period, the DFO said.
The species are itinerant in nature and stray into adjoining water-bodies because of its increase in hyper-salinity contents. After a temporary sojourn, they leave for their permanent habitation corridors within the Bhitarkanika habitation corridors, according to Forest officials.
Wildlife researchers studying on salt water crocs are of the view that habitat of these species is getting squeezed in about 26 square km of water bodies within the national park. These reptiles prefer the ideal water bodies because of its salinity contents. The salinity level in some of the water bodies might be dropping proving less ideal for crocodiles.
There was a drop in the number of winter guests this year from trans-Himalayan region who flew to Bhitarkanika wetland sites to avoid the harsh winter there.
The number of birds visiting Bhitarkanika slumped to 76,268 this year when compared to 1,06,156 last year, said Divisional Forest Officer, Bimal Prasanna Acharya.
Migratory birds fly thousands of miles to Bhitarakanika to escape the harsh winter in northern Asia and some central European countries, he said adding that the birds stayed there for four months before flying back to where they had come from.
The first flock of migratory birds usually arrive at Bhitarakanika by the second week of November. However, their arrival was delayed by a couple of weeks this year due to late arrival of winter.
A large number of birds had already flown out while others were preparing to leave, he said.
Altogether 87 species of birds had come from Siberia, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Himalayan region and central Europe have been leaving Bhitarakanika almost every day.
The bird census was conducted on January 2 by forest officials with the help of environmentalists and NGOs, he said.
Meanwhile, in Satabhaya wetlands, a large numbers of birds had gathered this winter and the forest officials guarded the birds from poachers, the forest officer said.
"We hope that more birds will arrive before the advent of winter later this year," said the forest officer.
While 'bijli-sadak-pani' are common demands in most parts of the state, people in specific pockets of coastal Kendrapara are asking whether there would be an end to their plight.
The candidates contesting right from ward member's post to that of member of zilla parishad now are facing queries from people living on fringes of wildlife-inhabited forest and crocodile-infested water-bodies.
It seems human lives are less precious than animals.
While crocodiles are unleashing terror in water-bodies and creeks, wild boar are on the rampage launching murderous attack on people. Forest officials are intent on safeguarding the safety of animals. But they never care for humans , rued Pradeep Das of Iswarpur in Rajnagar Tehsil, going to polls.
He was echoed by many others who claimed that frequent intrusions of wild animals into places of human habitation have made life miserable in forest-side villages.
Each of the water-bodies here is crocodile-infested.
Venturing into river to take bath is like risking one s life.
Last year, crocodiles claimed three persons from our area , said Radhakant Sahu, a native of Dimiripala village under Aul block.
People have stopped fishing due to croc menace.
Inland fishing is a major occupation for fishermen. Forest department doles out ex-gratia for death (Rs 2 lakh) or injury (Rs 10,000) in croc attack. The loss is permanent. The paltry compensation is cruel joke on us," a local of Deulsahi village, Rabindra Behera said.
Rare bird species of central Asian origin have been spotted in the wetland spots of the park.
Though there has been discernible drop in number of winged species this year, the marshy and swampy wetland spots in Bhitarkanika have again emerged as a congenial and human-interference-free winter habitat for feathered guests from central Asian and Himalayan region.
"As many as 76,268 winter migrant winged species were counted to have visited this year while the headcount of last year stood at 1,06,156. The number has dropped. The factors leading to fall in number are being studied by ornithologists", said Divisional Forest Officer, Bimal Prasanna Acharya.
"The drop in number is more than 30 per cent than the number recorded in 2016. In all probability, frequent depression and cyclonic weather acted as a major deterrent for birds' flight to Bhitarkanika from far off places," he said.
Despite the drop in feathered guests' number, the highlight of this year's headcount exercise was the sighting of endangered and rare bird species.
These species trans migrated from Siberia, Ladakh, Lake Mansarovar and Himalayan region. The enumerators found these species fatigued after their long flight.
"The enumerators have spotted hordes of Greater crested tern, common shell duck and blue tailed godwits. All these species come under rare and threatened category.
"This is for the first time that these species were sighted in Bhitarkanika although the number of these species sighted was less than a hundred. Their arrival was not recorded by enumerators earlier. Their flight owed its origin to Central Asian region.
"Unable to cope with extreme cold in their original habitat, the feathered species preferred these congenial wetland spots," said wildlife expert, Biswajit Mohanty, who took part in the headcount drive.
