Imphal, April 18: The Manipur government has announced plans to develop a bird sanctuary in Khurungpat, located in the Kakching district. This initiative aims to enhance biodiversity conservation and promote eco-tourism in the state.
A senior forest official stated that the proposed sanctuary will cover approximately 227 hectares, which constitutes about 6.7 percent of the total wetland area. This site is ecologically significant, particularly for the conservation of waterbirds, including both local and migratory species.
According to the official, the 2023 bird census recorded around 69 species in the area, with nearly 40 percent being migratory birds. However, a notable decline in migratory bird numbers was observed in the latest census conducted in 2025, raising concerns within the state government.
Factors contributing to this decline include habitat loss, shrinking roosting sites, and increasing local unrest, which are impacting the wetland ecosystem.
In response to public demand, the state government has decided to notify the area as the ‘Khurungpat Bird Sanctuary.’
The decision by the state cabinet to declare Khurungpat as a bird sanctuary under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 is a significant step in Manipur’s conservation efforts.
This initiative was taken following persistent demands from local MLA Usham Deben Singh and support from organizations such as the Keirak United Development Association, Citizens Association for Rural Development, members of the Wabagai District Council, and the South Tentha Youth Development Organization.
In addition to conservation, the proposed sanctuary is expected to emerge as a vital eco-tourism destination in the region.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden Anurag Bajpai mentioned that the forest department plans to coordinate with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to facilitate development projects related to the sanctuary.
He stated that an ‘Eco-Development Committee’ will be formed, involving local villagers to promote eco-tourism and livelihood activities, ensuring that conservation efforts remain community-based.
The government views this initiative as a community-centered project aimed at integrating ecosystem conservation with sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. Bajpai emphasized that the conservation of waterbirds is closely linked to the protection of wetlands, which play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.
He noted that under the Ramsar Convention’s criteria 5, a wetland is considered internationally significant when it regularly supports 20,000 or more waterbirds.
Bajpai also acknowledged the contributions of local legislators, district council members, community organizations, villagers, and administrative officials—including the Deputy Commissioner, Divisional Forest Officer, and Range Forest Officer—in advancing efforts to preserve the area’s natural heritage.
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