Noida: The forest department organised a Nature and Bird Festival at Surajpur wetland to mark World Wetlands Day on Monday. The department also held a nature trail and bird-watching activities to encourage visitors to protect bird habitats.UP minister of state for forest environment and climate change K P Malik on Monday noted his appreciation for the rich natural heritage of the region, where migratory birds from thousands of kilometres away come to take advantage of the favourable environment.Expressing concern over the significant damage caused to nature in the race for material and technological development, he said that many bird species are on the verge of extinction. “A collective effort on the part of everyone is required to conserve nature and birds, and this was the purpose of celebrating World Wetlands Day every year on Feb 2,” he added.Malik noted that such events create awareness among the general public about conservation needs. He went on a guided tour of the wetland and inaugurated the photo gallery set up for the occasion, and also joined the tree plantation drive organised by the forest department.Addressing the gathering of school students, birdwatchers, environmentalists and govt officials, district magistrate Medha Roopam said that the Surajpur Wetland was an invaluable natural heritage not only of the district but of the entire state. “It is a living example of biodiversity, and preserving it is the collective responsibility of all of us,” she said.Later, talking to the TOI, she shared a detailed route map for development of the wetlands. According to the DM, the district administration is working on a plan with the forest department and GNIDA for water treatment of the Surajpur Wetland and to improve overall amenities in the area for a better experience for birdwatchers and visitors. The matter was discussed with the minister of state as well.“The administration took the initiative to improve the amenities and treat the water of the wetland for a better ecological environment and to make the place on a par with other bird sanctuaries in the state. This will be done in consultation with environmentalists, who will also be roped in on the panel, while the budget expenses will be taken care of by GNIDA,” she said.