Prominent species who made Bhitarkanika their winter home are Brahmin Duck, Bar-headed Geesse, godwin, Pintail, painted stork, seagauls, commonteal, tawny eagle and osprey.
These species were spotted mainly along the wetland spots of Satabhaya, Raipatia, Agarnasi, Bhitarkanika, Hukitola, Gupti Rajagada, Batighar, Jatadhara and Kalibhanjadiha.
There is ample food security for the birds as the place crisscrossed by innumerable water inlets and nullahs is free of human interference, officials said.
Other prominent winged visitors to Bhitarkanika this time are Indian Skimmers, Grey Pelicans and White-backed vultures, Lesser adjutant, Grater spotted eagles. All of these species are conferred endangered status under International Union for Conservation for Nature (IUCN)'s Red Book Data containing the list of highly threatened animals worldwide.
These apart, other delicate and prominent birds sighted this time are Black-tailed godwit, Northern pin-tail, Lesser whistling duck, Grey plover, Egret spotted bills, Oriental darter, White belley seagull.
Also read: Bird count drops at Bhitarkanika
Unbearable cool atmospheric condition during winter months forces these migrant species to temporarily leave their original habitat. The Chilka and Bhitarkanika wetland spots in the state are the favoured destination of migratory birds.
Lack of human interference, ideal climatic condition, cool breeze and the river system here all have emerged to the liking of these delicate chirpy winged species. This itself is a positive sign and thus further research on the behavioural pattern of these threatened species is being taken up, said wildlife officials.
Birds of central Asian origin have begun arriving at the wetland spots of the national park which was recently inspected by a team of the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for its likely conferment of UNESCO's World Heritage status.
"Over 75,000 birds have already arrived. Their number would swell considerably by December end as they keep coming daily. As the wetlands in Bhitarkanika are free from human-interference, birds fly their way from cool northern hemispheres to the park in large numbers," said Divisional Forest Officer, Rajnagar Mangrove (wildlife) Forest Division, Bimal Prasanna Acharya.
The migratory birds will roost here till March end. A majority of them will fly back then to the original habitat.
Some species may stay back if cold conditions prevail.
Since the past one week, flocks of these winter guests have been crowding the Raipatia and Satabhaya water bodies and creeks.
The habitat of these birds extends around a km stretch. There is ample food for the birds as the place is crisscrossed by innumerable water inlets and nullahs, Acharya said.
Prominent among the visitors this time are Indian Skimmers, Grey Pelicans and White-backed vultures, Lesser adjutant, Grater spotted eagles. All of these sighted species are given endangered status under IUCN s Red Book Data containing the list of highly threatened animals worldwide, he said.
These apart, other delicate and prominent birds sighted this time are Black-tailed godwit, Northern pin-tail, Lesser whistling duck, Grey plover, Egret spotted bills, Oriental darter, White belley seagull and black-necked stork.
These species barring the white-backed vultures are winter migrant avian creatures from northern hemisphere and cool places like Ladakh and they used to prefer the Bhitarkanika wetland for its unique eco-system and cool and serene environment, conducive for their winter habitation, he said.
Unbearable cold during winter months forces these migrant species to temporarily leave their original habitat.
Chilka and Bhitarkanika wetlands in Odisha are favoured destination of these migratory birds, he said.
The pollution-free transport system was launched in the national park on August 1 after the internationally acclaimed wetland site, which remained out of bounds for tourists for three months, had reopened.
"It is a positive step in providing hassle-free conveyance for domestic and international tourists. However, the forest department has erred in not obtaining the technical and legal sanction while introducing battery-powered three-wheelers," said Road Transport Officer, Lacchman Sahu.
"Unauthorised plying of these vehicles infringes legal provisions of Orissa Motor Vehicle Act. Therefore, we have directed forest department to adhere to and comply mandatory legal provisions while plying the vehicles," he said.
Three e-rickshaws made operational in the national park, were yet to be registered with transport department. The vehicles have to be armed with fitness certificates and road permit issued by transport office. Besides, third-party insurance cover is a must as these vehicles would carry tourists and would be run commercially, the RTO said.
"The drivers should have driving licences as stipulated for passenger vehicles. It has come to our notice that e-rickshaws operational in the park are bereft of all these legal provision," said the official.
"It s an inadvertent slip on our part. We are initiating steps for registering the vehicles besides obtaining other requisites as stipulated by the road transport authorities", said Divisional Forest Officer, Rajnagar Mangrove (wildlife) Forest Officer, Bimal Prasanna Acharya.
