As the arrival of migratory birds in Chilika Lake approaches, Odisha's forest department has established temporary anti-poaching camps to safeguard the area.
Amlan Nayak, the divisional forest officer of the Chilika Wildlife Division, announced that 21 temporary camps are now operational in India's largest coastal lagoon.
These camps will remain active until the end of March, when the birds commence their journey back home.
Each camp is staffed by three personnel, aiding wildlife officials in patrolling efforts.
The majority of camps—11—are situated in the vulnerable Tangi range, with four located in the Balugaon range, and two each in Rambha, Satapada, and Chilika.
During a recent meeting with the camp staff, officials were instructed to maintain round-the-clock patrolling and exercise strict vigilance against poaching activities. Over 15 boats have been deployed for lake patrols to monitor potential threats.
Poaching activities traditionally escalate with the influx of migratory birds, as the meat of these aquatic species is in high demand in surrounding towns.
The birds migrate primarily from regions beyond the Himalayas, including Northern Eurasia and parts of Siberia, arriving at Chilika every winter to escape the harsh cold of their native habitats.
Nayak confirmed that the migratory birds have not yet reached the lake, with the first batch anticipated in the second week of October. Last year, the first group arrived on October 10.
During the previous winter, Chilika hosted over 1.1 million birds from 187 species, with no poaching incidents reported, thanks to rigorous patrolling measures.
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