Nainital, October 10 (Daily Kiran) : In Nainital, Uttarakhand, concerns are mounting regarding the declining bird population in the renowned Kainchi Dham area. Increased vehicle traffic, noise pollution, and environmental changes have prompted bird watchers and forest officials to raise alarms about the region’s avian diversity. Once filled with the cheerful chirping of birds, the hills of Kainchi Dham and Pangot are witnessing a notable decrease in various bird species.
Bird watcher Jagjeevan Singh Dhami expressed that heightened tourism negatively impacts local wildlife, alongside the human population. He noted that the once-common sparrows have nearly vanished from the Kainchi Dham region, with many birds migrating elsewhere.
Dhami explained that the hills of Kainchi Dham and Pangot are interconnected and have long been recognized for their bird diversity. Birdwatching activities have been prevalent here since the British era. The area was once home to several species, including sparrows and laughing thrushes, alongside a rich variety of flora. Numerous birds could also be seen around water sources.
Three years ago, visitors came to Kainchi Dham not only to seek blessings from Baba Neem Karoli Maharaj but also to enjoy the natural beauty and birdlife. However, the pressure from tourism has increased over time. The rise in vehicle traffic and human activities has raised concerns about the impact on birds’ natural habitats.
According to Dhami, the Naina Devi Bird Conservation Reserve was established in 2016, covering approximately 114 square kilometers and ranging in elevation from 1,000 to 2,611 meters. Given its biodiversity, there is a pressing need to focus on bird conservation in Kainchi Dham and surrounding areas. He proposed conducting a comprehensive survey to document the bird and plant species that were once prevalent and assess their current status. Such a study could help identify declining species and facilitate effective conservation plans.
Anand Lal, the forest area officer in Nainital, noted the heavy influx of pilgrims to Kainchi Dham. The highway connecting various mountainous areas also passes through this route, resulting in increased vehicular pressure and raising concerns about pollution and environmental impacts. He mentioned that Kainchi Dham is adjacent to the Naina Devi Bird Conservation Reserve, which historically boasted rich forest wealth. Previously, the area from Kainchi Dham to Pangot was significant for birdwatching, hosting nearly 3,000 bird species; however, a decline in their presence is now apparent.
Lal also identified noise pollution as a serious challenge. Continuous vehicle noise can disrupt breeding and nesting conditions for birds. He expressed concern over changes in the color of some tree leaves near the highway. Amidst growing tourism, there is a clear need to reform tourism management to protect wildlife and birds. Lal suggested promoting electric and pollution-free vehicles in Kainchi Dham to mitigate vehicular pollution.
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