Did UP Governor Anandiben Patel Explore Gujarat's Thol Bird Sanctuary and Assess Bird Conservation Efforts?
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Synopsis
Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel recently visited the Thol Bird Sanctuary in Gujarat to review crucial conservation efforts for migratory birds. Her engaging discussions with experts and tourists highlighted the sanctuary's ecological value, fostering a commitment to wildlife protection and sustainable tourism.
Key Takeaways
- Governor Anandiben Patel's visit highlights the importance of wetland conservation.
- The Thol Bird Sanctuary is a crucial habitat for migratory birds.
- It has been recognized as a Ramsar Site for its ecological significance.
- Community participation is key to successful conservation initiatives.
- Engagement with local experts enhances conservation strategies.
Mehsana, Dec 28 (NationPress) The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Anandiben Patel, visited the Thol Bird Sanctuary located near Kadi in Gujarat's Mehsana district on Sunday. During her visit, she assessed the ecological importance of the wetland and engaged with forest officials, local bird specialists, and visitors.
Throughout her stay, Governor Patel observed various birdwatching activities within the sanctuary and received comprehensive briefings from the Forest Department officials and local ornithologists regarding the migratory birds that flock to Thol every winter.
Experts informed Governor Patel that numerous species, including Bar-headed Geese, Greylag Geese, Dalmatian Pelicans, Common Cranes, Brahminy Ducks, Ruff, and Reeve, migrate to Thol from far-off regions such as Siberia, Russia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and China.
The Governor also took part in a nature walk in the sanctuary where she had informal discussions with tourists, exchanging thoughts about their experiences and the significance of conserving natural habitats.
She held in-depth discussions with the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Sakkira Begum, regarding future initiatives to enhance conservation measures for migratory birds and improve biodiversity preservation at Thol.
As part of her visit, Governor Patel participated in a plantation activity at the Thol sanctuary, under the national 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation and community involvement in safeguarding natural resources.
Covering an area of 699 hectares (6.99 sq km), the Thol Bird Sanctuary is centered around an irrigation reservoir that has developed into a crucial habitat for thousands of resident and migratory waterbirds.
This wetland serves as a significant winter haven for migratory species and has been officially designated as an Important Bird Area.
On August 12, 2021, the sanctuary gained international recognition as a Ramsar Site, highlighting its global ecological significance as a wetland.
Recent bird census data indicated a record of 55,587 birds belonging to approximately 74 species at the sanctuary.
To date, over 320 bird species have been recorded at Thol, including 78 migratory species.
The sanctuary also offers essential and critical habitats for 118 bird species, underscoring its importance as one of Gujarat's primary biodiversity hotspots.
Present during the visit were senior officials such as Deputy Conservator of Forests Sakkira Begum, Assistant Conservator of Forests N.M. Patel, District Supply Officer Biren Patel, Deputy Superintendent of Police Hardik Prajapati, Kadi Mamlatdar Madhavi Patel, the Sarpanch of Thol village, local leaders, and officials and staff from the Forest Department.
This visit reaffirmed Gujarat's dedication to wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism, with the Thol Bird Sanctuary continuing to play a vital role in the preservation of migratory bird populations and wetland ecosystems.
Point of View
Leadership engagement in such initiatives is crucial for fostering community awareness and action towards preserving our natural habitats. The sanctuary's recognition as a Ramsar Site emphasizes its global importance, and ongoing efforts to protect biodiversity are commendable.
NationPress
28/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Thol Bird Sanctuary?
The Thol Bird Sanctuary is a 699-hectare wetland in Gujarat, recognized as a significant habitat for migratory and resident waterbirds.
Why is the Thol Bird Sanctuary important?
It serves as a vital winter refuge for migratory species and has been designated as an Important Bird Area and Ramsar Site due to its ecological significance.
What species of birds can be found at Thol?
Over 320 bird species have been documented at Thol, including 78 migratory species like Bar-headed Geese and Dalmatian Pelicans.
What initiatives are being undertaken for bird conservation?
Governor Patel discussed several initiatives aimed at strengthening conservation measures and enhancing biodiversity protection during her visit.
How can the public contribute to conservation efforts?
Community involvement in programs like 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' and awareness campaigns can significantly contribute to conservation efforts.
