GUWAHATI: To raise awareness about the abundant biodiversity of the Panidihing Bird Sanctuary in Sivasagar and underscore the critical need to protect its winged residents, an awareness campaign was recently organised at the Forest Beat Office of Charaguwa in the district.
Orchestrated by Aaranyak, a biodiversity organisation, in collaboration with the British Asian Trust, and support from the Darwin Initiative (UK Aid), the event witnessed the active participation of 47 students, local bird enthusiasts, forest officials, and environmental conservation workers.
The event provided a unique platform for students and participants to interact with researchers, including those from Finland involved in the Bird India Count for bird census.
Kicking off with a pledge-taking ceremony and an address by Ghanashyam Borgohain, President of the Panidihing Suraksha Samiti, the event was aimed to raise awareness about the significance of protecting migratory birds and their habitats.
Range officer Himangshu Gogoi, along with other forest officials, guided the participants during the bird-watching expedition, while Aaranyak officials Tibrajyoti Gogoi and Lekhon Gogoi facilitated hands-on learning experiences about the diverse biodiversity of Panidihing Bird Sanctuary.
The session featured a poster presentation and documentary screening by Tribeni Hazarika, a PhD research scholar and Assistant Professor of the Department of Zoology at the Arunachal University of Studies.
As winter descends upon the Brahmaputra valley, the Panidihing Bird Sanctuary becomes a thriving haven for migratory birds.
Spanning approximately 33 sqkm, the sanctuary boasts of a diverse ecosystem comprising marshes, ponds, and dense vegetation, providing an ideal environment for over 120 bird species.
Notable inhabitants include the majestic Sarus Crane, Pelicans, and various waterfowl.
As a crucial habitat for both migratory and resident bird species, Panidihing plays a pivotal role in avian conservation.
Efforts are underway to preserve this sanctuary, underscoring the importance of safeguarding fragile ecosystems and their feathered inhabitants.