Tourists, mostly elderly people, were facing hardships as there was no motorised mode of transport to cover the 2 km distance from the river jetty to rest sheds and tourist cottages inside the park. The visitors were forced to trek the distance to make their way to the park, the official said.
In view of the inconvenience, the battery operated carriage system was introduced as it had been earlier suggested by a House committee of state Assembly.
The battery operated six-seated three-wheelers are noise-free and do not emit smoke. The tourists are paying Rs 10 fare to reach the park area, he added.
"We are maintaining vigil on the eggs laid by the captive female croc. There is possibility that eggs laid by Gori may be infertile. Their fertility contents can be confirmed only if baby crocodiles emerge from them after 40 days of incubation," said forest department officials.
41-year-old Gori, hatched and bred by Odisha forest department as a part of crocodile conservation programme, was in the spotlight over the years for its typical behavioral instinct. Living in captivity since its birth in the national park, the reptile continues to shun mating habits. It had rejected companionship on several occasions in the past.
"We are glad to know that the albino species has laid eggs. Around 45 eggs have been spotted in the vicinity of the pond in the enclosure inside Dangmal crocodile research center in Bhitarkanika national park where Gori has been living for the past 41 years since its birth in 1975. But it's too early to conclude that she is on way to attain motherhood," said Divisional Forest Officer, Rajnagar Mangrove (Wildlife) Forest, Bimal Prasanna Acharya today.
Acharya said on past occasions too Gori had laid eggs but those were found to be infertile. "Our expectations had fizzled out as no baby crocodiles had emerged out of the eggshells."
The forest department would have to wait for at least 40 days of incubation period, he "If babies come out of the eggshells, it can then be said that Gori had found its male partner and mated."
The enclosed pond where the albino crocodile lives at present has been connected with natural water bodies on the periphery and her habitat given a natural ambience. She now has unhindered movement to nearby water bodies and water inlets and is slowly adapting itself to natural environs.
Possibility of a male croc in the wild intruding into the pen to mate with Gori may not be ruled out, the forest department officials said.
Gori is eight foot long and has whitish patches over her body. Mating attempts have been made at least five times in past years but she has rejected the male partner each time.
"On occasions the albino crocodile was sighted attacking male partners in contemptuous disregard to mating.
But mostly the reptile is found to be docile in nature," Acharya said.
The reptile was the mascot for National Youth Festival held in Bhubaneswar in 2010.
In response to a Right to Information application moved by green activist Biswajit Mohanty, Kendrapara district administration said 377.76 acres of government land has been taken up for illegal prawn farming in 19 human settlements within the sanctuary.
356 prawn dykes (gheries) have sprouted up in the villages coming under Rangani, Talchua, Righagarh and Gupti revenue circles of the sanctuary. Rangani village accounts for maximum encroachment with 241 gheries, officials said.
Prawn gheries have also come up in the prohibited coastal regulation zone (CRZ) territory.
Mohanty said, "Law is being repudiated while both the district administration and forest department have turned a blind eye to it."
He alleged that Provisions of CRZ, environment protection law and the Forest Conservation Act were being flouted and influential land-grabbers and prawn mafias were blatantly violating the Orissa Land Encroachment Act.
Divisional Forest Officer, Rajnagar Mangrove (wildlife) Forest Division, Bimal Prasanna Acharya claimed that Forest department wants to clear encroachment and any form of human activity within the forest area. "We have demolished gheries in the past and reclaimed the land," said.
"There will be constant watch and vigil by the department mobile squads to ensure that prawn gheries do not spurt up again," Acharya said.
Kendrapara Collector Debraj Senapati said Rajnagar tehsil officials have been directed to evict the squatters and initiate legal action against the encroachers.
The Orissa High Court had earlier ordered demolition and dismantling of all illegal prawn cultivation structures in the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary.
The winged species, which thrive on rainy season, have thronged the heronry here in thousands for their annual nesting and breeding.
"With the commencement of rainy season, the monsoon migrant species have arrived in large numbers in Bagagahana heronry for seasonal nesting. They have built nests and laid eggs atop the mangrove trees," said Bimal Prasanna Acharya, divisional forest officer, Rajnagar Mangrove (wildlife) forest division.
Their sojourn would last for three months from now after which they would start their homeward journey, the DFO said.
While the headcount of monsoon migrant birds is yet to be made, an estimated 15,000 local resident water birds too went inside the dense mangrove cover in Bagagahana.
Prominent among the species arriving here for nesting are Grey Heron, Purple Heron, Darter, Cormorant, Large Egret, Intermediary Egret and Little Egret.
The birds' habitat was spread across around four hectares. They move in and around the water bodies adding to the scenic beauty of the place crisscrossed by innumerable water inlets and nullahs is free of human interference.
Last year, 91,545 monsoon birds had thronged the heronry here for their annual sojourn and forest officials are optimistic once the headcount was made this time, the figure would go up.
Lack of human interference, ideal climatic conditions, cool breeze and the river system here all turned out to be conducive for the birds.
Noted ornithologist Dr Salim Ali had made a chance-discovery of Bhitarkanika birds habitat during a casual visit to Bhitarkanika in 1981.
The national park which is the natural habitat of crocodiles, remains closed for a period of 3 months every year as the salt water (Baula) crocodiles go through mating process during this season.
As the reptiles turn violent in this period, authorities close down the sanctuary for a brief period to ensure the safety of tourists.
"The park and sanctuary will remain closed from May 1 to July 31 due to the mating season of Baula crocodiles. We request the tourists to not book any trips to the sanctuary during this period," said Additional Conservator of Rajnagar Forest Department, Amaresh Pradhan.
Crocodiles stray from their habitats into water bodies in and around human settlements and man-crocodile conflict often reaches a flashpoint in peripheral villages of Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary during this period, informed Divisional Forest Officer, Rajnagar Mangrove (wildlife) Forest Division, Bimal Prasanna Acharya.
Bhitarkanika is said to house 70 per cent of India's estuarine or saltwater crocodiles, conservation of which was started way back in 1975.
According to Bhitarakanika National Park authorities, mammals found in the place are leopard, wild boar, jungle cat, fishing cat, hyena, sambar, striped palm squirrel, gangetic dolphin while reptiles found comprise turtles including Olive Ridley sea turtle, crocodile, lizard, water monitors, python, and king cobra. Around 166 species of birds have been spotted in the park.
Bhitarakanika is one of the richest storehouses of mangrove genes. Researchers have come across 11 of the 70 mangrove species, which were facing threat of extinction in the world, in Bhitarakanika.
(With PTI inputs)
While directing the Collectors of the convened district to execute the decision taken at the meeting chaired by State Chief Secretary recently on illegal prawn gherries, the court has also asked the authorities to destroy the seized materials and machineries from the violators apart from filing criminal cases against them.
The directive comes after hearing into a case registered suo motu by the court on the basis of Supreme Court’s order regarding protection of wetlands.
“The High Court has ordered the Collectors of the respective districts to register criminal cases against the violators in this connection. The Court had also previously ordered to file cases, but no action was taken,” Mohit Agarwal, who has been appointed as Amicus Curie in the case said.
The eviction of illegal gheries is supposed to be completed by May 2021 in Kendrapara, Ganjam and Khordha districts and by the end of this year in Puri. The illegal prawn gherries spread over around 30,000 acres of areas, he added.
The meeting which was presided over by the Chief Secretary has decided to grant necessary amount of funds from Revenue and Disaster Management department. The funds should be provided to the collectors of Kendrapara, Khordha, Ganjam and Puri. One platoon of police force will also be provided to each district during the eviction drive to maintain law and order.
It was also decided in the meeting that the eviction exercise will be videographed and Amicus curie will be briefed about the drive.
A meeting through video conference will be held on every Friday to review the progress of the work.
The meeting which will be chaired by the chief secretary will be attended by Advocate General, officials of Chilika Development Authority (CDA), Collectors and SPs of four districts.
Talking to reporters on the sidelines of State Tourism Ministers' Conference held in New Delhi on Tuesday, Patel said, “Puri and Konark are such places which cannot be ignored. There might be some problems due to some paperwork and it will be rectified soon.”
Patel’s statements would allay apprehensions of the people of Odisha as earlier there was a lot of hue and cry after none of the sites in the State found place in the Centre’s list of 17 iconic tourism sites.
Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik had written to the Union Tourism Minister seeking the inclusion of at least two important tourist places of the state in the iconic tourism sites list.
“The Konark Sun Temple, Chilika Lake, Bhitarkanika National Park, Similipal National Park and the Buddhist circuit are some of Odisha’s prominent sites. The Sum Temple was awarded the UNESCO World Heritage status in 1984. The pristine Chandrabhaga beach near Konark Temple is among India’s best beaches shortlisted for Blue Flag Certification. It makes the destination the most exotic synthesis of the contemporary luxury, traditional heritage and adventure tourism,” Patnaik had written in his letter.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MPs from Odisha and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had also requested Union Tourism Minister Prahlad Singh Patel to include the Jagannath temple in Puri and Sun Temple in Konark in the list of India’s Iconic Tourist Sites.
“The Minister has assured to include Puri, Konark and Bhitarkanika which were earlier not included in the list of iconic heritage sites,” said Odisha Tourism and Culture Minister, Jyoti Prakash Panigarhi.
The Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha along with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FICCI) will organise the mega event in Bhubaneswar.
Over 60 domestic tour operators from 19 cities of the country and 25 foreign operators from 15 countries will be participating in this year’s event. The aim is to develop new tourism projects in the State including the development of 13 existing tourist places like Puri, Konark, Bhitarkanika and Chilika.
Odisha Tourism Secretary Vishal Kumar Dev said that the tourist inflow to the State is expected to rise following development initiatives at the existing tourist sites.
“We are identifying lands in 13 major tourist destinations like Chilika, Puri, Bhitarkanika, Debrigarh, Hirakud for execution of new tourism projects including water sport activities, houseboat facilities and hotels,” said Dev.
Odisha Culture and Tourism Minister Jyoti Panigrahi said, “Odisha Tourism Bazaar is a medium to connect buyers and sellers engaged in the tourism industry. We sell travel packages to tour operators from both domestic and foreign soil.”
Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s mangrove forests are facing a threat like most of its other natural resources. There are disturbing reports about mangroves in Bhitarkanika, one of their best known habitats, being cleared to facilitate illegal prawn culture and construction activities.
Nurtured by brackish water, mangroves are a unique plant species found in the inter-tidal regions along the creeks and estuaries near the coast. Apart from playing an important role in protecting the hinterland against cyclones they stabilise the coastal land mass against sea erosion which is a major problem in our state.
Equally significant is the fact that they nourish immense bio-diversity and act as a nursery for several marine life forms including prawns, crabs, fish and molluscs. Thus, mangroves not only sustain the ecological security of the coast they also provide livelihood to thousands of people, specially fisherman inhabiting the coastal belt.
Considering that the state has already lost a lot of its mangrove cover while patches in the Mahanadi delta have been badly degraded due to rampant encroachment it is extremely important that we preserve what is left of this wealth. But that does not seem to be happening in the Bhitarkanika area with allegations flying thick and fast that forest officials have turned a blind eye to the wanton destruction of mangroves by the prawn mafia and others who have encroached and cleared large patches in parts of what is supposed to be a sanctuary.
Reports in a section of the media suggest that destruction of mangroves by the cash hungry prawn mafia in
Bhitarkanika has been so widespread that the entire region has become vulnerable to natural calamities like cyclones. This was evident from the large scale damage to the sanctuary’s flora by cyclone Bulbul that happened to only brush past the area.
One can only imagine what might have happened to the sanctuary that is home to a bewildering variety of wildlife including spotted deer, wild boar, hyena and jungle cat had Bulbul made landfall on the Odisha coast. We cannot preserve Bhitarkanika, a Ramsar site, without saving the mangroves. They cannot exist without each other.
But then Bhitarkanika is not the only Ramsar site which is facing the threat of prawn mafia. The famous Chilika lake, which was the first one to be bestowed with this honour, has also been grappling with the problem of encroachment by prawn culturist whose culture dykes stick out like sore thumbs in many areas of this vast water body. The lake has also been getting shallow because of such activities that is beginning to impact it in many other ways.
Prawn culture is the most horrid aspect of Chilika’s commercialisation with big money that rides on it spawning violence. The lake area has seen several incidents of firing and use of bombs by the henchmen of the moneybags who sustain the trade. Environmentalists in the past have even pointed accusing fingers at politicians and bureaucrats. With influential patrons the culture flourishes in Chilika despite routine anti-encroachment drives mounted in the lake from time to time. The same fate seems to have befallen Bhitarkanika.
(DISCLAIMER: This is an opinion piece. The views expressed are author’s own and have nothing to do with OTV’s charter or views. OTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same)
At least 1,757 salt-water crocodiles including albino species were counted this year along the water-bodies of Mahanadi deltaic region while the census figure recorded last year stood at 1,742, said Divisional Forest Officer, Rajnagar Mangrove (wildlife) Forest Division, Bikash Ranjan Das.
Though the estuarine crocodiles are also found in West Bengals Sundarbans and the Andaman Islands, the density of croc population is more in Bhitarkanika, he said.
The latest census figure of these animals, which was released by Forest department on Saturday, has come out with an encouraging trend of rising in the number of estuarine crocodiles.
Four giant male crocodiles measuring more than 20-feet long were sighted by enumerators. This included a 21-foot long crocodile that finds a pride of place in the Guinness book of record as the worlds largest living crocodile, the official said.
The breakup of crocodiles sighted is Hatchlings-620, Yearlings-325, juveniles-288, sub-adults-185, adults-339, said the census report.
The region is crisscrossed by innumerable water inlets, creeks and nullahs all forming the part of the Bhitarkanika river system.
The enumerators extensively covered vulnerable riverside villages where reports of man-croc conflict had reached a flashpoint in recent past. However, the sighting of these reptiles was few and far.
Four decades ago when the Government of India and UNDP thought of saving crocodiles, there were hardly three to four nests detected in the area while the population of salt-water crocodiles in Bhitarkanika area was estimated to be 95, including 34 adults. Now, the population has swollen to 1,757.
Since 1977, salt-water crocodile eggs have also been collected locally, and young crocodiles have been released in the creeks and the estuaries. "We have been able to reverse declining crocodile population and make the area a safe habitat for the reptile", said the official.
(PTI)
The national park receives around one lakh tourists every year, the official said.
"The restriction on the visitors was imposed to prevent noise pollution during the headcount exercise of the reptiles in Bhitarkanika," divisional forest officer of Rajnagar Mangrove (Wildlife), Bikash Ranjan Das said.
The national park was closed for the annual census of the estuarine crocodiles from December 26, 2019, to January 4, 2020.
"We are ready to host domestic and international tourists after a ten-day break," he said.
At least 1,757 salt-water crocodiles including albino species were counted this year along the water-bodies of Mahanadi deltaic region while the census figure, recorded last year, stood at 1,742, Das said.
Bhitarkanika National Park has reestablished itself as country's lone habitation corridor for albino estuarine crocodiles, according to the latest findings.
"There are large habitats for saltwater crocodiles in Sundarbans in West Bengal and large mangrove wetlands in the Andaman Islands, but those cannot match density and population of crocodile available in Bhitarkanika," crocodile researcher Dr Sudhakar Kar said.
The crocodile conservation programme was launched way back in 1975 and then, two white crocodiles had been counted in the Bhitarkanika water bodies, he said.
"Albino species were also earlier sighted in the past years. However, we are apprehensive of their mortality rate. As they have been re-sighted, the brackish water bodies of the national park have emerged as favourable habitation for white crocodiles," he said.
Das said visitors are required to submit identity- proof for entering the national park.
Boat journey along the mangrove-covered water bodies is a major attraction for tourists. On any given day, 350-400 tourists make the voyage on water bodies by boats and there would be no compromise on the safety aspect, forest officials said.
The private boats which are devoid of life jackets and other safety gadgets for tourists are barred from operating, they said.
The boats and vessels owned by the department are all armed with safety equipment, they added.
(PTI)
Nalitapatia village, lying on the fringes of the core area of the national park, will play host to the festival, said Bikash Ranjan Dash, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Rajnagar Mangrove (wildlife) Forest Division.
The objective of the three-day festival is to provide the much-needed exposure to the national park so that there will be a substantial increase of tourists, both international and domestic, he said.
With the increased inflow of tourists, the tourism potential of the place will be explored and people living along the villages on the periphery of the national park will reap economic benefits out of it, the DFO said.
Bhitarakanika is one of the best natural abodes for estuarine crocodiles and is said to house 70 per cent of India's estuarine crocodile or saltwater crocodiles, conservation of which was started way back in 1975.
Crocodile population in Bhitarakanika is estimated to be 1,698 as per the latest census.
According to Bhitarakanika National Park authorities, mammals found in the place are leopard, wild boar, jungle cat, fishing cat, hyena, sambar, striped palm squirrel, Gangetic dolphin and reptiles.
The reptiles found in the park comprise turtles including Olive Ridley sea turtle, crocodile, lizard, water monitors, python, and king cobra.
Around 166 species of birds have been spotted in the park.
Bhitarakanika is one of the richest storehouses of mangrove genes. Researchers have come across 11 of the 70 mangrove species, which were at elevated threat of extinction in the world, in Bhitarakanika, officials said.
Mangroves are regarded as natural barriers against the tidal surge and cyclones. Because of its rich mangrove cover, cyclonic storms from time to time have failed to make inroads into the wetland sites, they said.
(PTI)
Besides housing Asia's largest brackish water lagoon Chilika lake, the state boasts of a 482-kilometer coastline and eight major reservoirs, apart from several other pristine water bodies where surveys have ascertained the feasibility of setting up water sports and other tourism ventures, officials said.
The tourism department had in July last year organised familiarisation trips for houseboat and water sports operators, and investors from across the country at prominent destinations such as Chilika and Tampara lakes, Bhitarkanika and Gopalpur sea beaches.
Since then, the state received several proposals, and five water sports projects have been operationalised at Tampara, Gopalpur, Barkul, Chandrabhaga and Naraj (Cuttack).
The department has also floated tenders for the operation and management of floating restaurants at select locations in Chilika lake, said Tourism Minister JP Panigrahi.
"Odisha has always accorded priority to collaboration over competition, and our partnership with Kerala will help boost water tourism in the state," he said.
The state government has decided to introduce Houseboats in Chilika lake, Bhitarkanika backwaters and Hirakud reservoir, said tourism secretary Vishal Dev.
"Kerala having achieved a position of leadership in this segment, was an obvious potential partner in our quest," he said.
(PTI)
The tourism department has invited proposals from prospective applicants for organising day cruises at Chilika Lake, Mahanadi, Bhitarkanika, Satkosia George and Hirakud reservoir in Odisha.
https://twitter.com/otvnews/status/1269192552290357254
"We invite proposals for organising day cruises in the state. The last date for proposal submission in response to the expression of interest (EoI) is July 10," said the official.
Odisha has a long coastline measuring approximately 482 km, five major rivers, reservoirs and water bodies, including Chilika, the largest brackish water lake of Asia.
All these water bodies possess tremendous tourism potential, as per the EoI document.
To unlock the tremendous tourism potential of the state, the Odisha government is looking forward to developing day cruises at five attractive water bodies with private sector participation.
The Odisha Tourism Policy 2016 offers many fiscal incentives to projects like water sports, adventure sports, houseboat, cruise tourism project, aquarium, aqua-park etc., by way of investment and interest subsidy with an intention to promote private sector investments.
Fiscal incentives are also available under large revenue-generating project schemes of the Union government.
The state government has already framed the Odisha Boat Rule, 2017, to regulate water sports activities in the state.
(IANS)
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As per the authorities, only those tourists/visitors booking cottages in Dangamal for night-stay will be allowed inside the national park under strict compliance of Covid guidelines. No other visitor is allowed to enter the park during day time.
Reportedly, there are 16 cottages in Dangamal and people who have plans to visit Bhitarkanika can book cottages at the Odisha eco-tourism website. Sources said the cottages at Gupti and Habalikhati have not been included for stay now.
Now that the park has been thrown open to visitors again, special arrangements are being made at the park. Cottages and boats would be sanitised at frequent intervals, while visitors will ensure they wear masks and maintain physical distancing during their stay.
On the other hand, the local unions have opposed the decision of the authorities to only allow only the visitors booking cottages for night halt. Citing that such a decision will restrict locals, the unions have threatened to launch protests.
"Opening Bhitarkanika with a restriction on the visit of local people is an arbitrary decision. All animal and nature lovers would love to visit the park taking all Covid precautionary measures. If the government doesn't revise the decision, Bhitarkanika Surakshya Manch will launch massive protest," said Manch president Bhaskar Routray.
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While at Bhitarkanika, the country’s second largest mangrove ecosystem, the festival will be organised on the banks of the Baitarani River at Nalitiapatia village, at Hirakud, it will take place at Jamadarpali airstrip near the dam.
According to sources, as many as 15 luxury tents will be put up at Bhitarkanika for tourists during the festival. The tents will be equipped with 24-hour water and electricity supply. Parking facilities for the visitors would also be made near their respective tents. The event is being held with public-private partnership.
During the event, the district administration will be organising cultural programmes, food festivals, trekking in the forest and tour of nearby beaches for the tourists.
Locals, nature lovers and the intelligentsia in the state have welcomed the initiative stating that the move will give impetus to the struggling tourism industry.
“The festival will attract tourists to Bhitarkanika which will boost sustainable tourism and generate employment opportunities for locals,” said local resident Bhaskar Routray.
The tourism department will soon start online booking of the luxury tents, the price of which will be decided by Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC).
“The event would help to revive the tourism in the region affected due to the pandemic,” said Rajnagar District Forest Officer Bikash Ranjan Dash.
Similarly, the festival at the Hirakud dam will be held at the Jamadarpali airstrip near the dam.
Director, Odisha Tourism, Sachin R Jadhav along with senior department officials have already conducted an inspection of the location for the camping site and took a preparatory review meeting.
According to sources, several events and activities including water sports at Hirakud dam reservoir, cycling, boat ride will also be conducted during the festival.
Last year, the State Government had organised a similar festival at Chandrabhaga beach near the world famous Konark Sun temple.
The crocodile population in Bhitarkanika has swollen to 1,768 from 95 four decades ago, the report said.
There were only two white crocodiles in Bhitarkanika when a crocodile conservation programme of the Centre and the UNDP was launched in 1975 while the number had increased to 15 last year, researcher Sudhakar Kar, who led the census team, said.
"We were earlier apprehensive of the mortality rate among albino crocodiles but as they have been spotted again, it seems the brackish water bodies of the national park have emerged as a favourable habitation for the reptiles," he said.
As per the report, 593 crocodiles are hatchlings, 367 yearlings, 30 juveniles, 152 sub-adults and 336 adults.
Estuarine crocodiles are also found in West Bengal's Sundarbans and mangrove wetlands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands but the population of the reptiles is the highest in Bhitarkanika, he said.
Apart from the 16 white crocodiles in the wild, Bhitarkanika is also home to two members of the species living in captivity in the park's enclosure, including a 46-year-old female crocodile that shuns mating.
Bhitarkanika is home to the world's largest crocodile measuring 21 feet.
More than 70 per cent of the crocodiles were spotted in water bodies in the core area of the national park, reducing chances of man-animal conflict in riverside villages, the report said.
(With PTI Inputs)
Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary has been designated as Ramsar site in August 2002, which is given to wetland of international importance. It is a unique area with huge biodiversity covering different ecosystems such as the landmass, tidal water bodies of the deltaic region, estuaries and territorial waters of the Bay of Bengal along with their associated flora and fauna.
Environmentalist Jagannath Das is of the opinion that Bhitarkanika National Park has earned a unique status due to its biodiversity. "Not only to this sanctuary, but foreign birds also migrate to Chinchiri river mouth and Satabhaya area. A large number of birds have already arrived and we are expecting more winged guests to come this year," said Das, further mentioning that there is a dire need to protect migratory foreign birds from poachers.
"I am a frequent visitor to Bhitarkanika. The splendid beauty of this site has amused me every single time. However, this year the migratory bird count has come down in comparison to the yester years," said Rashmi Ranjan Padhi, a visitor.
On the other hand, Bikash Ranjan Das, Rajanagar Ranger said, "We are committed to protecting these species. We have deployed protection squads to check poaching activities, if any."
WATCH | Foreign Migratory Birds In Bhitarkanika National Park
https://youtu.be/RibPKDIgjO0
(Edited By Devbrat Patnaik)
Locals have alleged that several villages that are far away from the sanctuary continued to remain under its jurisdiction due to the faulty demarcation. As the villages still remain under the sanctuary zone, forest laws applicable in the jurisdiction continue to hinder the development works, they claimed.
As per sources, in the recent demarcation of boundary carried out after nearly four decades, only 52 revenue villages of Rajnagar block were excluded from sanctuary while about 226 villages of 25 panchayats of the block still remained under the boundary of the sanctuary.
The residents have questioned the criteria under which the State government could only exclude 52 villages from the sanctuary jurisdiction.
“More than 400 villages remained under the zone of the sanctuary. Barring 10 to 15 villages, other villages are not even near the forest area. Even villages situated 50 km away from the sanctuary were taken under its jurisdiction. It is very unfortunate as it will only hamper the development works in the region,” said Jagannath Das, a resident of Rajnagar block.
Former sarpanch of Khandianta, Kalakar Pradhan said, “The government must exclude our villages because the demarcation prevents us from various development works as the control fall under the rules of the forest department. If the decision is not revoked, residents of Pattamundai will launch a massive protest in the coming days.”
Environmentalist Hemant Rout said, “The government should demarcate only the area which is crucial to maintain the safety of the ecosystem in the sanctuary and the villages of Rajnagar, Pattamundai and Kanika should be excluded from jurisdiction.”
The forest department assured that it will propose the State government to carry out fresh demarcation of the boundary.
“The State government in February 2020 issued a notification in which 52 revenue villages have been excluded and eight forest blocks of Mahakalpada included in the sanctuary. No new revenue villages have been added,” said Bikash Ranjan Das, Rajnagar divisional forest officer.
“Some villages in Rajnagar and Rajkanika were supposed to be excluded but could not be done. If any such proposal is made in the future, everything will be done as per procedure,” he added.